GRIPEN

In connection with Saab’s Gripen NG proposal to Brazil the Defence and Security Company, has expanded its planned co-operation with Aeroeletronica Ltda (AEL) of Brazil and now also includes development, production and long term logistics of the Gripen NG avionics package.

In 2009, Saab and AEL Sistemas signed a MOU (Memorandum of Understanding) identifying potential areas of co-operation under the Brazilian F-X2 Program.

Since then, AEL experienced a significant growth and capabilities evolution, which has opened new opportunities for co-operation between the companies. The existing MoU between Saab and AEL Sistemas has now been revised and further expanded and identifies projects relating areas of the development, production and long term logistics support of the Gripen NG avionics package.

Mr Vitor Jaime Puglia Neves, Vice President of AEL Sistemas S/A, stated that “I welcome the MoU between Saab and AEL Sistemas which represents an extremely important step towards the creation of a Brazilian Complete Avionics Package from AEL and respective CLS services in the Gripen NG aircraft. “

Saab’s approach to industrial co-operation covers a broad range of long term sustainable business activities focused not only on the product, delivering investment, job creation, technology transfer, manufacturing, technical support, training and scientific co-operation beneficial to Brazilian industry and the Brazilian nation.

“We are convinced that our offer is the best alternative for Brazil. Saab offers Brazilian industry a very competitive industrial co-operation package that exceeds the requirement of 100 percent of the order value”, says Saab’s Dan Jangblad, Senior Vice President and Chief Strategy Officer. “The industrial collaboration would create an even broader opportunity for Swedish and Brazilian co-operation”.

Facts about the Saab industrial offer to Brazil

In the response to Brazil Saab commits to deliver more than 175 percent industrial co-operation including offers such as:

· a broad industrial co-operation, not limited to the defence industry
· long-term industrial benefits directly relevant to Brazilian requirements
· the Gripen approach enables funding, Brazil/Swedish partnerships and export opportunities
· extensive opportunities for technology transfer creating national autonomy
· use of Brazilian technology for both defence and civil applications
· full support from our partners and the Investor network 
· job creation & sustainability

For further information, please contact:

Saab Press Centre,

+46 734 180 018
p....@saabgroup.com

www.saabgroup.com

Saab serves the global market with world-leading products, services and solutions ranging from military defence to civil security. Saab has operations and employees on all continents and constantly develops, adopts and improves new technology to meet customers’ changing needs.


 


 

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Under clear blue skies, a team of test pilots and flight test engineers from the Swiss Air Force and the Swiss federal defence procurement agency, Armasuisse, visited Saab in Linköping in Sweden to perform test flights with the Gripen E/F test aircraft.

On 30 November last year the Federal Council selected Gripen E/F as the preferred candidate to replace the Swiss Air Force's ageing fleet of Northrop F-5E/F Tiger. The Swiss Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sports (DDPS) was commissioned to start discussions with Saab and the Swedish Government to optimize Saab's offer. The negotiations continue according to plan and the test flights in Sweden are part of the on-going process.

Lt Col Fabio Antognini, Test Pilot Swiss Air Force flies Gripen E/F together with Chief Test Pilot at Saab, Richard Ljungberg. Photo: Stefan Kalm

The three day programme, conducted between 2-4 May, included simulator training and four test flights. The test flights focused on air defense and air policing mission profiles with different weapon configurations, which included IRIS-T as well as both METEOR and AMRAAM.

“We tested the flight performance simulating an operational air defense mission profile.The flight was packed with test points. We were able to perform them all. A successful flight”, Lt Col Fabio Antognini, Swiss Air Force

“We performed flight performance tests using an air policing scenario. We simulated a quick reaction alert and a maximum performance intercept to high altitude and supersonic speed. We tested the engine in the entire envelope and are pleased with the results.” says Bernhard Berset, Chief Test Pilot at Armasuisse.

Bernhard Berset, Chief Test Pilot VBS/armasuisse flies Gripen E/F together with Chief Test Pilot at Saab, Richard Ljungberg. Photo: Stefan Kalm

The Gripen E/F test programme is running according to plan. In the upcoming fourth phase of testing, Saab continues to integrate new leading-edge technologies which includes further enhancement of the avionics and displays. The radar system will also be further enhanced through the re-installation of a newer version of the AESA radar. The previous test phases have focused on areas such as flight handling, aerodynamics, performance improvements including the new GE F414G engine and increased weapon loads as well as the introduction of new sensors and new avionics in the aircraft.

“The co-operation between the two teams has been truly fantastic. We conducted four test flights with the Gripen E/F test aircraft, which performed, as ever, perfectly. We have really shown the growing capabilities of this aircraft and we demonstrated everything requested, including increased performance, handling and endurance,” says Richard Ljungberg, Chief Test Pilot, Saab.

Link to the Swiss Department of Defence, Civil Protection and Sports (DDPS) press release:

http://www.vbs.admin.ch/internet/vbs/de/home/documentation/news/news_detail.44427.nsb.html

For further information, please contact:

Saab Press Centre
+46 734 180 018
www.saabgroup.com

Kaj-Gunnar Sievert
Head Communication armasuisse
+41 (0)31 324 62 47

Saab serves the global market with world-leading products, services and solutions ranging from military defence to civil security. Saab has operations and employees on all continents and constantly develops, adopts and improves new technology to meet customers’ changing needs.

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Saab strengthens and improves the relation with Akaer through a financial investment to the equivalent of 15 percent share holding in the company.The expanded co-operation creates a strategic long term collaboration whereby Saab will also be part of Akaer's Advisory Board.

Saab and Akaer have been partners since 2007 when Akaer was assigned responsibility to design specific work packages for Gripen NG , and the existing partnership will now be further expanded with investment in Akaer.

“Akaer has achieved outstanding progress in aeronautical engineering and commercial achievements in a highly competitive industry. Together we can further explore business possibilities both inBraziland internationally. Our co-operation will also be strengthened by meeting technical and commercial objectives from the Gripen NG project related to current work packages,” says Saab´s Senior Vice President Dan Jangblad

Dan Jangblad, VP of Saab and Cesar da Silva, president of Akaer sign the agreement at Akaer’s headquarters. Photo: Akaer.

Akaer will stay independent and be controlled and managed by the Brazilian founder and management, and Saab will be part of Akaer's Advisory Board. This movement is totally in line with the new Brazilian law related to the Brazilian Defense Industry.

“Akaer and Saab share aero structural synergies and together we can meet the demands in aero structures assemblies to the aerospace industry. I am certain our partnership will guarantee both quality and long-term business," says Cesar da Silva, CEO Akaer

This investment is yet another important step towards further future design, development and production of Gripen NG inBrazil. Another important strategic aspect of this partnership will be the enhanced participation in various Brazilian aerospace and defense programs and wider access to the export market..

Brazilis an important and growing market for Saab, and with this growing partnership with Brazilian industry, Saab can together deliver key next generation technical and military capabilities providing for national autonomy in future design, development and operation.

Background

Akaer is a Brazilian engineering company that has been operating since 1992 in the segments aerospace and defense, having participated of the main programs in these segments in bothBraziland abroad, offering services of high technological content and innovative solutions. Its main focus is the development of aero-structures, as well as management of turnkey projects, offering complete solutions with a commitment and creativity through an experienced and trained team. Akaer is recognized today by the main actors of this segment as one of the main Brazilian engineering companies with global operations.

Saab and Akaer have been partner since 2007. In October 2009 an agreement was signed between Akaer and Saab regarding Akaer participation in the Gripen NG development program. The purpose of the agreement was to lay the foundations for good co-operation between the two companies and to support Saab's development and production for the rear fuselage, mid fuselage and wing including main landing gear doors for Gripen NG. Immediately after the agreement signature, a team of Brazilian engineers from Akaer were stationed inSweden to acquaint themselves with the NG project to participate in the development and to learn about Saab's requirements and methods in the form of technology transfer through "on the job training".

During 2010 Akaer facilities inBrazilwere prepared and certified for work activities related to Gripen NG development, including special security controlled areas equipped with advanced network systems connected with Saab inSweden. A team fromSwedeninitiated development work at Akaer with the opening of a local Saab office inSao Paulo. The Akaer team participated in the conception phase including design, tooling and industrialization and on the 20 October 2010 Akaer released to Saab the first 3D model and production drawing of the Gripen NG in Sao Jose de Campos.

For further information, please contact:

Saab Press Centre
+46 734 180 018
p....@saabgroup.com

www.saabgroup.com

Saab serves the global market with world-leading products, services and solutions ranging from military defence to civil security. Saab has operations and employees on all continents and constantly develops, adopts and improves new technology to meet customers’ changing needs.

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Two Royal Thai Air Force Gripen aircraft from the 701 squadron at Wing 7, Surat Thani, took part in Wing 41´s air show 19 April in Chiang Mai.

The event is part of the ongoing celebrations during 2012, honouring 100 years since the founding fathers of RTAF first took to the Thai skies. 

A Gripen C from the 701 squadron, piloted by Group Captain Jakkrit Thammawichai, during the flying display at Wing 41 Chiang Mai.

Group Captain Jakkrit Thammavichai, the 701 squadron leader, piloted a Gripen C in a flying display while a Gripen D was parked on static display on the tarmac.

This was the first time Gripen flew over the skies in Chiang Mai province. Around 30 000 visitors attended the air show.

The major jubilee event will be held 2 July 2012 at Don Muang airport in Bangkok. 

A Gripen C from the 701 squadron, piloted by Group Captain Jakkrit Thammawichai, passing by the RTAF Blue Phoenix team at Wing 41 in Chiang Mai. RTAF Blue Phoenix is the newly-established aerobatic team of the Royal Thai Air Force. 

RTAF Gripen C and Gripen D on display alongside a special-painted F-16 "The Century Falcon" and PC-9 of the RTAF Blue Phoenix team at Wing 41 in Chiang Mai with an Extra 300L aerobatic aircraft flying in the background.

Airbus Military A400M Grizzly 4 taxiing pass the RTAF Gripen C and special-painted F-16 "The Century Falcon".  A400M was on a Asian tour and participated in the 100th year of founding fathers of RTAF jubilee at Wing 41 in Chiang Mai.

All photos by Sukasom Hiranphan

Today – 2nd of April - is a doubly historic day for the defence and security company Saab. While Saab is celebrating its 75th birthday, Gripen fighters from four countries participates in the exercise Lion Effort that is currently underway in Sweden.

Saab was founded on April 2nd 1937 based on a decision by the Swedish Parliament thatSwedenshould have its own indigenous ability to produce its own fighter aircraft. Since then, Saab has been a key player in building an innovation-strong Swedish industry.

“Over the past 75 years, aviation has played a significant role in our business. Up until today Saab has produced more than 4,000 aircraft. Now we are using our 75 years of world class aviation and high-tech engineering to become a truly global player in the defence and security market,” says CEO Håkan Buskhe.

While Saab is celebrating its 75th anniversary Lion Effort 2012 is being hosted in RonnebySweden. Lion Effort 2012 will be the biggest Gripen exercise to date. Some 30 Gripen fighters from the Swedish, Hungarian, Czech and South African Air Forces participates. The Royal Thai Air Force participates with a number of observers.

“The family of Gripen users is big and is getting bigger, creating both operational and financial benefits for the users. Lion Effort shows how Gripen operators from different nations can co-operate, train and learn from each others experiences,“ says Håkan Buskhe.

