One of the advantages of the Gripen has always been that it is a relatively lightweight design, which meant the F404 was sufficient for the job. Now with the NG development it can carry more fuel and a heavier load, thanks to the F414. But if you make it carrier capable, the structural and gear strengthening means it gains weight. With the F414 that should probably be no problem, but I don't expect NG-type load configs. Its mission config will be much more like the original Gripen then, which is what... two self-defence IR, two BVRAAMs, two Mavericks or some AShM like the RBS-15 and maybe one centre line tank max? Still for Brazil/India that might just be what they are looking for. I am not so sure about Brazil's need for it though. And India, well if the MiG-29K lives up to its promises and that new AESA proves to be a success, then I suppose it's much more interesting for them to have HAL build more MiG-29Ks. But there seems to be a real desire in India to get 'into bed' so to speak with US manufacturers. At least they recognize that the naval LCA won't be happening. Sure they say 'in the future', but this RfI tells me it won't be happening anymore. Ah well, who knows.