Aircraft
Saab has unveiled its Gripen Demo aircraft during a ceremony at its Linköping site, and confirmed that the future capabilities demonstrator will use an active electronically-scanned array radar to be developed under a collaborative venture between Saab Microwave Systems and French manufacturer Thales.
Saab will be responsible for leading the development and integration of the new AESA system, which will retain the back end of the Gripen's current PS05 sensor.
All photos © Craig Hoyle/Flight International |
Prepared under a programme also including manufacturers such as Honeywell, Meggitt and Terma, the Gripen Demo will be powered by an F414G engine now being developed by General Electric and Volvo Aero. This will provide 20% more thrust than the Gripen's current RM12 powerplant, and support the new aircraft's increased maximum take-off weight.
A new landing gear - moved into the aircraft's wing root - will also enable the Gripen Demo to carry more internal fuel, and two precision-guided bombs on new centreline stores pylons.
| |
|---|
Saab plans to conduct the first flight of the Gripen Demo aircraft later this year.
Related Flight content
Click here to subscribe to Flightglobal.com for more industry news and analysis.
FREE Online Marketing Training
Learn how to reach new customers through online advertising and email marketing, drive traffic through SEO and generate new leads online with Flightglobal's 'What Works Online' webinar series
Don’t miss you opportunity to be trained by the experts
Huge discount when you post-a-job online!
Advertise your jobs on Flightglobal Jobs for just £499 - usually £750! For more information visit our 'For Recruiters' section.