Today, Saab has its own operations in 32 countries, on all continents with nearly 14,000 employees all around the world. The key to our success has been our ability to foresee change and make quick adjustments as well as big investments in research and development.

For further information, please contact:

Saab Press Centre, +46 734 180 018,

www.saabgroup.com

Saab serves the global market with world-leading products, services and solutions ranging from military defence to civil security. Saab has operations and employees on all continents and constantly develops, adopts and improves new technology to meet customers’ changing needs.


 

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Defence and security company Saab has received an order amounting to 128 million kronor, approximately 14 million Euro, from FMV (the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration) for system maintenance regarding Gripen.

In accordance with the order from FMV, Saab will undertake continual maintenance and updates for the Gripen C/D in compliance with the Swedish Armed Forces' long-term planning for the Gripen system.
Saab will also maintain the Gripen C/D system's operational capability. The order includes technical support, product maintenance, flight testing and flight simulator operation to ensure the operational capability of the Gripen system.
The activities will be carried out during the second quarter of 2012.

Saab serves the global market with world-leading products, services and solutions ranging from military defence to civil security. Saab has operations and employees on all continents and constantly develops, adopts and improves new technology to meet customers’ changing needs.

For further information, please contact:

Saab Press Centre, +46 (0)734 180 018,

www.saabgroup.com

The information is that which Saab AB is required to declare by the Securities Business Act and/or the Financial instruments Trading Act. The information was submitted for publication on March 26 at 14:00 CET.


 


 

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Major Jaroslav Tomaňa and Captain Petr Dřevecký of 21 tactical air base in Čáslav, the Czech Republic became the first pilots in the history of the Czech Air Force to perform air-to-air refuelling. After initial training at the Swedish Air Force base F17 in Ronneby, Sweden, the refuelling took place over central Sweden from a Swedish C-130 Hercules tanker.

Photo: Milan Nikodym

The first Czech Gripen air-to-air refuelling campaign took less than a week. Initial sorties were made in a two-seat Gripen, with a Swedish instructor. During the first day the Czech Gripen successfully connected to the tanker seven times. The first connections were dry-runs, followed by real air-to-air refuelling connections where fuel from the tanker was transferred to Gripen. During the rest of the week the missions were flown in single-seat Gripen aircraft without an instructor.

Photo: Stefan Kalm

"Air-to-air refuelling capability is important for the Czech Republic as the country is a member of NATO. This capability further increases and strengthens the cooperation between Czech Air Force and other Air Forces within NATO and it will as well facilitate joint exercises within the framework of NATO operations", says former Swedish Air Force squadron commander Robert Björklund, Saab Campaign Director Gripen Czech Republic.

Photo: Milan Nikodym

Yesterday the Swedish Armed Forces presented their will to upgrade Gripen, and a clear commitment to Gripen as the backbone of the Swedish Air Force was also expressed.

According to the Swedish Armed Forces the upgraded Gripen will have a larger airframe and a more powerful engine, allowing the aircraft to carry more weapons and more fuel, which leads to higher efficiency and endurance. A more sophisticated radar and improved countermeasures were also suggested. The upgraded version is commonly known as Gripen NG or Gripen E/F.

“We are delighted by the commitment to Gripen and pleased to see that the Armed Forces recommends a further development of Gripen. It is important that the Gripen system can be upgraded in a cost-efficient way to meet the future requirements of the Swedish Armed Forces, and I am proud that Saab can offer such a competitive alternative,” says Lennart Sindahl, Senior Vice President and Head of business area Aeronautics, and adds:

“It is important to remember that the Armed Forces report is a part of a larger process and that it ultimately is a matter of political decisions.”

For further information, please contact:
Saab Press Centre, +46 734 180 018,

www.saabgroup.com

Saab serves the global market with world-leading products, services and solutions ranging from military defence to civil security. Saab has operations and employees on all continents and constantly develops, adopts and improves new technology to meet customers’ changing needs.

In a press conference today, Swiss Defence Minister Ueli Maurer reiterated Gripen E/F as the optimal solution for Switzerland.  

After an initial evaluation document reached media, the Swiss Defence Minister Ueli Maurer called for a press conference to comment on the rumors that Gripen would not meet the Swiss Air Force requirements. Today, the Swiss defence authorities reconfirmed Gripen as the optimal solution for Switzerland.

On 30 November 2011, the Swiss Federal Council selected the Gripen E/F as preferred candidate to replace their present F-5 aircraft. Saab and Sweden are now in negotiations with Switzerland, optimizing the complete package and preparing for the acquisition of Gripen E/F.

Saab is confident that the Gripen package gives Switzerland what it needs in all areas, particularly in terms of a fighter that delivers the best price-to-performance ratio with a long-term and agreed development path. Saab is committed to deliver a comprehensive Industrial Package that delivers long-term benefits to all of society. The acquisition of Gripen will further strengthen the partnership between Switzerland and Sweden.

Gripen, in operational service with five air forces, is an unquestionable capable fighter system that delivers its tasks. It is a new generation, multi-role fighter aircraft which uses state-of-the-art technology. It is capable of performing an extensive range of Air-to-Air, Air-to-Surface and reconnaissance missions employing the most modern range of weapons. Gripen has been part of NATO’s QRA (Quick Reaction Alert) organization since 2005. The operating air forces have participated with Gripen in several large, international exercises (including two Red Flag exercises in the US) with very good result.

With approximately 2,000 flight hours in combat missions over Libya and delivery of close to 40 per cent of the total need of Tactical Reconnaissance in the NATO operation Unified Protector, Gripen is a very capable fighter aircraft.

Saab has been an innovation powerhouse for advanced defence and security technology for 75 years, with system knowledge and system integration as core competencies. Today, Saab has operations in more than 30 countries, while our solutions, products and services are sold to more than a hundred countries. Saab reported sales of SEK 23,498 billion and an operating margin of 12,5 per cent for the full year 2011.

www.saabgroup.com

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The defence and security company Saab is proud to announce that Hungary is taking a long-term strategic decision to continue operating Gripen and ensuring the continued development of its national capability. Sweden and Hungary are extending the cooperation for another ten years, until 2026.

Earlier today, the Swedish Defence and Security Export Agency, FXM, confirmed that Sweden and Hungary have chosen to extend their Gripen partnership for a further 10 years. Negotiations have been taking place in recent months and today, Monday 30 January, the new contract was signed by FXM's Director General, Ulf Hammarström, and Gyula Keszthelyi who is the Director General for Hungary’s Armament and Quartermaster Office.

Hungarian Gripen in the air. Photo: Victor Veres

“We are delighted that Hungary has taken a long-term strategic decision to continue operating Gripen and has thereby chosen to continue in partnership with Sweden and other Gripen operators," said Ulf Hammarström after signing the contract.

“The news that Hungary extends the Gripen contract by ten years is extremely positive. Once again it confirms that Gripen is one of the world’s leading fighter aircraft that meets the operational, technical and cost requirements of the market,” says Lennart Sindahl, Executive Vice President and Head of Business Area Aeronautics, Saab.

To the left sitting: Gyula Keszthelyi, Director-Generel of Hungary’s Armament and Quartermaster Office. Behind him Hungarian Ministry of Defence, Csaba Hende. To the right sitting Ulf Hammarström Director-General of FXM. Behind him Swedish Ministry of Defence, StenTolgfors. Photo: Stefan Holm

The partnership is a contract between two governments, where Saab act as a sub-contractor.

In 2001 the Swedish and Hungarian governments entered into a lease-purchase agreement, with a further modification in 2003 that included 14 Gripen C/D (12 single-seater and 2 two-seater aircraft). All aircraft were delivered in 2006 and 2007, and all 14 aircraft were in operation with the Hungarian Air Force by the end of 2008. The current contract was due to expire in 2016, but the countries have now decided to extend the partnership by another ten years.

For further information, please contact:
Saab Press Centre, +46 734 180 018

www.saabgroup.com

Saab serves the global market with world-leading products, services and solutions ranging from military defence to civil security. Saab has operations and employees on all continents and constantly develops, adopts and improves new technology to meet customers’ changing needs.

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Defence and security company Saab has received an order amounting to MSEK 500 from FMV (the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration) for system maintenance and development studies regarding Gripen.

In accordance with the order from FMV, Saab will undertake continual maintenance and updates for the Gripen C/D in compliance with the Swedish Armed Forces' long-term planning for the Gripen system. Saab will also implement studies regarding further development.
Saab will also maintain the Gripen C/D system's operational capability. The order includes technical support, product maintenance, flight testing and flight simulator operation to ensure the operational capability of the Gripen system.
The total order amounts to MSEK 500 with the activities to be carried out during the first four months of 2012.


Saab serves the global market with world-leading products, services and solutions ranging from military defence to civil security. Saab has operations and employees on all continents and constantly develops, adopts and improves new technology to meet customers’ changing needs.


For further information, please contact: Saab Press Centre, 46 (0)734 180 018 www.saabgroup.com

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Defence and security company Saab has received an order from the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration, FMV, for the continuous support of Gripen’s operational capacity. The order amounts to MSEK 127.

The order includes for example technical support, product maintenance, flight testing and running simulators to support the operational capacity of the Gripen system. Work will be carried out during the first quarter of 2012.

Saab serves the global market with world-leading products, services and solutions ranging from military defence to civil security. Saab has operations and employees on all continents and constantly develops, adapts and improves new technology to meet customers’ changing needs.

For further information, please contact:

Saab's press centre, +46 (0)734 180 018,

The information is that which Saab AB is required to declare by the Securities Business Act and/or the Financial instruments Trading Act. The information was submitted for publication on 22 December at 09.00.


 


 

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Two Gripen and personnel from the Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) are this week visiting the Langkawi International Maritime & Aerospace Exhibition (LIMA) in Malaysia. They have been invited by the Royal Malaysian Air Force.

The Royal Thai Air Force’s participation at LIMA marks the first time that their Gripen aircraft have been displayed outside Thailand.

The Royal Thai Air Force arriving at the Langkawi International Maritime & Aerospace Exhibition (LIMA) in Malaysia. Photo: Peter Liander, Saab AB.

The RTAF took delivery of their first batch of six Gripen fighters in February 2011, which are based at Wing 7 in Surat Thani. Pilots and ground crew have been trained in Sweden and the RTAF declared the Gripen system operational in July of this year.

Another batch of six Gripen is on order, which will be delivered during 2013. The RTAF also operates the Saab 340 Erieye Airborne Early Warning system and a Saab command and control system, which is the link between the Erieye system and the Gripen fighters.

Photo: Peter Liander, Saab AB.

The Swiss government has decided to select Gripen as its future multirole fighter aircraft for the Swiss Air Force.

Given that Switzerland is known globally for applying highest procurement standards and requesting state-of-the art technologies, Saab is both proud and delighted that Gripen has been chosen as the Swiss Air Force's future multirole fighter aircraft.

"The Swiss type-selection confirms that Saab is a market-leader in the defence and security industry and that Gripen is a world-class fighter system that provides the best value for money”, says Håkan Buskhe, President and CEO Saab.

The Gripen programme will create a long-term partnership between Switzerland and Sweden. Saab assures Switzerland a long-term strategic industrial co-operation aimed at creating sustainable high tech jobs, transferring technology and generating export business.

Saab stands prepared to start negotiations and await the next steps of the process.

Gripen is in service with the Swedish, Czech Republic, Hungarian, South African and Royal Thai Air Forces. The UK Empire Test Pilots’ School (ETPS) is operating Gripen as its advanced fast jet platform for test pilots worldwide. Saab is also delivering successful industrial co-operation programmes in Czech Republic, Hungary and South Africa.


