The first of 28 new aircraft ordered by the SA Air Force, worth almost R15 billion, arrived in Cape Town from Sweden yesterday.

The aircraft, which forms part of the controversial arms deal package, is a Gripen dual-seat multipurpose fighter produced by Saab. It was transported to Ysterplaat Air Force Base near Century City.

From there it flies to Bredasdorp for a test programme that will take about 18 months.

The time will be used to integrate electronic equipment in the aircraft, develop software and train pilots.

The first Gripen will be in service in 2008 and, in 2012, all the Cheetah C aircraft at Makhado Air Force Base in Limpopo are to be replaced by the more advanced and modern Gripen fighters. All the planes will arrive in South Africa between 2008 and 2012.

A Saab spokesman said: "It is the first fully operational, fourth-generation fighter and it is very advanced. Furthermore, it is very cost-effective."

He said parts of the aircraft had been produced by Denel.

According to Helmoed Heitman, Cape Town defence consultant and South African correspondent for Jane's Defence Weekly, replacement of the ageing fleet of Cheetah Cs was necessary.

The jets, which date from the '90s but have a '60s design and a '70s engine, are difficult to modernise.

"These planes need a lot of technical support and it is hard to find spare parts.

"In contrast, the Gripen hardly needs any support and is easily deployed," he said.

"It is a very viable and modern fighter and it is easy to modernise the plane by, for instance, integrating new weapon systems on it." The new planes will mainly be used for air defence and ground precision attacks.

"It can also be used to stop weapon-smuggling by air," said Heitman.

The new aircraft will be a valuable tool in peacekeeping operations and will strengthen South Africa's role as a regional superpower.

"South Africa can help in stabilising other parts of Africa and help them deal with threats," said Heitman. "With these aircraft, the country has the military potential to do so."

He said the Gripen was one of the best options of its kind available on the market.

The SA Air Force could not be reached for comment yesterday.

With acknowledgement to Cape Argus.