Saab JAS 39 'Gripen' | SWEDISH MULTIROLE FIGHTER

Designed to replace the Viggen in a variety of roles, the Saab JAS 39 Gripen (griffin) will form the core of Swedish air power well into the 21st century. Also this multi-role fighter received some export orders. Developed by Saab Military Aircraft and marketed jointly by Saab and BAE Systems, the Gripen is a fourth-generation lightweight multi-role combat aircraft that features a delta-canard configuration coupled with a digital fly-by-wire control system. Power is provided by a modified version of the proven F404J turbofan, developed and produced by Volvo Glygmotor and fitted with a new afterburner. Unlike the Viggen, the JAS 39A lacks a thrust reverser but still possess excellent short-field capability. Ericsson developed the JAS 39&advanced multi-mode, pulse-Doppler PS-05/A radar. Gripen also features a wide-angle holographic HUD and a podded FLIR for attack and reconnaissance missions. Five prototypes and 30 production aircraft were initially ordered, the first prototype making its maiden flight in 1988. In June 1992 a second batch of 110 aircraft, including 14 JAS 39B two-seaters, was ordered. Problems with the flight control software resulted in the loss of two prototypes and the first production JAS 39A, with consequent delays to in-service date while software upgrades were developed. Eventually, 2 Divisionen of F7 at Satenas was declared combat-ready on the JAS 39A in late 1997. Swedish defence cuts in 2000 have reduced the final number of Gripen...