Saab serves the global market with world-leading products, services and solutions ranging from military defence to civil security. Saab has operations and employees on all continents and constantly develops, adopts and improves new technology to meet customers’ changing needs.


For further information, please contact: Saab Press Centre, 46 (0)734 180 018 www.saabgroup.com

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At the Open Innovation week to be held in Sao Paulo from 23-25 November at the Grand Hyatt Hotel, Saab will exhibit its Gripen fighter simulator on the opening day as an example of Swedish innovation and state of the art technologies that goes into the making of Gripen NG.

The Open Innovation week is the first Latin American seminar dedicated to discussions on open innovations. The aim is to exchange information on open innovation practices in Brazil and the rest of the world, leading to the creation of new found networks and partnerships.

A number of seminars will be held including presentations from Pontus de Laval, Saabs Chief Technology Officer, on R&T Arenas and from Fredrik Nordh, CEO of Saab Ventures, as a case about platforms for spin-outs, incubation and venture capital investments.

 “We see exciting opportunities for our high tech defence and security products in Brazil and to develop new products together with Brazilian partners. When entering the Brazilian Market we want to do that in co-operation with Brazilian partners using their competence and their market experience. Therefore we are actively seeking partners and together develop projects for the future”, says Pontus de Laval.

Saab has extensive experience in close collaborative Research and Technolgy projects with a wide range of partners. Such R&T projects are often developed and performed within Neutral Innovation Clusters and driven by societal challenges. Such close co-operation has been the backbone in the development of Swedish high-tech industry, helping rank Sweden amongst the highest Innovation performers in the world. Many of our products including the Gripen Fighter has been developed and supported in this context.

“We want to develop such clusters in Brazil and connect them to our global cluster of Innovation Partners”, says Pontus de Laval.

For further information, please contact:
Saab Press Centre, +46 734 180 018,  www.saabgroup.com

Saab serves the global market with world-leading products, services and solutions ranging from military defence to civil security. Saab has operations and employees on all continents and constantly develops, adopts and improves new technology to meet customers’ changing needs.

Defence and Security company Saab continues to strengthen its commitment to Brazil with the appointment of Åke Albertsson, Vice President at Saab Group Marketing Unit, as Country Manager in Brazil. Åke Albertssons appointment is effective from October 1, 2011 and he will work in country to strengthen Saab's presence in Brazil which is in line with Saab's commitment to increase its activities and presence.

Åke will drive Saab’s initiatives to connect to Brazilian industries, the academic world and Swedish and Brazilian government owned institutions. Åke will also lead Saab’s initiative to play a larger role in the Border Control programs of the Brazilian Army and the Maritime and Surveillance program of the Brazilian navy.

Åke has a long career at Saab and has worked extensively with Saab’s commitment regarding industrial co-operation and transfer of technology to Brazil and other countries.

“Saab offers not only Gripen NG for the FX-2 procurement, but can contribute with world leading products, services and solutions that will enable Brazil to fulfil its obligations regarding defence and security and long lasting industrial growth. I am confident that with Brazil’s growing role in world economics and its hosting of world events such as the FIFA World Cup in 2014 and the Olympics in 2016 a cooperation between Brazil and Sweden and their respective industries would be beneficial for both parties”, says Åke Albertsson, Vice President, Country Manager Brazil.

Åke Albertsson, Saab Country Manager in Brazil.

Åke will be based in Rio de Janeiro, co-ordinating Saab's operations in Rio, Brasilia and the Sao Paulo area. Saab already has an established office in Brasilia and the company also initiated the CISB Research and Innovation Centre in Sao Bernardo do Campo last year.

Saab will drive the initiative to establish more than 100 research scholarships in Sweden for Brazilians seeking their PhDs, post-doctorate and senior research posts, during the next three years.

Sweden with its industrial companies has been present and loyal to Brazil for over 100 years. Saab, which is one of these companies, continues to invest and contribute to the biggest Swedish industrial hub outside of Sweden, which today employs over 50 000 people in Brazil.

Mrs. Radka Pchálková, who won a competition during "NATO Days" in Ostrava, visited the Gripen base in Čáslav, the Czech Republic, together with her family. The family was given a warm welcome by the Czech Air Force, which laid on a full programme that included a chance for the visitors to fly a simulator, sit in a Gripen cockpit, learn about the air base's trained birds of prey and a visit to the base's air traffic control tower.

During the "NATO Days" air show in Ostrava, the Czech Republic, on 24-25 September, one of the leading Czech daily newspapers, Mladá fronta Dnes, organised a competition with Saab offering first prize. The winner, Mrs. Radka Pchálková, has now spent a half-day at the air base in Čáslav together with her family.

"We are very happy to have the possibility to welcome Mrs Radka Pchálková and her family, to show our base and aircraft, and present our daily operations within the Czech Air Force to them. It is very important for us to have the opportunity to invite guests to inform about our capabilities and the way we serve our country,” says Col. Ondrĕj Rejman, Deputy Base Commander at the Čáslav Air Base.

Radka Pchálková and her family next to the Czech Gripen fighter. Photo: Saab

The day got off to a flying start, with Mrs. Pchálková and her family being given the chance to try the Czech Air Force’s L-159 Alca simulator and experience what it is like to be a pilot. Mr. Josef Pchálek had the opportunity to try on a Gripen pilot's Anti-G suit.

At the air base museum, the family were given a detailed history of the Czech Air Force. After that, it was time to meet the air base's trained birds of prey – hawks, eagles and owls –  that are used to chase wild animals away from the runway system. Hawks can fly at speeds of more than 300 km/h and can identify small creatures from a distance of five kilometres, and they are used to improve safety around the runway during takeoffs and landings.

Radka Pchálková with one of the air base's owls. Photo: Saab

One of the day's main attractions was obviously the Gripen aircraft, which the family had the chance to sit in. They also got to see close up the Czech L-159 Alca attack aircraft, which is produced by the domestic company Aero Vodochody.

"As the producers of Gripen, we are extremely proud of how the Czech Air Force, as a NATO member, operates the aircraft. We would like to be able to demonstrate this for the public, but entry to an air base is restricted for obvious reasons.  It is therefore very pleasing to have the chance to open the doors to the Čáslav base, for one family at least, together with the Czech Air Force. We hope that this has given the winners an unforgettable memory," says Bengt Littke, Gripen Programme Director - Czech Republic.

The day ended with a visit to the base's air traffic control tower, where the visitors got to see air traffic control "in action", with two Gripen aircraft conducting an instrument landing, followed soon afterwards by the takeoff of an L-159 Alca.

"I appreciate the great organization and complete program that was prepared for us. This happens probably once in life and I really enjoy this possibility,“ says Radka Pchálková.

Defence and security company Saab has received an order amounting to MSEK 261 from FMV (the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration) for system maintenance and development studies regarding Gripen.

In accordance with the order from FMV, Saab will undertake continual maintenance and updates for the Gripen C/D in compliance with the Swedish Armed Forces' long-term planning for the Gripen system. Saab will also implement studies regarding further development.

Saab will also maintain the Gripen C/D system's operational capability. The order includes technical support, product maintenance, flight testing and flight simulator operation to ensure the operational capability of the Gripen system.

The total order amounts to MSEK 261 with the activities to be carried out during 2011.

Saab serves the global market with world-leading products, services and solutions ranging from military defence to civil security. Saab has operations and employees on all continents and constantly develops, adopts and improves new technology to meet customers’ changing needs.

For further information, please contact:

Saab Press Centre, +46 (0)734 180 018

www.saabgroup.com (http://www.saabgroup.com/)

The information is that which Saab AB is required to declare by the Securities Business Act and/or the Financial instruments Trading Act. The information was submitted for publication on 2 November at 10.00.

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After 650 missions, almost 2,000 flight hours and more than 150,000 reconnaissance photos, the five Gripen fighters that took part in the NATO-led UN mission in Libya have now returned to Sweden.

The formal decision to participate in the UN mission was taken by the Swedish Parliament at the beginning of April 2011 and the first mission over Libya was flown on 8 April. After a successful operation comprising 650 combat missions, almost 2,000 flight hours and more than 150,000 reconnaissance photos, the Swedish contribution ended on 24 October. In total, 140 people participated in the operation based at Sigonella, Sicily, Italy. The five pilots have flown their final surveillance missions and are back in Sweden. The remaining personnel will return home this weekend.

More news related to Gripen and the NATO led UN mission

Today, the Swedish Defence and Security Export Agency (FXM) invited Croatian media to a press briefing in Zagreb to present the Swedish Gripen offer that has been submitted to the Croatian government.

Through FXM, the Swedish Government submitted an offer including the sale of either twelve or eight of the latest version of Gripen C/D. The offer also includes a support and training agreement for pilots and technicians.

In order to ensure that the Croatian Air Force remains operative without interruption when its current MiG-21s are decommissioned, Sweden is initially offering a loan of older Gripen-A aircraft until the delivery of the Gripen C/Ds.

Linked to a possible Croatian acquisition of Gripen fighters Saab offers an industrial co-operation package. Supported by the combined experiences and resources of its strong industrial network, Saab and the Gripen supplier base offers Croatia a partnership through a new generation defence and industrial co-operation programme. Saab is ready to commit to an industrial co-operation obligation valued at 100 percent of the contract value.

“Saab has an excellent track record of delivering on our promises in Czech Republic, Hungary and South Africa. We offer Croatia industrial co-operation programmes designed to create and sustain high tech jobs, delivering investment and generating sustainable export growth thus generating means to finance the acquisution of a new fighter system”, says Pierre Gauffin, Marketing Director Gripen Croatia, Saab.

Pierre Gauffin, Marketing Director Gripen Croatia, Saab, presenting the Saab offer.

Gripen is in operational service with the Swedish, Czech Republic, Hungarian, South African and Royal Thai Air Forces. The UK Empire Test Pilots' School (ETPS) is also operating Gripen as its advanced fast jet platform for test pilots worldwide.

September 1, 2011 saw the annual display of South African Air Power at the Roodevaal bombing range in Limpopo. The event was hosted by the Chief of the Air Force, Gen Gagiano and, in part, supported by Saab.

VIP's, journalists and high ranking officials were flown in and joined the crowd of officers, soldiers and other guests already seated on the large spectator stand.

The show opened with a keynote address from General Gagiano and a tactical run through of the upcoming activities by General Bayne, Director Combat Systems. The “enemy” was approaching from the north and the show opened with a dogfight between two Gripen fighters and an “enemy” aircraft. After that the helicopters arrived in force with troops and vehicles air dropped in to the battle, supported by Rooivalk attack helicopters. Hawk aircraft did strafing attacks and finally a four-ship of Gripen aircraft arrived and ended the “conflict” by putting 16 live Mk82 bombs into the target. An action packed hour was over and the South African Air Force had convincingly displayed its capability to defend the country.

The South African Air Force Air Capability Demo in images

Image: General Gagiano addressing the audience before the show.

Image: Gripen fighter at a low pass in front of the crowd.

Image: The enemy is close and troops are landing.

Image: Troop landing protected by Rooivalk attack helicopter gunnery.

Image: Troops in place starts shelling the target. Noisy.

Image: Rooivalk joins in with rockets.

Image: Gripen fly by after bombing the target and ending the display.

Image: The first Gripen attack. Two bombs on target. Look closely and you will see two more inbound.

