Saab has successfully completed the first flight of Gripen E, which is an advanced version of the Gripen C/D multi-role aircraft.

The test validated the fighter aircraft’s functions, including the ability to retract and extend its land gear.

Go deeper with GlobalData

Premium Insights

The gold standard of business intelligence.

Find out more

Related Company Profiles

View all

Saab Business Area Aeronautics head senior vice-president Jonas Hjelm said: “Today we have flown this world-class fighter aircraft for the first time. We achieved it with the fully qualified software for the revolutionary avionics system. This is about giving our customers a smart fighter system with the future designed in it from the start.

“The flight test activities will continue to build on this achievement with the programme on track to achieve the 2019 delivery schedule to our Swedish and Brazilian customers.”

The Gripen E, which was piloted by a Saab test pilot, took off from the company’s airfield in Linköping, Sweden, on 15 June and flew over Östergötland for 40 minutes.

See Also:

"Its acceleration performance is impressive with smooth handling."

Designated as 39-8, the aircraft is intended to replace the Swiss Air Force's fleet of Northrop F-5E/F Tiger.

How well do you really know your competitors?

Access the most comprehensive Company Profiles on the market, powered by GlobalData. Save hours of research. Gain competitive edge.

Company Profile – free sample

Thank you!

Your download email will arrive shortly

Not ready to buy yet? Download a free sample

We are confident about the unique quality of our Company Profiles. However, we want you to make the most beneficial decision for your business, so we offer a free sample that you can download by submitting the below form

By GlobalData
Visit our Privacy Policy for more information about our services, how we may use, process and share your personal data, including information of your rights in respect of your personal data and how you can unsubscribe from future marketing communications. Our services are intended for corporate subscribers and you warrant that the email address submitted is your corporate email address.

Saab experimental test pilot Marcus Wandt said: “The flight was just as expected, with the aircraft performance matching the experience in our simulations. Its acceleration performance is impressive with smooth handling." 

The 15.2m-long Gripen E can travel at a maximum speed of Mach 2 at high altitude, while the speed of the aircraft at low altitude is 1,400km/h.

The ten pylon stations allow the one-seater aircraft to carry reconnaissance pods, weapons and external fuel tanks.

Image: Designated as 39-8, Gripen E is intended to replace the Swiss Air Force's fleet of Northrop F-5E/F Tiger. Photo: courtesy of Saab AB.