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Saab Global

Saab 32 Lansen

2 min read

The development of Saab's 1150 project, which eventually became the Saab 32 Lansen, began in earnest in 1948. The aircraft had twin-seats, low wings and was intended as an attack aircraft to replace the B 18.

Lansen was Saab's first system aircraft with a highly sophisticated electronics system for its time, including radar. The attack version, A 32A, and surveillance version, S 32C, had more or less the same electronics system, but S 32C had various surveillance cameras instead of the attack version's arsenal of weaponry. The J 32C, a night and all-weather attack aircraft, was to all intents a new aircraft with a considerably more powerful engine and new weapons system.

A total of 454 Lansen aircraft were delivered to the Swedish Air Force between 1956 and 1960, providing many years of reliable service. After serving time in the front line, around 20 J 32B aircraft were converted into target and jamming aircraft, while others were used for various development trials. Three Lansens are still flying in 2012.

The Lansen served exclusively in the Swedish Air Force and is represented at a number of museums in Sweden and abroad.

Data and performance
Engine: RR Avon Mk 47A/RM 6A, 6,520 hp with afterburner
Max. take-off weight: 13,500 kg
Max. speed: 1,125 km/h
Max. altitude: 16,000 m