Image: A final fly-past where Gripen demonstrates parts of the countermeasure capabilities by ejecting flares.

Images: All images from the South African Air Force.

During a flight to the Swedish support group in Kecskemét, Hungary, the captain of a TP100 transport plane (Saab 340) receives a request from the Hungarian Air Force, asking permission to conduct an exercise with the Swedish plane as the target. The exercise is part of a mission called Quick Reaction Alert, QRA.

A short time after passage into Hungarian airspace, two Hungarian Gripens are ordered to fly towards the Swedish TP100 by their air combat control centre. They carefully approach the transport plane from the rear. One of the Gripens remains at a considerable distance, where it can take action with its weapons systems if the aircraft they are to identify does not have friendly intentions. The other Gripen approaches and the pilot is tasked with identifying the aircraft and usually photographing it as well for documentation purposes. After completion of the exercise activity, the Hungarian Gripens leave the Swedish transport plane, which continues its flight to Kecskemét.

Image: Hungarian Gripen monitoring Hungarian airspace. Photo: Håkan Brandt, Swedish Armed Forces

QRA is equivalent to Swedish incident preparedness. For Sweden, incident preparedness has been carried out since 1952 when a Swedish DC-3 was shot down by Soviet fighters in international airspace over the Baltic Sea. This incident preparedness is a part of Sweden's territorial preparedness and also a part of the Swedish Armed Force's mission operations.

That which the crew and passengers experienced during this exercise is partially the result of the cooperation between Sweden, Hungary, the Czech Republic and Thailand. The Hungarian Gripens' pilots, air combat controllers and aircraft technicians have been trained in Sweden. In Hungary, the Czech Republic and Thailand, there are also Swedish personnel on site who provide their international Gripen colleagues with support for JAS 39 Gripen operations. Swedish Air Force Wing F 7 has both employer responsibility and the duty to operatively lead these groups.

Source: Swedish Armed Forces, Skaraborg Wing F 7 (link to webpage in Swedish).

The Swedish Air Force has awarded a diploma to Major Otakar Prikner of the Czech Air Force to mark his achievement of 1000 flight hours on the Gripen supersonic fighter aircraft.

The diploma was presented at the Saab stand at NATO Days 2011 in Ostrava. Czech Air Force Gripen pilot Major Otakar Prikner has recently reached 1000 flight hours on the fighter aircraft. The Czech Air Force has in total flown more than 12,600 hours with Gripen since the aircraft arrived in the Czech Republic in April 2005, following a lease agreement signed between the Swedish and Czech Governments in 2004.

“The Czech Air Force and its pilots are among the best trained in NATO, as proven by their outstanding operational performance on exercise, and we at Saab are proud that they fly Gripen. Major Prikner’s achievement of reaching 1000 hours is an extraordinary success, and it is a pleasure for Saab to work with such true professionals”, says Bengt Littke, Saab Gripen Program Director - Czech Republic.

Image: The diploma to Major Otakar Prikner was presented by Major General Anders Silwer chief of Air Staff, Swedish Air Force just after the fly past of Czech Air Force Gripens on September 24, 2011.

"On the occasion of achieving 1000 flight hours, I recall with gratitude the early days of flying Gripen in 2004, especially my instructors from Swedish Air Force who trained me to fly these excellent aircraft. To fly a supersonic fighter, one has to be hundred percent fit, so I am glad that my health has allowed me to fly Gripen continuously for eight years", said Major Prikner.

South Africa was the first Gripen customer to order the state-of-the-art ”Cobra” HMD ( Helmet Mounted Display) for use on their 26 Gripen fighters. The deliveries of the system to the front line squadron has now commenced and 2 Squadron in Makhado can now boast the first operational Cobra system in the world.

A HMD displays data directly onto the helmet visor, allowing the Gripen pilot to stay ‘heads up’ at crucial points in the mission. The Cobra is a binocular system that displays both air-to-air and air-to-ground weapons symbology, as well as basic flight data.

Selected to meet the stringent requirements of the Gripen, the ‘Cobra’ Integrated Display Helmet provides, all weather, all attitude operation over the full combat flight envelope. As a key component to the Gripen weapon delivery system, capabilities include weapon/sensor slaving with real world overlay of flight parameters, sensor data, target cuing and weapon status. These are designed to maximize effectiveness across the whole spectrum of tactical missions.

Image: Officer Commanding, 2 Squadron n, Lt Col Musa Mbhokota.
Photo: South African Air Force.

The Cobra will also allow the SAAF Gripen fighters to use the full potential of their IR-missiles IRIS-T and the future A-Darter, in close-in air combat. The HMD increases the with-in-visual range air-to-air capability considerably. The two first operational flights with the HMD were performed by Officer Commanding, 2 Squadron n, Lt Col Musa Mbhokota. The Instructor in the rear seat was Saab Test Pilot Robin Nordlander.

Apart from the South African Air force, the HMD system will also be integrated into Swedish Air Force Gripen fighters.

Saab will participate as general partner at NATO Days 2011 on September 24 and 25 at Mošnov Airport in Ostrava, the Czech Republic. 

Visitors will have the opportunity to see the Gripen fighter on static display nearby the Saab stand as well as a fly past by Czech Air Force Gripens shortly after the event’s opening ceremony.

“We are pleased to be returning to NATO Days as the general partner for the second year running, and we look forward to showcasing the Gripen on both static and fly-by displays, thanks to the pilots from Čáslav,” says Daniel Boestad, Saab’s Vice-President for Central and Eastern Europe.

Image: Czech Gripen Tiger. Photo: Milan Nikodym

The Saab manufactured supersonic fighter aircraft, the fully NATO interoperable Gripen, is in service with the Czech Air Force. Saab’s artillery locator radar system, Arthur, has been selected by the Czech army, and Saab has also been selected to provide public security systems for the Prague metro.

“Saab has a significant presence in the Czech Republic, with more than 120 employees, “ adds Daniel Boestad.

In February of this year, Saab signed an agreement to acquire Slavkov-based company E-COM, which develops and produces virtual simulators. E-COM has delivered many different simulators to the Czech army and has achieved export success to customers in the US, Germany and Singapore.

In the beautiful town of Sion set in the middle of the Swiss Alps, Gripen soared the sky at the Breitling Sion Air show this weekend.

Over 100,000 visitors turned out to view the air show highlighted by the dare devil stunt of Yves Rossi (the jetman) flying with the delta canard wings attached to his body and flying formation with two bi-plane Stearman aircraft.

Present at the air show were representatives from Saab, the Swedish Defence and Security Export Agency and the Swedish Air Force. The renowned Saab pilot Fredrik Müchler dazzled the spectators with his awesome Gripen Display, and brochures and giveaways were distributed to Swiss spectators which were highly appreciated.

Image: Gripen on static display surrounded by the beautiful Swiss Alps.
Photo: Anne Lewis-Olsson, Saab AB

Last week the Swiss National Council made a decision for the fighter procurement to be accelerated. Richard Smith, Saab’s Gripen Regional Director in Europe, explains:

- Gripen participating in the air show this weekend gave an important message to the Swiss authorities that Gripen is a serious contender in the replacement of the F-5 Tiger, he said.

Image: Besides air display Gripen were present at static display.
Photo: Anne Lewis-Olsson, Saab AB

A number of top officials were present at the show including the Chief of the Swiss Air Force and members of the fighter procurement committee.

A closer look on the Gripen air display performed at Breitling Sion Air Show can be viewed on YouTube.

On September 7 when flying over the Hungarian Air Force Base 59th Szentgyörgyi Dezső in Kecskemét the Hungarian Gripen fleet passed its 6000 flight hour. A formation of three fighters celebrated the achievement.

Image: Gripen in Hungary. Photo: MH 59. Szentgyörgyi Dezső Repülőbázis

After the formation flight MJG Zoltán Pintér, Air Force Commander and BRG Nándor Kilián, Commander of the 59th Szentgyörgyi Dezső Air Base congratulated the pilots, the technicians and the Swedish technical support team for their professional performance during the past years.

The Gripen fleet has been operational in Hungary since 2007 via a government-to-government contract between Sweden and Hungary.

- Gripen is a state of the art multi-role combat aircraft. Today we are happy to be able to congratulate the Hungarian Air Force for the flight hour achievement. Gripen is committed to the future of the Hungarian Air Force, said Ulf Hammarström Director General at the Swedish Defence and Security Export Agency.

The Breitling Sion air show taking place from September 16 to 18 will host a major additional highlight: The Swedish multirole fighter Gripen will fly in the Sion sky.

Gripen is a latest generation aircraft and one of the three contenders for the replacement of the F-5 Tiger of the Swiss Armed Forces. One of the Gripen aircraft will be on static display so that visitors to the show can get a closer look at the most modern fighter in operation today while the Gripen air display will be performed by Fredrik Müchler, Saabs designated display pilot for the past 13 years.

- We are really looking forward to participating with our Gripen aircraft at the Sion air show. This will be an excellent opportunity for us to demonstrate to the Swiss authorities and Swiss public the real and proven qualities of the Gripen fighter says Richard Smith, Saabs Regional Director.

Image: Frans Dely

Gripen is in operational service with the Swedish, Czech Republic, Hungarian, South African and Royal Thai Air Forces. The UK Empire Test Pilots' School (ETPS) is also operating Gripen as its advanced fast jet platform for test pilots worldwide.

Gripen has also been deployed in the NATO-led Operation Unified Protector for the last five months.

Operations by the FL 01 Swedish Gripen force in Libya are historic. For the first time in 50 years, Sweden contributed with combat aircraft as part of an international mission. The last time the Swedish Air Force saw action was in the Congo in 1961. On Tuesday, 6 September, FL 01 concluded its part in the mission with a medal ceremony. The approximately 100 military personnel that received medals were stationed at the air base in Sigonella on Sicily for about three months.

Attending the ceremony, which is the first in a series of many of an international character, were Minister for Defence Sten Tolgfors, Supreme Commander Chief General Sverker Göranson, Director of Operations Lieutenant General Anders Lindström and Chief of the Air Force Tactical Staff Major General Anders Silwer.

During the speech that the Minister of Defence Sten Togfors gave at the ceremony to personnel and their relatives, he emphasised the importance of the mission to Sweden:

"FL 01, you have conducted your mission on behalf of the Swedish Parliament and the Swedish Government. I would like to extend our gratitude and appreciation for the excellent manner in which you have carried out the assignment. Sweden's international missions are fully staffed by personnel who have chosen to accept the risks to their personal safety in order to protect the safety of others. This is worthy of significant respect."

Image: The medal bears the inscription OUP (Operation Unified Protector) Libya 2011.
Photo: Catharina Bergsell, Swedish Armed Forces.

Source: The Swedish Armed Forces and the F17 Blekinge Wing. View The Swedish Armed Forces official website (link to a Swedish website).

The Swedish company Saab, together with “Plano Brasil Maior” and “Ciência sem fronteiras” initiatives, will contribute with more than 100 research scholarships in Sweden for Brazilians seeking their PhDs, post-doctorate and senior researchers, during the next three years.

The research scholarship program will be coordinated by the Swedish Brazilian Research & Innovation Center (CISB) that was recently opened in São Bernardo do Campo and is a Saab initiative to connect industries, the academic world and Swedish and Brazilian government-owned institutions.

Image: The research scholarship program will be coordinated by the Swedish Brazilian Research & Innovation Center (CISB) that was recently opened in São Bernardo do Campo.

