Gripen demonstrates the way ahead

A demonstrator programme and the upgrade of 31 aircraft to the latest standard will keep Gripen at the leading edge well beyond 2040. The Swedish Government decision will contribute to a positive future for Gripen.

The Swedish Government has decided to make further investments in Gripen, including a demonstrator programme. The aim is to demonstrate a range of future technologies and capabilities to ensure that Gripen will remain at the leading edge of fighter aircraft performance. The investments also include an upgrade of 31 aircraft to the latest standard, thereby creating a unified fleet for the Swedish Air Force.

For Saab Aerostructures the investment made by the Swedish Government is good news.
“This is a very positive decision for us. We will manufacture new fuselages for the 31 aircraft that will be upgraded and we will also have an important role in the Gripen demonstrator programme with our expertise within aerostructures, says Pontus Kallén, Senior Vice President and Managing Director.”

The flying platform, Gripen Demo, includes several new features, such as a new engine with increased thrust, an AESA radar, increased range, new landing gear, increased weapons and payload capabilities and new generation avionics structures. An avionic rig will also be developed within the programme.

The plans for a demonstrator programme for Gripen were launched in June this year, during the Paris Air Show. With the order from the Swedish Defence Material Administration Saab can start the development of the demonstrator programme. The order also includes an upgrade of 31 Swedish Air Force Gripen A/B to the C/D version.

Back to CNB 4/2007