Saab received an order from the Swedish Defense Materiel Administration (FMV) concerning the continuation of conceptual studies for the development of future next-generation air combat systems. The contract period is 2024-2025.
The activities concern studies, technology development and preparation of demonstrators. The aim is to lay the groundwork for a future decision on how to cope with the supply of fighter aircraft capability after 2040. The aim is to cope with a future threat scenario.
“This is an important step in clarifying technology choices and commercial options before deciding how material will be supplied to future fighter aircraft capability. Given the long development timescales and the decisions to be made, it is good that the work is starting now. It is also natural for the aerospace industry to participate with its expertise in this phase,” says Lars Helmrich, head of FMV’s Aerospace business area.
Manned and unmanned solutions will be studied in a “system-of-systems” perspective. Saab will work closely with FMV, the Swedish Armed Forces, the Swedish Defense Research Agency, GKN Aerospace and other industrial partners.
Saab #FCAS Unmanned supersonic ‘Loyal Wingman’ stealth concept. Focus: High-speed BVR. Wind tunnel tests Dec 2021.
Internally funded. Time reduced through additive manufacturing & @KTHuniversity wind tunnel. Costs down by 90%. Fin-less version also tested. Pics: Saab AB, ICAS 22 pic.twitter.com/AhFhjLGd5b— Gripen News (@GripenNews) February 7, 2024
“Saab is in a strong position, and having recently developed Gripen E and GlobalEye we have the advanced technology and engineering know-how to take the future fighter concept forward. This means we will continue delivering innovative solutions to meet the future operational needs of the Swedish Armed Forces and other customers,” says Lars Tossman, head of Saab’s business area Aeronautics.
This is the second order for concept studies received by Saab for the development of the future replacement for the Swedish Gripen fighters, which should have been displaced in the Swedish Air Force (Flygvapnet) squadrons by the 2040s, with a new-generation technological solution.
The Gripen C/Ds will be regularly upgraded to maintain their operational capability and perform side-by-side with the more modern Gripen E, until they are replaced by Saab’s future air combat systems.