Industrial involvement in CISB will ensure that research scholarships have a clear innovation focus thereby contributing to strengthen both nations’ industrial bases. The close cooperation between academia, industry and public institutions (triple helix) to find new innovation challenges is a trademark of both CISB and the Swedish Innovation System.

“We expect that these scholarships are the cornerstones that will enhance and establish a long-term scientific and technology cooperation between Swedish and Brazilian institutions,” said Håkan Buskhe, Saab CEO.

Mayor Eduardo Cury from the city Sao José dos Campos, where the major Aeronautics and defence hub of Brazil is situated, has been visiting Sweden this week and yesterday he made a stop in Linköping invited by Paul Lindvall from the City of Linkoping.

In recent years the co-operation between Linköping and Brazil has strengthened tremendously and mutual interests in business development, science parks, and education were on the agenda.

Apart from a number of other activities, the Mayor visited Mjärdevi Science Park in order to understand how the science park works in supporting start-up and growth of new companies, its position in the regional context and in the international society.

Following Mjärdevi a visit was made to Linköpings University as since the late 60´s, Linkoping’s University has been an innovator, creating new degree programs and new ways to tackle research problems. The innovation topic has become of large interest in Brazil as one of their ambitions is to increase indigenous capabilities.

The mayor also had the chance to visit Saab and was briefed on Saab product portfolio as well as Saabs offer regarding Gripen to Brazil. The Mayor visited the Gripen Final Assembly line to see Gripen fighter in production and he also paid a visit to the Flight Test Department to have a closer look at the next generation of Gripen.

image: Mayor Eduardo Cury from the city Sao José dos Campos, Brazil, with his delegation invited by Paul Lindvall, City of Linköping Sweden, at Saab’s Gripen production in Linköping Sweden.

On 3-4 September Saab joined the 100th anniversary celebration of Bulgarian aviation in the Bulgarian International Aviation Festival BIAF 2011 in Plovdiv. The Swedish Air Force demonstrated the capabilities of the Gripen fighter, both in the air and on the ground, which was very popular among the 20,000 aviation enthusiasts that attended the show during the weekend.

Image: Many visitors came to visit the Saab stand at the Bulgarian International Aviation Festival BIAF 2011 in Plovdiv, Bulgaria.

In March 2011 the Swedish Government delivered a response to the RFI issued by the Bulgarian Ministry of Defence concerning the procurement of new fighters for the Bulgarian Air Force. The Swedish offer to Bulgaria includes eight new Gripen fighters, a flexible financial solution and industrial co-operation delivered by Saab.

During the weekend Saab and the Swedish delegation were honoured by the visits of Bulgarian Prime Minister Boiko Borissov, Defence Minister Anuy Angelov and Commander of the Bulgarian Air Force Major General Konstantin Popov.

"We are deligthed to take part in the celebrations of the 100th anniversary of Bulgarian Aviation together with our Bulgarian friends. BIAF 2011 has been an excellent opportunity for Sweden to demonstrate the real capabilities of the Gripen fighter in country", says Daniel Boestad, Vice President at Saab, Central and Eastern Europe, Balkans.

Image: Bulgarian Prime Minister Borrissov and the Chief of the Bulgarian Air Force Major General Konstantin Popov together with Ulf Hammarström, Director General Swedish Defence and Security Agency (FXM) and Saab's Daniel Boestad.

On the Saturday Saab organized a popular Gripen quiz for all BIAF visitors. Out of ten finalists, the top three were challenged in a mission in the Gripen cockpit simulator. After a thrilling couple of hours Ognyan Nyashkolov from Plovdiv was announced the winner and he was awarded with a personal cockpit demonstration by the Swedish Air Force.

Image: Ten excited finalists of the Gripen quiz together with their Gripen instructors.

Sweden will participate with Gripen fighters at the Bulgarian International Aviation Festival (BIAF) on 3-4 September 2011.

The Swedish Air Force will participate in the event with four Gripen fighters. SwAF pilot Martin Hansson will perform a stunning air display during both Saturday and Sunday. Gripen will also be shown on the static display.

Image: Frans Dely

Saab invites all BIAF visitors to their stand to meet the team and to learn more about the Swedish Gripen fighter. Invited guests will also get a chance to test their flying skills in the Gripen simulator.

Gripen is in operational service with the Swedish, Czech Republic, Hungarian, South African and Royal Thai Air Forces. The UK Empire Test Pilots’ School (ETPS) is also operating Gripen as its advanced fast jet platform for test pilots worldwide.

In March 2011 the Swedish Government delivered a response to the RFI of the Bulgarian Ministry of Defence concerning the fighter procurement. The Swedish offer includes eight new Gripen fighters, a flexible financial solution and offset to be delivered by Saab.

Representatives of Saab, the manufacturer of the Gripen fighter; the Swedish Defense and Security Export Agency (FXM) and the Swedish Armed Forces will attend the air show.

“We are looking forward to taking part in the air show and are proud to see the Gripen fighter flying in Bulgaria. It will be a show worth seeing,” says Daniel Boestad, Vice President at Saab, Central and Eastern Europe, Balkans.

Trainee test pilots at ETPS (Empire Test Pilots’ School) continues its successful co-operation with Sweden and Saab using the Gripen fighter aircraft.  ETPS, Britain’s world-class flight test training school,  is operated by QinetiQ in partnership with the UK Ministry of Defence.

Photo: Jamie Hunter

Since 1999, ETPS has included Gripen as a core part of the ETPS Fixed Wing Graduate Course syllabus. 2011 is no exception and building on this long established co-operation between the UK and Sweden, a new extended contract was signed earlier this spring targeting  two campaigns for this year.

The first campaign was carried out in May and the second one will take place in August/September this year. The course consists of 11 students and 4 instructors amounting to a total of about 90 flight hours. During each campaign, students and instructors will receive simulator training and instructional flights in a dual seat Gripen.

Each sortie will be used to teach specific techniques, demonstrate specific responses and characteristics and provide systems and assessment on the aircraft. There are also a number of target flights included in the campaign and the Swedish SK 60 jet trainer aircraft is used as a target for radar assessment.

“Gripen continues to provide ETPS with a world class 4th generation teaching platform in this very demanding area of flight test training – this activity marks another year of outstanding co-operation between Saab/SwAF and ETPS/QinetiQ,” says Rhys Williams, test pilot Instructor, ETPS.

Today all flying is conducted in Sweden at the Saab Flight Test facility in Linköping and Gripen simulator at the SwAF base F 7 Såtenäs.

The ETPS programme is being managed in close co-operation with Saab and the Swedish Air Force and further strengthens the excellent relations that already exist between these highly skilled operators.

At RIAT this year, 16th - 17th July at Fairford, UK, Gripen will be present represented by the Swedish Air Force.

For further information, please contact:
Saab Press Centre,
+46 734 180 018
pressc...@saabgroup.com
www.saabgroup.com

Saab serves the global market with world-leading products, services and solutions ranging from military defence to civil security. Saab has operations and employees on all continents and constantly develops, adopts and improves new technology to meet customers’ changing needs.

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During a ceremony on July 8, 2011 the Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) officially declared its new air defence system consisting of the Gripen fighter and Saab 340 Erieye AEW operational. The ceremony took place at the Wing 7 base in Surat Thani.

The new era for the RTAF began in 2008, when an agreement was signed between FMV, Sweden’s Defence Materiel Administration and the RTAF, for the delivery of six Gripen C/D multi-role fighter aircraft to replace its outgoing F-5 aircraft. The order also included one Saab 340 Erieye AEW, a single Saab 340 for transport purposes and a ground based Command- and Control system. A further batch of six Gripen C fighters and another Saab 340 Erieye AEW was ordered in 2010. Deliveries of the second RTAF order will be completed in 2013.

The training of Thai personnel began in 2009. Four pilots and 20 technicians were trained by the Swedish Armed Forces (SwAF). In 2010 they were back in their home country and were ready to receive the delivery of the first batch of aircraft. The first Saab 340 Erieye AEW and the Saab 340 transport aircraft arrived in December 2010, and the first batch of six Gripen fighters was flown from Sweden to Thailand in February 2011.

Since the deliveries of the first batch of aircraft, a second batch of Thai Gripen pilots and technicians has graduated from their training in Sweden.

Ten technicians have been trained in Sweden for a year and graduated in June 2011. The first part of the course was conducted at the Armed Forces Technical School (Air Force) in Halmstad. There, the basic technical knowledge of aircraft and its various subsystems. The second part of the training was carried out at F 7 Wing at Såtenäs, Sweden. Then it was all about hands-on training in how aircraft should be handled in the daily service, with preparation and maintenance work.

The six Thai ex F-16 pilots came to Såtenäs in February 2011 for a four months course on Gripen. The first part of the course is called Conversion Training (CT) and is to learn to fly the Gripen. Training takes place in simulators and in the two-seat Gripen D, before it's time for the student to carry out his first solo flight. The CT is followed by the Combat Readiness Training (CRT). During this phase, the pilots learn how to use the radar and weapons systems.

Present at the Wing 7 base in Surat Thani is also a support group with a number of technicians and pilots from the Swedish AF. Their task is to support the RTAF during the dayily operations while the RTAF is introducing their new air defence system.

Försvars- och säkerhetsföretaget Saab har fått order för 1 034 miljoner kronor från FMV (Försvarets Materielverk) gällande vidmakthållande och utvecklingsstudier av Gripen-systemet.

Defence and security company Saab has received an order amounting to MSEK 1,034 from FMV (the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration) for system maintenance and development studies regarding Gripen.

In accordance with the order from FMV, Saab will undertake continual maintenance and updates for the Gripen C/D in compliance with the Swedish Armed Forces' long-term planning for the Gripen system. Saab will also implement studies regarding further development and basic resources will be provided to perform renewed testing and verification of the Gripen system in the long-term.

Saab will also maintain the Gripen C/D system's operational capability. The order includes technical support, product maintenance, flight testing and flight simulator operation to ensure the operational capability of the Gripen system.

The total order amounts to MSEK 1,034 with the activities to be carried out during 2011.

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Saab Gripen Multi Role fighters are now flying with great success in five different air forces around the world. Integration of new weapons and capabilities are ongoing and the demonstrator for the future Gripen NG has been flying with new avionics and displays since May 19.

Gripen is also now operational in Thailand following delivery to the Royal Thai Air Force in February of the first six aircraft, out of a total requirement of twelve. Thailand now formally joins Sweden, South Africa, Hungary, the Czech Republic and the UK based Empire Test Pilot School as a Gripen user.

Another first is the Swedish participation in the NATO led operation ‘Unified Protector’ over Libya. Since April 2 eight Gripen fighters, based at the Sigonella air base in Sicily, are flying daily reconnaissance and air supremacy missions. So far more than 300 recce missions have produced over 80 000 photos.

Among the upgrades of the existing Gripen C/D fleet, two new weapons are being integrated. In May Denel Dynamics, South Africa, completed the integration of the A-Darter fifth generation air-to-air missile on Gripen. While at the Vidsel test range in Sweden Saab is integrating Small Diameter Bombs on the Swedish Air Force Gripen.

On May 19 the Gripen NG demonstrator aircraft flew with new avionics for the first time. At this stage of flight testing, after almost 200 flights, an open system architecture avionics system that separate flight critical from mission critical functionality is integrated in the aircraft. Also integrated are new Tactical Mission Computers, Ethernet networks and new Rockwell Collins displays.

