History
To be able to navigate with confidence and accuracy when GPS is unavailable for a long time is a game-changing capability for a fighter pilot. It sounds like a challenge - for others. Saab have studied and tested image-based and terrain navigation techniques and now propose new technology for powerful tactical navigation capability in GPS-denied environments.
The Swedish of Air Force announced that Skaraborg Air Force Wing (F7) will be first within the Swedish Air Force to receive the Gripen E. Flight tests and preparations are ongoing in parallel at both the Swedish Air Force and at Saab to make the introduction of the aircraft as effective and smooth as possible. Together with the Swedish and Brazilian customers, Saab conduct flight tests with Gripen E that is proceeding according to plan and is moving at full speed. Before the year is over the delivery phase of the six first Gripen E aircraft will start. The phase includes many activities such as shipment, final certification activities as well as hand-over activities with the authorities and customers. The first Gripen E will arrive at Skaraborg Air Force Wing (F7) in 2025.
Three Brazilian system and software engineers are advancing on the integration between VOR (VHF Omnidirecional Range Equipment) and TACAN/DME (Tactical Air Navigation/Distance Measuring Equipment), the last one being a unique feature to Brazilian Air Force’s F-39 Gripen. All the work is done from Gripen Design and Development Network (GDDN). This is an important hub for technology transfer, located at the Embraer facilities, in Gavião Peixoto, in the state of São Paulo.
Digitization of industrial activities in order to improve processes and increase productivity is a hot topic. At Saab's Aerostructures Plant in Brazil, located in São Bernardo do Campo (SP), it is no different. The factory, responsible for producing six different aerostructure packages for Gripen, a new fighter of the Brazilian Air Force, uses digital technology in the manufacturing process through a Model Based-Definition method (MBD).
While the Brazilian Gripen is currently taking part in flight test activitites at the Gripen Flight Test Center at Embraer in Gavião Peixoto (SP), the pilots of the Brazilian Air Force (FAB) are participating in the preparations in Sweden. Read here about the training of Major Abdon.