Yesterday, Saab announced that Sweden has awarded the company a new contract worth 1 billion Swedish kronor to advance the development of new launch systems for its Gripen C/D and E fighters. The agreement, outlined by the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV), specifically calls for serial production of these components and falls under an existing contract for the system’s development and integration on the aircraft.
Lars Tossman, head of Saab’s Aeronautics business area, commented: “The launch system is an important part in order for us to continue ensuring the availability of Gripen and supporting the Swedish Air Force’s capabilities.” These launch systems are responsible for carrying the air-to-air missiles and countermeasure pods used by Gripen fighters in their various configurations. They are mounted on the aircraft’s pylons and connected through a sophisticated interface between the aircraft and its armaments.
This announcement comes just days after the Swedish Air Force confirmed the receipt and induction of its first Gripen E fighter, marking the beginning of the transition toward a fleet of 60 aircraft. As reported on October 21, the event took place during an official ceremony at Skaraborg Air Base — the future home of the Gripen E — and was attended by Defense Minister Pål Jonson. With this milestone achieved, Sweden’s fighter aviation gains a platform equipped with the new Raven ES-05 AESA radar, a General Electric F414G engine, and upgraded electronic warfare and communications systems, all supported by a modular design that allows for future capability upgrades.
Additionally, Saab could soon receive a major export order from the Ukrainian Air Force, which is reportedly considering the acquisition of up to 150 Gripen fighters to modernize and strengthen its fleet. Although no formal purchase agreement has been signed yet, Stockholm and Kyiv have already signed a Letter of Intent (LoI) — marking the first formal step toward the potential deal — and preliminary technical evaluations have already been completed.
Looking ahead to the future of Swedish aviation, the Swedish Air Force and Saab are also advancing work on the conceptual Framtida Stridsflygsystem (Future Combat Aircraft System) program, which aims to develop a next-generation fighter to eventually replace the Gripen. The latest updates indicate an intention to have a technology demonstrator capable of flight by 2027. This effort is supported by new investments, including an expanded FMV contract worth 2.676 billion Swedish kronor.
Images for illustrative purposes only.
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