For further information, please contact:

Saab Press Centre +46 734 180018
p....@saabgroup.com

www.saabgroup.com

Saab serves the global market with world-leading products, services and solutions ranging from military defence to civil security. Saab has operations and employees on all continents and constantly develops, adopts and improves new technology to meet customers’ changing needs.

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For the Swedish contribution to the ongoing Operation ‘Unified Protector’ over Libya, the reconnaissance capacity provided by Saab’s Modular Reconnaissance Pod System, plays a key role.

Sweden is contributing with flight operations to Libya in order to maintain the no-fly zone in accordance with the decision taken by the UN Security Council.

The main assignment is tactical aerial reconnaissance, where the capacity of the modular reconnaissance pod system on the Gripen fighter plays a key role. So far more than 80.000 high resolution photos have been captured and, according to the Swedish Armed Forces, overlapping picture are even being used to create digital 3D images.

With Saab’s Modular Reconnaissance Pod System, high-performance fighter aircraft can benefit from enhanced reconnaissance capabilities. The system has a 360 degree rotating window section, maximum flexibility when selecting the sensor suite, including both electro-optical as well as synthetic-aperture radar sensors and both day and night capability. The special design of the pod’s strong back structure supports the highest image resolution even during challenging flight conditions.

Features include the ability to capture high quality images from medium to high altitudes at high speeds, near real-time high-quality imaging and pre-evaluation of captured imagery whilst the aircraft is still airborne. It has a dual mode system; automatic and manual. The modular design supports future technology insertion thus providing for functional growth.

Saab was contracted by FMV, (Swedish Defence Materiel Administration), late in December 2001 for the development and supply of reconnaissance pods for the Swedish Gripen fighter. The system made it’s first flight in 2005. Last year Saab received an order from FMV for further development of the system, comprising night mission capability and improved pilot interface.

For further information, please contact:

Saab Press Centre, +46 734 180 018
www.saabgroup.com

Saab serves the global market with world-leading products, services and solutions ranging from military defence to civil security. Saab has operations and employees on all continents and constantly develops, adopts and improves new technology to meet customers’ changing needs.

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Defence and security company Saab has received an order from the Swedish Defence Material Administration (FMV) regarding development of the existing Gripen material system 39 (edition 19). The order amount is 152 MSEK.

The order consists of development work in Gripen C/D, for example enhanced function of the navigation system. The work will begin in 2011 and shall be finished in the first quarter of 2013.

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Defence and security company Saab AB, further to the intent declared at Aero India in February 2011, has entered into an agreement with leading Engineering & IT services organization Mahindra Satyam to establish Saab India Technology Center (SITC). This decision strengthens the already strategic relationship between Saab and the Mahindra Group.

The aim is to increase development inIndiain terms of identifying concrete programs and technologies for SITC. The center will provide a secure platform to facilitate development of aerospace & defence projects inIndia, supporting the establishment Saab is pursuing.Indiapresents a huge opportunity for Saab across their business areas Aeronautics, Dynamics, Electronic Defense Systems and Security and Defence Solutions.

This 300-seater dedicated center would be established at one of the Mahindra Satyam sites and will be an extended arm of Saab working on New Product Development and Product Sustenance Engineering. While supporting the internal operational excellence and optimization initiatives within Saab, this center will also support offset obligations for all Saab products and services inIndia.

Engineering services is one of the key focus and growth areas within Mahindra Satyam, which currently runs some of the largest dedicated R&D centers for global majors across industry segments including Aerospace. Mahindra Satyam has the right operational expertise and technical maturity to ensure this center delivers the set organizational targets.

Saab’s experience and technological prowess providing services and solutions ranging from military defence to civil security combined with Mahindra Satyam’s proven Global Engineering practice would result in a highly efficient and technically mature development environment inIndiathat can successfully address opportunities arising in these domains from emerging markets.

Image: Håkan Buskhe, CEO Saab and CP Gurnani, CEO Mahindra Satyam signing the agreement on establishing Saab India Technology Center (SITC).

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Since 2004, close to 250 non-Swedish flight technicians have been graduated after completing a Gripen technical course at the Swedish Armed Forces Technical School (FMTS) in Halmstad, Sweden. Now, a further 20 Hungarians have successfully passed the course, including the first Hungarian female Gripen technician.

Image: The first Hungarian female Gripen technician has now graduated.
Photo: Sven-Olof Willhöft, Swedish Armed Forces

“You have all performed extremely well and I hope that you all feel confident in your own abilities as Gripen technicians,” said Lieutenant Colonel Ulf Crona, deputy head of FMTS in his graduation speech to the students.

A step on the way

The course lasted 18 weeks. A further six months of on-the-job-training (OJT) now await at the Kecskemét airbase back home in Hungary, where the 14 Hungarian Gripen fighters are based. 110 Hungarian flight technicians have been trained in Sweden since 2005. The country has been successful in developing its own technical competence regarding the Gripen system, and there are now just a handful of Swedish flight technicians remaining in Hungary as support.

There is a new course planned for 20 Hungarian flight technicians in 2013, but the instructors at FMTS cannot rest until then. This autumn, they are expecting new shorter courses for Czechs and Hungarians.

Attila Tirol and his course colleagues are leaving Sweden with a positive experience of the country, especially the people he has met:

“Swedes are very nice, and they are always happy,” he says.

 
Based on a text by Charlotte Pettersson, Swedish Armed Forces www.forsvarsmakten.se

Defence and Security company, Saab AB, has announced the publication of the Gripen Czech Offset Program annual performance report for the year ending December 31, 2010.

The report, which has been approved by the Czech Ministry of Defence, documents the annual fulfilment of the Program of Industrial Cooperation accompanying the lease of 14 Gripen fighter aircraft to the Czech Republic by the Swedish Government. 

2010 highlights:

• Cumulative value of 23.74 billion CZK delivered as of December 2010
• 93% of total offset obligation to the Czech Republic delivered
• 2010 offset transactions valued at 3.82 billion CZK
• 48 registered Gripen offset transactions as of December 2010
• On target to deliver total offset obligation of 25.545 billion CZK

“We are pleased to announce that the Czech Gripen Offset Program continues to perform well, generating value for the Czech Republic and delivering benefits to Czech industry. Our excellent offset delivery in 2010 builds on our previous achievements of surpassing contractual milestones by healthy margins,” says Bengt Littke, Gripen Program Director – Czech Republic.

“The Ministry of Defence has approved the Gripen Offset Program Annual Report 2010. As at December 31, 2010 the total percentage of fulfilment amounts to 93% of the obligation. The Program is in compliance with the approved and signed terms of the Offset Agreement. The Gripen Offset Program means an outstanding long-term asset and stabilization factor for the Czech Defence Industry and other industrial branches as well," says Rudolf Blazek, Deputy Minister of Defence of the Czech Republic.
 
Background

Czech Gripen Offset Program

Gripen International is contractually committed to generate Offset and Industrial Cooperation to a value equal to 130% of the Gripen fighter lease contract value, which represents 25.545 billion CZK. The Offset Agreement requires a minimum direct Offset equalling 20% of the total Offset Agreement value (direct Offset refers to transactions in the defence, aerospace and security sectors). The Offset Program runs from June 14, 2004 to December 31, 2014.

All aspects of the Czech Gripen Offset Program are governed by the Agreement on the Program of Industrial Cooperation, a bilateral contract concluded between Gripen International and the Ministry of Defence of the Czech Republic. Czech offset legislation applies in the form of Ministry of Industry and Trade Decree No. 19/2010. The Ministry of Defence has the final power to approve or reject offset transactions and offset values within the Czech Gripen Offset Program. The Ministry of Industry and Trade is the administrator and technical guarantor of the Czech Gripen Offset Program, together with the multi-ministerial Offset Commission. In accordance with the contractual conditions, the Czech Gripen Offset Program is subject to annual independent audits.

Gripen
Gripen is a new generation fighter aircraft that employs the latest technology and the latest weapons to deliver the capability for an extensive variety of air-to-air, air-to-surface and reconnaissance operational missions. Gripen is in service with the Swedish, Czech, Hungarian, South African and Thai air forces. The UK Test Pilots’ School (ETPS) operates Gripen as its advanced fast jet platform for test pilots worldwide. Gripen is fully NATO compatible and can be deployed globally. Gripen meets the highest demands of operational deployment. 

Gripen International also has successful Offset Programs (Industrial Cooperation) in South Africa and in Hungary.

For further information, please contact:

Marie Karlsson, Saab Press Centre, +46 734 183 071

pressc...@saabgroup.com

Josef Bouska / Joe Cook, Cook Communications, +420 233 342 824-6

 j.bo...@cook-comm.com / j.c...@cook-comm.com

www.saabgroup.com

Saab serves the global market with world-leading products, services and solutions ranging from military defence to civil security. Saab has operations and employees on all continents and constantly develops, adopts and improves new technology to meet customers’ changing needs.

For many Brazilian companies, Sweden sets a good example with regards to corporate governance. To learn more about this, the Swedish-Brazilian Chamber of Commerce helped organize  a study visit to selected companies for members of Brazilian Institute of Corporate Governance IBGC (Instituto Brasileiro de Governanca Corporativa).

45 representatives from Brazilian companies were therefore on a week-long study visit in Sweden and Finland to learn more about how Swedish and Finnish companies are run. Saab was one of the companies being visited and besides this a visit to the Swedish palace and the Swedish Queen Silvia was on the agenda. Saab's Gripen offering to Brazil was obviously of tremendous interest, but that was not the main reason for the visit.

"We are interested in Saab since we get the impression that it is an extremely well organised company from a governance perspective, with strong owners, independent board members, union representatives on the board, active board committees and a code of conduct for all levels of the hierarchy including market consultants. We consider Saab to be an impressive company with its links to research and the academic field, for example”, said Leonardo Viegas who was responsible for the visit from IBGC.

The visit here in Sweden was highly appreciated by the 45 people who took part in the study visit.

Image: Members of the Brazilian Institute of Corporate Governance IBGC when the visited Saab. Photo: Lasse Hejdenberg.

In May four Gripen fighters from the 211th tactical squadron, Čáslav Air Force Base in the Czech Republic participated in the NATO Tiger Meet 2011.

The exercise took place in Cambrai, France and is one of the largest air exercises in Europe. The Gripen squadron participated to defend their titel from last year, the Silver Tiger Award. This year they remained as one of the best squadrons participating.

Exercise at all levels

NATO Tiger Meet is not just about the aircraft or the pilot. It stands for a sophisticated system of modern supersonic fighters controlled by a pilot trained at the best level, with the support of qualified and competent technical staff. The Czech Gripen pilot, Lieutenant Milan Nykodym, was one of the participants in NATO Tiger Meet 2011.

“We have trained together with the Swiss Air Force’s F/A-18 Hornet and with F-16 Fighting Falcon bearing the Turkish and Greek insignia”, he said.

The 211th tactical squadron proved their qualities in dozens of simulated air duels, in rescue operations in aid of downed pilots, in seeking and destroying important targets in the opponents’ rear and as protection of helicopters with paratroopers.

“During the exercise two Czech Gripen fighters were gracing the sky of France in the mornings while in the afternoon fighting in a cluster of four. All demonstrating the great capabilities of the Gripen fighter", he continues.

The NATO Tiger Association (NTA) brings together units from all over the world that have a tiger or other big cat in their logos or emblems. The large-scale international exercise, NATO Tiger Meet, is intended by the association to strengthen the ties between its members.

