Sweden has taken a significant step to enhance the operational capabilities of its air force by ordering a new missile launch system from the defense company Saab, specifically for its Gripen fighter jets. The contract, valued at 1 billion Swedish krona (approximately $104 million), was placed by the Swedish defense procurement agency and encompasses the series production of the launcher for both the existing Gripen C/D models as well as the newer Gripen E variants.
This new missile launch system has already undergone development and testing under a prior agreement, and the recent order has now initiated full-scale production. The cutting-edge launcher is designed to be mounted on the aircraft’s weapon pylons and will facilitate a more sophisticated connection between the Gripen jets and their air-to-air missiles or countermeasure pods. This enhancement promises to enable quicker and more reliable data exchange during missions, a crucial factor in modern combat scenarios.
Lars Tossman, the head of Saab’s Aeronautics business area, highlighted the importance of this upgrade, stating that it is vital for maintaining the readiness and operational capability of the Swedish Air Force’s Gripen fleet. He emphasized that the launch system plays a critical role in ensuring the continued availability and effectiveness of the Gripen aircraft in various combat situations.
In alignment with this development, Sweden has been accelerating upgrades throughout its air defense network in recent years, leading to the deployment of several new systems. One notable addition is Saab’s RBS 70 NG man-portable air-defense system, which has been introduced to replace older models and boasts enhanced capabilities for night operations and automatic target tracking.
Moreover, the integration of the RBS 98 medium-range air defense system, based on the IRIS-T missile, has fortified the Swedish Army’s defenses against low-flying threats, including cruise missiles and drones. The country has also expanded its surveillance capabilities with the commissioning of new GlobalEye airborne early warning and control aircraft, enhancing both air and maritime radar coverage.
In addition to these enhancements, Sweden has received the final set of upgraded Archer artillery systems from BAE Systems Bofors, further solidifying its commitment to modernizing its military infrastructure and ensuring robust defense preparedness for future challenges.
