Saab JAS 39 Gripen
The Saab JAS 39 Gripen is a Swedish single-engine light multirole fighter. Its JAS designation reflects its three intended roles: fighter, attack and reconnaissance.[1]
Development
Sweden launched the Gripen programme to replace the Saab 35 Draken and Saab 37 Viggen with one smaller and more economical aircraft. The first prototype flew in 1988, and the type entered service in 1996 after flight-control problems in early testing were corrected.
The initial A/B models were followed by NATO-compatible C/D aircraft. The substantially revised Gripen E/F has a larger airframe, more powerful engine, increased fuel, new radar and expanded electronic-warfare system.[2]
Design
Gripen uses a delta wing, canards and digital flight controls. It was designed to operate from short, dispersed road bases with small ground crews, reflecting Sweden’s defensive strategy. Rapid turnaround and modular avionics are central features.
The aircraft can use a broad range of European, American and South African weapons. Gripen E adds an active electronically scanned array radar, infrared search-and-track sensor and redesigned cockpit.
Operational history
Gripen has performed Swedish air-defence and reconnaissance duties and NATO air-policing deployments. South African aircraft supported national and regional security tasks, while Hungarian and Czech fleets have undertaken Baltic and Icelandic air policing.
Brazil selected Gripen E/F for its F-39 programme and participates in production and development. Sweden is also expanding its Gripen E force while retaining upgraded Gripen C/D aircraft.
Variants and operators
The aircraft family includes JAS 39A/B; JAS 39C/D; Gripen E/F. Equipment, weapons and mission systems differ among production blocks and national fleets.
Principal or notable users include Swedish Air Force; Brazilian Air Force; South African Air Force; Hungarian Air Force; other operators. Some operators have retired early versions while others continue upgrades or new procurement.[1]
Specifications
Published performance figures depend on configuration, fuel, altitude and mission profile. Representative figures for the family include a maximum speed of Mach 2 and a range of Approximately 3,200 km ferry range. The usual crew is 1 or 2, and power is provided by 1 × Volvo RM12 on C/D; General Electric F414G on E.[1]