Image: Members from the 211th tactical squadron at Čáslav Air Force Base celebrating the end of NATO Tiger Meet 2011.

Image: Four Gripen fighters from the 211th tactical squadron flew in NATO Tiger Meet 2011. Two of them were decorated with typical Tiger camouflage which was made especially for the exercise.

The first batch of Gripen fighters for the Royal Thai Air Force was delivered in February 2011. They are based at Wing 7 in Surat Thani in the southern part of the country. If you want to see some RTAF Gripen action, please click on the links to watch two newly produced videos showing them flying in the skies of Thailand.

Captain Henrik Lahti is back in Sweden after two weeks of service at the Sigonella base on Sicily. Some time ago, he met Saab's Gripen In Service Team (IST) to share experiences of the mission so far.

During a visit to F21 in Luleå, northern Sweden, Prince Daniel took part in an orientation flight aboard a JAS 39 Gripen. The pilot was Squadron Commander Jörgen Marqvardsen. 

Image: Prince Daniel tries the JAS 39 Gripen. Photo: Johan Brolin, Swedish Armed Forces

According the the website of the Swedish Armed Forces, the Prince remarked during his visit:

"When The Crown Princess and I last visited F21 I had the opportunity to fly a JAS 39 simulator. When I was invited back to F21 to fly an actual JAS 39 I accepted immediately.

The JAS 39 system represents cutting-edge technology combined with experienced and skilled staff. Today's in-depth insight has given me a real understanding of just how much the Swedish contribution is appreciated in connection with the operation in Libya.

In conclusion, The Crown Princess and I would like to take the opportunity to send our best wishes to all those who are involved in various international operations around the world."

Image: Prince Daniel before take-off. Photo: Johan Brolin, Swedish Armed Forces

Captain Anna Dellham recently completed her first Gripen solo flight to become the first female Gripen pilot in the Swedish Air Force.

In fact, Anna Dellham is Sweden's only female combat pilot whatsoever. She was awarded her wings in the mid-1990s and flew the Viggen until the aircraft was taken out of service before going onto fly the SK 60. She now works with Gripen's development at FTS, the Aeronautical Command of the Air Force Headquarters.

So what does she think about being the country's only female combat pilot? In the Swedish Defence Recruitment Agency's magazine she explains: "I think it is a shame. Flying combat aircraft is extremely special and rewarding. Flying is no harder for a woman than a man. There are no rational arguments why there are not more female combat pilots. It is about coping while your body is subjected to g-forces when flying. Those wanting to become pilots should be in good physical condition, but it isn't necessary to be super-fit."

She has flown in Gripen several times before, but now she has flown solo for the very first time. The flight took off from Skaraborg wing (F7). Initially she will fly the Gripen A/B and will later move on to the C/D version.

"It feels fantastic and this will be by far my best professional year in a more than a decade," says Anna Dellham. "The Gripen system is an extremely good aircraft with excellent flight characteristics."

The LAAD exhibition in Rio, Brazil, is a good example of how close defence and civil security is working together. The ongoing fighter competition, in which Gripen is one of three remaining candidates, is naturally the hottest topic of the exhibition, however, other procurements are waiting in the wings and a lot of them have something to do with civil security.

One of the reasons for civil security being high on the agenda is of course that Brazil in a few years will host both the Fifa World Cup and the Olympic Games. Saab’s civil security solutions were used during the latest World Cup in South Africa. Technology and installation services were supplied to a command and control network of the South African police to help with transmission and recording.    

South Africa showed during the last Fifa World Cup how effective a modern fighter like Gripen can be in securing the airspace, working autonomous and as a flying command centre for other units. Another important asset for Brazil could also be effective ground based air defence systems and here Saab is offering both the Rbs 70 and the Bamse systems.  

Threats can not only come from the sky but also from the sea. For some time Brazil has considered a completely new maritime surveillance system along the lines of the very successful Sivam programme over the Amazonas where Saab’s Erieye is an important part. The maritime system, called SisGAAz, is not only needed to keep an eye on what is going on along the Brazilian coast but also to protect vital offshore assets. Saab has a wide range of products that could form the backbone of such a “system of systems”. A similar product, already in use by the Swedish Armed Forces, was demonstrated at LAAD in the Saab stand by a Royal Swedish Navy.

Eight Gripen fighter aircraft from the Swedish Armed Forces are currently taking part in the NATO led UN mission in Libya.    

The formal decision to participate in the UN mission was taken by the Swedish Parliament in the beginning of April 2011. In total, the Swedish Armed Forces will deploy up to 130 people for this mission, including ten Gripen pilots, for a period of up to three months. The Gripen fighters are now based at Sigonella, Sicily, Italy.

This Swedish Gripen force is designated FL 01 and is basically the Expeditionary Air Wing, which was formed as a part of the EU´s Nordic Battle Group. In addition to the eight Gripen C/D aircraft, FL 01 also consists of a C-130 Hercules. The Gripen force was rapidly deployed from the Swedish Air Force F 17 Wing at Ronneby, Sweden, and all were in place at Sigonella within just two days following the Parliament's decision.

The Swedish Air Force is well prepared for the mission, having taken part in numerous international exercises over a period of many years, notably the Red Flag exercises in USA since 2006. In these exercises, Gripen has shown that it is a multi-role fighter, with full capability to operate in air-to-air, air-to-ground and reconnaissance roles. The mandate from the Swedish Parliament for this mission does not include air-to-ground operations, so the Swedish AF Gripen will operate in the air defence and reconnaissance roles over Libya, enforcing the No-Fly Zone.

Defence and security company Saab has received an order worth SEK 200 million from FMV (the Swedish Defence Material Administration) for system maintenance of Gripen.

The contract represents a part of continual system maintenance and updating tasks for the Gripen C/D and complies with the Swedish Armed Forces' long-term planning for the Gripen. The order applies to basic resources, for example renewal of test equipment for testing and verification of the Gripen system on the long term. 

The order concerns operations to be carried out during 2011.

Saab serves the global market with world-leading products, services and solutions ranging from military defence to civil security. Saab has operations and employees on all continents and constantly develops, adapts and improves new technology to meet customers’ changing needs.

For further information, please contact:

Saab Press Centre, +46 (0)734 180 018, pressc...@saabgroup.com

www.saabgroup.com

The information is that which Saab AB is required to declare by the Securities Business Act and/or the Financial instruments Trading Act. The information was submitted for publication on 30 March at 15.00.

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The Royal Thai Air Force has now commenced flights from the new Gripen base in Surat Thani in southern Thailand.

The first flight on the morning of 15 March was completed by Squadron Commander Jackkrit Thammavichai, with Claes Wikström from the Swedish Air Force sitting in the rear seat of the Gripen D.

Image: The first flight from the new Gripen base in Surat Thani in southern Thailand was completed by Squadron Commander Jackkrit Thammavichai from the Royal Thai Air Force, and Claes Wikström from the Swedish Air Force. Photo: Swedish Armed Forces.

The first six Gripen C/D fighters arrived to the Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) and their new home base at Wing 7 in Surat Thani in southern Thailand on 22 February.

The six Gripen fighters are part of an intergovernmental business transaction where FMV, the Swedish Defence Material Administration, representing the Government of Sweden, supplies an integrated air-defence system based on products manufactured by Saab. The new air-defence system consists of Gripen, the Airborne Early Warning system Saab 340 Erieye AEW and a command & control system.

In preparation for the delivery of the Gripen fighters, pilots and ground crew from the Royal Thai Air Force have been trained in Sweden during 2010.

Photo: Swedish Armed Forces.

> Read more about the order from the Royal Thai Air Force

Defence and security company Saab has received an order from FMV (the Swedish Defence Material Administration) regarding the Gripen system for the continuous upkeep of its operative capability. The order is worth MSEK 120.

While the Royal Thai Air Force was receiving the first part delivery of its Gripen Fighters, six Thai pilots arrived in Sweden to receive their Gripen training. This is the second group of Thai pilots to be trained at Skaraborg Wing, F 7, in Sweden. For the next six months, they will combine theory classes with training flights in the simulator and Gripen.

"We are talking about experienced F-16 pilots from the Royal Thai Air Force so we expect the training to be straightforward," says Captain Anders Hjärp.

The first group of Thai pilots were trained in 2010. That training course lasted one year, partly due to the pilots also being trained to become instructors. They also received training in the roles of both air defence and ground targets. This time however, the pilots will not become instructors. They will be trained in the air defence role, but not as instructors. This means that the training time is halved.

The Security Equipment Division checks to make sure that the mask does not leak.                                      Photographer: John Lidman/Swedish Armed Forces.

Training on the Gripen C/D

This is the first time that the training is carried out entirely on the Gripen C/D. To begin with, they will study the theory. This is combined with simulator flights. After one month, they will fly in the twin-seat Gripen D together with an instructor. After a week of dual instruction, it will be time to fly solo.

After completing five solo flights, the training will move to the next phase; from CT to CRT. CT stands for Conversion Training and is aimed at learning how to fly the aircraft. CRT stands for Combat Readiness Training. Here, the students learn to operate the radar and weapons systems and how to use them tactically in battle. This part of the training will last for about ten weeks. The training is expected to be completed by the end of June 2011, after which the Thai pilots will return to their home base at Surat Thani.

Yesterday the Swedish Armed Forces released their budget proposal that includes planned spending and planned procurment for the coming four years. A clear commitment to the JAS 39 Gripen for another 30 years is expressed.

The Swedish parliament have previously decided that the Gripen system will provide the back-bone in the Swedish air defence until 2040. In the budget proposal it is clear that the Armed Forces argues for an upgrade of the Jas 39 Gripen fleet during 2020-2030 to remain competitive.  

 “This clear commitment to the Gripen system is of course positive for us. We are part of the capability upgrades and can support the needs of the Swedish Armed Forces. This is also a cost efficent way for Sweden to have a competitive fighter aircraft over the coming 30 years,” says Jonas Hjelm, Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer, and adds:  

 “At the same time it is important to remember that the budget proposal is part of a larger process and political standpoints.”

The Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) has now taken delivery of six Gripen C/D fighters. These aircraft belong to the first batch ordered in 2008. In total, Thailand has ordered 12 Gripen.

The Gripen fighters were flown from Sweden to Thailand and arrived to their new home base at Wing 7 in Surat Thani in southern Thailand on 22 February.

The six Gripen fighters are part of an intergovernmental business transaction where FMV, the Swedish Defence Material Administration, representing the Government of Sweden, supplies an integrated air-defence system based on products manufactured by Saab. The new air-defence system consist of Gripen, the Airborne Early Warning system Saab 340 Erieye AEW and a command & control system.

In preparation for the delivery of the Gripen fighters, pilots and ground crew from the Royal Thai Air Force have been trained in Sweden during 2010.

Read more about the order from the Royal Thai Air Force

A student of a Bangalore engineering college was the lucky winner of the Gripen Top Gun contest which was held as part of Aero India 2011 on the website gripentopgun. On Sunday February 13 he had a 50 minutes ride on the Gripen and got a feel of the fighter aircraft.

Image: Shashank HR from Bangalore was the lucky winner of the Gripen Top Gun contest and won a flight in the fighter aircraft Gripen.

22-year-old Shashank HR from Bangalore emerged as the Gripen India Top Gun in the month long contest organized by Defence and security company Saab for Indian combat aircraft followers and those with a dream to fly a fighter aircraft. The top 5 finalists from across the country tested their skills on the Gripen simulator on Saturday and were judged by four top Indian and Swedish pilots on their aircraft handling and combat skills.

