Saab has received a 1 billion Swedish krona ($104 million) order from the Swedish government for the production of a new missile launcher system for Gripen fighter aircraft. The contract, issued by the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV), covers both Gripen C/D and Gripen E models, enhancing the nation’s air combat efficiency and readiness.
The newly designed launcher, now entering serial production, was previously developed and tested under an existing agreement. Mounted on the fighter’s pylons, the system establishes an advanced communication interface between the jet and its air-to-air missiles or countermeasure pods, allowing for rapid and reliable data transmission during flight operations.
Saab officials highlighted that the order reflects Sweden’s continuous investment in maintaining a modern and adaptable air defense capability. Alongside the Gripen upgrade, the country is actively expanding its integrated air defense network with cutting-edge technologies and systems.
Notable additions include the RBS 70 NG man-portable air-defense system, featuring automatic target tracking and superior night-fighting capability, and the RBS 98 medium-range system based on the IRIS-T missile to counter low-flying aerial threats. The Swedish Air Force has also integrated GlobalEye early warning aircraft and completed its fleet of upgraded Archer artillery systems, strengthening both national and regional defense resilience.
