Gripen F completes its first flight
Saab has marked a significant milestone with the successful completion of the first flight of the Gripen F, a two-seat variant of the Gripen E. The aircraft took off at 09:40 local time from Saab’s airfield in Linköping, Sweden, remaining airborne for a duration of 40 minutes.
This inaugural flight was conducted by Saab’s chief test pilot, Jakob Högberg, alongside Brazilian Air Force test pilot Lieutenant Colonel Aviator Abdon de Rezende Vasconcelos. The flight successfully verified the functionality of the aircraft’s core systems as well as its initial flight capabilities.
“This first flight represents an important step forward for both Saab and the Brazilian Air Force. Seeing Gripen F take to the skies is particularly significant for all the Swedish and Brazilian teams whose years of engineering work have helped turn this aircraft into a reality. It is designed to accelerate pilot training while enhancing operational performance in advanced combat missions,” stated Lars Tossman, head of Saab’s aeronautics business area.
With the completion of this mission, the Gripen F advances into the airborne phase of its test campaign. Following initial production acceptance flights, the program will enter a progressive envelope expansion phase, clearing the aircraft’s full performance limits—this includes speed, altitude, G-load, and angle of attack—incrementally. Concurrently, the evaluation of tactical capabilities and rear cockpit functions specific to the two-seat configuration will take place.
The Gripen F is the product of a strategic partnership between Brazil and Sweden, augmented by substantial technology transfer completed under the Brazilian Gripen Programme. Over 350 Brazilian engineers, technicians, and pilots have been involved in training activities pertaining to the development, production, flight testing, and maintenance of the aircraft.
As the launch customer, Brazil actively contributed to the co-development of this two-seat variant, fostering direct industrial participation and ensuring long-term cooperation.
The campaign will proceed from Saab’s Flight Test Centre in Sweden. Upon completion of the planned activities and aircraft acceptance procedures, preparations will begin for the Gripen F’s delivery to the Brazilian Air Force.
See video from the first flight here.
Contact
Saab’s Press Centre
+46 (0)734 180 018
About Saab:
Saab is a leading defence and security company with an enduring purpose: to help nations keep their people and society safe. Empowered by its 28,000 talented personnel, Saab consistently pushes the boundaries of technology to create a safer and more sustainable world. The company designs, manufactures, and maintains advanced systems in aeronautics, weapons, command and control, sensors, and underwater systems. Saab is headquartered in Sweden and has major operations globally, contributing to the domestic defence capabilities of several nations.
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Sverige
