We are getting closer
First Gripen E Swedish Air Force wing announced
The Chief of the Swedish of Air Force recently announced Skaraborg Air Force Wing (F7) as first within the Swedish Air Force to receive Gripen E. Flight tests and preparations are ongoing in parallel at the Swedish and Brazilian Air Force’s and at Saab to secure an effective and smooth introduction of the aircraft.
The test programme is proceeding according to plan and is moving at full speed. Before the end of the year the delivery phase of the first Gripen E aircraft, four to Brazil and two to Sweden, will begin. The delivery phase includes series of complex processes as well as hand-over activities with the authorities and customers.
“Sharper and more dangerous”
“In a deteriorating geopolitical environment the Air Force must remain relevant in Sweden’s air defence also in the future. Increased capability with Jas 39 E Gripen secure future relevance and makes a great Air Force even better. Gripen E gives us a sharper, more dangerous edge and creates more problems for adversaries says Carl-Johan Edström, the Swedish Chief of Air Force, at the announcement.
With the delivery getting closer and closer and the flight envelope expands continuously, the flight tests are in an intense phase with nine aircraft ready and more to come before the end of the year. Right now tests with different configurations are being conducted with both test and serial produced Gripen E aircrafts, for example different air-to-air configurations and heavier attack and reconnaissance configurations are up next. In parallel, tests with tactical systems are being given higher and higher priority. In addition to tests with individual sensors, primarily focusing on radar and EW systems, collaboration and fusion between all sensors, decision support and presentation are also tested. Further on intensified work to verify weapons and external loads will take place, which will involve a number of annual trial campaigns on the Vidsel Test Range in the northern part of Sweden.
Stabile and mature product
“The announcement of Skaraborg Air Force Wing (F7) as the wing that will introduce Gripen E into the Air Force feels exciting. It proofs that we are getting closer to the delivery phase. Thanks to a tremendous effort from all employees at Saab and an excellent collaboration with our customers, we now have a stabile platform and mature product,” says Jonas Hjelm, Senior Vice President & Head of Aeronautics.
Link to SwAF announcement in Swedish