Recently, the Swedish company Saab announced that it has received a new contract from the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration. The contract covers further conceptual studies within the program for developing a next-generation fighter jet. The total value of the contract is approximately 2.6 billion Swedish kronor, with a duration spanning from 2025 to 2027.
Under this contract, Saab will continue developing concepts for both manned and unmanned solutions, considering them within the framework of a unified system of systems. This includes Loyal Wingman–type drones. The project also involves research into advanced technologies and the creation of experimental demonstrators intended to serve as a foundation for subsequent practical developments. By the end of 2027, the developers are expected to present certain technologies and offer demonstration prototypes.
Saab will continue close collaboration with the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration, the Swedish Armed Forces, the Swedish Defence Research Agency (FOI), GKN Aerospace, and other strategic partners in the defense industry. The current contract represents an extension and continuation of a previous agreement signed between the parties in March 2024.
“This contract is the next step in our joint journey toward developing innovative solutions that meet the future operational needs of the Swedish Armed Forces and other customers,” said Lars Tossman, Head of Saab Aeronautics.
The overall concept for Saab’s planned air vehicle system is already public: the F‑series project unveiled in late 2024. The programme envisions not only a new manned fighter but also a fleet of unmanned platforms across three classes. Two of these are subsonic: a lightweight, economy-oriented variant weighing under one tonne, and a larger subsonic drone with a mass of up to 5 tonnes. The third is a supersonic, fighter‑class drone with a mass above 5 tonnes.
All F‑series platforms are being conceived as elements of a single, interconnected ecosystem rather than as independent units; they are intended to operate in close coordination with each other and as part of a common combat system together with an upgraded Gripen E.
At the same time, Saab is testing the Centaur artificial intelligence system on the JAS 39E Gripen, which is capable of conducting long-range training air battles in BVR mode, i.e. beyond-visual-range (you can find out more about this fighter jet at this link). Centaur is planned as a key control element for all F-series platforms, as well as for a new fighter jet that will be designed as optionally piloted.
Read also:
- Ministry of Defense Announces Delivery of Gripen Fighters to Ukraine
- Ukrainian PD-2 Drone Tested for Organ Transport
Source: defence-ua
