History
Space operations within Saab started in the early 60´s within the Aircraft division´s missile and electronics sector in Linköping.
Image: Jules Verne, From Earth to the Moon.
In 1983 the dedicated company Saab Space was formed to develop space business. The activities became focused on computer technology, a Saab group key technology. Gothenburg developed into the major office location and the Linköping branch became experts in mechanical systems.
Also Ericsson started space activities in the late 60´s. The space branch was developed within the MI-division in Molndal, experts in military radar systems. The division later became Ericsson Microwave Systems.
The space products; antennas and microwave electronics, were derived from a substantial expertise in microwave technology.
In 1992 Saab Ericsson Space AB was formed by merging Saab and Ericsson space activities in a joint operation with 60% Saab and 40% Ericsson ownership.
In 1993, a sales and liason office was opened in Washington DC, USA. This office has now been relocated to Los Angeles to be even closer to some of the major customers.
In 1995/96 "Schrack Aerospace" and "Österreischische Raumfahrt und Systemtechnik" (ORS), in Vienna, Austria were acquired. They were merged into Austrian Aerospace GmbH during 1997.
In 2006, Saab AB acquired Ericsson Microwave Systems and their shares in Saab Ericsson Space and a fully owned subsidiary, Saab Space AB was formed.