Shashank HR is a final year Mechanical Engineer student at the BMS College of Engineering. Shashank was first kitted out in his flight suit on Sunday morning and then extensively briefed by the Gripen Team. Shashank’s Gripen flight, which took off after the morning display, was piloted by Chief Test Pilot Robin Norlander. Shashank HR is an avid gamer and qualified through the ACE level of the contest.

"It was a tough choice between the five finalists who gave the Indian and Swedish jury much to evaluate. Finally, Shashank was chosen among the final contenders for his performance on the simulator. We are delighted at the great response and interest in this contest. What was amazing was that people in over 75 countries visited the site. However, the most exciting part of the contest was the huge participation in India with visitors to the site from 82 Indian cities. We are absolutely delighted with the results and I congratulate all the winners and look forward to the selection of the Gripen Top Gun, the one Indian who will fly in the Gripen fighter aircraft on Sunday,” said Joanna Sjolander,  In Country Director, Gripen India

Image: The five finalists for the simulator flights were Kasmera Dilip Shah (Bangalore), Chiranth Ashok (Bangalore), Selween Philip Mascarenhas (Chennai), Shaival Rajiv Sheth Mumbai) and Shashank HR (Bangalore).

The Gripen Top Gun contest

The site received over 150,000 page views. Around 3000 contestants played the amateur level of the game while around 2400 contestants played the professional and ace levels since January 12 to win a large number of prizes and collectibles. Over a hundred model aspirants also participated for the Gripen Top Gun India Calendar contest.

The contest had an amateur and professional level challenge to test the knowledge of aircraft buffs while providing an opportunity for video games buffs the opportunity to enter their best flying effort on the Gripen and take a shot at flying the real Gripen. The Gripen game entries were judged by top Swedish and Indian pilots to select a few who would get a shot at flying the real Gripen Aircraft simulator. Out of the five chosen simulator 'pilots', one will get to fly the real thing: the Gripen. To top it, for those not really interested in the technical end but love the look and feel of the aircraft, the Gripen Top Guns contest featured a Model Hunt in which 12 participants made it to the first ever Gripen India Calendar.

Apart from the grand prize of a flight in the Gripen, the Gripen Top Guns contest has a host of prizes for those who get it right and win in the draw of lots, including Gripen fighter pilot flying suits, Gripen Aviator Glasses, Gripen Exclusive Calendars signed by Swedish Test Pilots as well as Gripen Collectibles including Gripen Key Tags, Badges, Stickers And Pens.

> See videos from Aero India
> Read more about Saabs present at Aero India

Gripen is now at Aero India 2011, performing aerial displays and present on the static area.

Gripen taxies at Air Force Station Yelahanka in Bengaluru during Aero India 2011. Photo: Frans Dely

Saab takes pleasure in inviting you to visit us at Aero India 2011.

Gripen, the centrepiece of our air superiority offer, is in flight at the event. It is also demonstrated by the Gripen Simulator and featured in the static display area.

 
Image: Gripen air display at Aero India 2011. Photo: Frans Dely

Today, during Aero India in Bangalore, defence and security company Saab announced the establishment of a Research and Development Centre in India.

With the establishment of this Research & Development Centre Saab will create a sustainable and long term relationship to be able to co-develop critical technologies with India. This centre is a part of Saabs future offer for the world market.

 “The aim of the research and development centre is to transfer to India continuously already identified concrete programs and technologies. The Centre will form a bridge between India and Sweden, and together with an initial base of 100-300 skilled Indian engineers form the backbone of the Centre. The Centre will stimulate innovation all around India,” says Saab President & CEO Håkan Buskhe.

The areas of focus would cover aerospace, defence and urban innovation including civil security. The Centre will be established in close co-operation with Indian partners and universities and will create new innovations, new technology and exporting opportunities for Indian governmental, academic and industry entities.

Saab CEO Håkan Buskhe at Aero India. Photo: Frans Dely

The Bulgarian Minister of Defence Anuy Angelov met yesterday with senior representatives of the Swedish defence and security company Saab as part of a bilateral official visit to Sweden. The Minister visited Saab’s production facility in Linkoping where the Gripen fighter aircraft is being manufactured.

Image: The Bulgarian delegation visited Saab in Linköping. Photo: Saab/Per Kustvik.

The Bulgarian delegation was hosted by Lennart Sindahl, Executive Vice President and Head of Saab Business Area Aeronautics. Topics concerning the modernization of the Bulgarian Air Force were discussed and the possibilities for Sweden to deliver Gripen fighters to Bulgaria.

”Bulgaria is an important market for Saab and we see a strong possibility to develop the industrial ties between our two countries”, said Lennart Sindahl, Executive Vice President and Head of Saab Business Area Aeronautics.

Minister Angelov will also meet with the Swedish Minister for Defence Sten Tolgfors and Saab President and CEO, Håkan Buskhe.

The Bulgarian Ministry of Defence recently issued a Request for Information for multirole fighter aircraft to the Bulgarian Air Force. Gripen is one the contenders. Sweden and Saab remain fully committed to the modernization process of the Bulgarian Air Force. Sweden offers Bulgaria brand new, fully NATO interoperable, multirole Gripen fighters in an intergovernmental deal.

Image: Bulgarian Minister of Defence Anuy Angelov learned more about Gripen. Photo: Saab/Per Kustvik.

Gripen is the first of the new generation, multi-role fighter aircraft to enter operational service. Using the latest technology it is capable of performing an extensive range of air-to-air, air-to-surface and reconnaissance missions employing the latest weapons. 

Read more about Gripen

Defence and security company Saab has received an order from the Swedish Defence Material Administration (FMV) regarding development of the existing material system 39 (edition 19). The order amount is 127 MSEK.

The Indian journalist Vishnu is the first, and so far the only civilian in the world who has flewn the Gripen NG (Next Generation). In Indian television he recently let the viewers take part of his unique flight over the Swedish archipelago.

The Indian journalist Vishnu Som, Associate Editor and Senior Anchor, New Delhi Television (NDTV) was the first civilian to fly the Gripen NG. His story of flying in the Gripen NG was telecasted on NDTV in India, covering the 45 minute sortie which included a supercruise and a spectacular flight just 50 feet over the Baltic Sea. The Gripen fighter flew in formation with a Gripen D-version and was filmed from a SK 60 jet trainer aircraft.

Vishnu Som has earlier written about his flight in the Indain defence magazine Vayu.

Vishnu Som’s flight including great air-air shoots of the Gripen NG

Jamie Hunter won the 2010 Aviation Week Photo Contest Military Category with one of his Saab Gripen photographs taken in August during a visit to Linkoping.

Image: With this photo of Gripen Jamie Hunter won the 2010 Aviation Week Photo Contest Military Category . 

Jamie said: ' We had a very small window of opportunity to shoot the Gripen NG Demo in formation with a JAS 39D and so it had to planned very carefully. The weather in the area around Linkoping was quite bad with heavy rain and low clouds - but luckily we were able to find some better weather in the operating area thanks to some advice from a Gripen pilot who had just returned from a local mission. This was Rhys Williams from the ETPS, an old friend of mine. We got airborne in the Sk60 cameraship and immediately climbed above the cloud into fabulous blue skies and headed for the operating area. The Gripen NG Demo and the Gripen-D were vectored towards us quickly and we used up our 10 minute window very quickly before the two aircraft went their separate ways to complete their respective missions'.

The images from the photo shoot also appear a 16-page Gripen supplement in the December 2010 issue of Combat Aircraft Monthly magazine, of which Jamie is the editor. More of Jamies stunning Gripen images can also be found in the Saab Image Bank.

Jamie Hunter is one of the best known aviation photographers today and has flow with air forces around the world. He got the “Best of the best” award in last years Aviation Week Photo Contest after a photo assignment with the US Navy and a third price Military Category flying with the Royal Air Force Red Arrows display team.

Defence and security company Saab has received an order from the Swedish Defence Material Administration, FMV, for the continuous support of Gripen’s operational capacity. The order amounts to 120 MSEK.

Saab has been awarded an interim support and services contract from ARMSCOR in South Africa involving the South Africans Air Force´s growing fleet of Gripen C and D advanced fighter aircraft. The agreement covers interim support services for the time until the fleet is fully operational.

Today the development of a new Swedish-Brazilian research and innovation center in São Bernardo do Campo, Brazil, begins. Saab is one of the initiators and the co-operation starts with a two-day workshop on December 1 and 2.

The Gripen weapons and sensor integration programme is constantly evolving and continues to cover new ground. Recently, the integration test flight with the new Thales Digital Joint Reconnaissance Pod for the South African Gripen was carried out successfully at the Saab test and evaluation facilities in Linköping, Sweden. 

 South African Gripen with recce pod. Photo: Stefan Kalm

The integration test took place on a South African series production Gripen. The Recce Pod completed its factory integration tests already in June this year and is now completing the integration tests on the Gripen platform. The reconnaissance pod will be delivered to the South African customer after the integration phase next year.

"We are at full speed ahead regarding our weapons’ and integration program for Gripen .The capabilities of Gripen and the ease of weapons and sensor integration are exceeding all our expectations. It is a truly remarkable platform to work with and fly. We see no boundaries and limitations for this aircraft and we look forward to continue our co-operation with our customers to keep Gripen at the cutting edge of technology", says Gripen Test Pilot Johan Sjöstrand.

Defence and security company Saab has received an order from the Indian Maritime Authority, DGLL (Directorate General of Lighthouses and Lightships) for supply of a system for coastal surveillance for the entire Indian coast. The order is worth approximately 116 MSEK.

The system that DGLL ordered comprises sensors to be installed along the Indian coast and equipment for regional and national control centers. Users of the system apart from DGLL will be the Indian navy, Coast Guard and DG Shipping.

Saab will implement the project which includes installation, commissioning, training and support together with their Indian partner, Elcome Marine Services.

The project will start immediately and will be completed within 18 months.

Our opinion is that Saab with this strategic order, which contains future options, will be able to develop further business in India within the marine domain.

"Our systems for monitoring sea traffic have been installed on several of the coasts in the world and also along inland waterways in Europe and in China. With this order we are strengthening our position further," says Gunilla Fransson, head of Saab´s business area Security and Defense Solutions.

"It is equally satisfying that we now deepen and enhance our relation with India. This project along with the co-operations we already have makes India an important long term market for Saab."

Saab serves the global market with world-leading products, services and solutions ranging from military defence to civil security. Saab has operations and employees on all continents and constantly develops, adopts and improves new technology to meet customers’ changing needs.

For further information, please contact:

Saab Press Centre, +46 (0)734 180 018

www.saabgroup.com

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The information is that which Saab AB is required to declare by the Securities Business Act and/or the Financial instruments Trading Act. The information was submitted for publication on November 24 at 15.45.

Defence and security company Saab has received an order from FMV (Swedish Defence Material Administration) for six Gripen aircraft intended for the Royal Thai Air Force. The order is worth approximately 2,2 billion SEK.

The six Gripen aircraft are of the single-seat C version and the project duration is between 2010 -2013. They are part of an intergovernmental business transaction where FMV, as representative of the Government of Sweden, sells an integrated air-defence system based on products manufactured by Saab, including Gripen.

Image: Royal Thai Air Force Gripen and Saab 340 AEW. Photographer: Peter Liander, Saab.

Saab’s role in this business transaction is to, as an FMV sub-supplier, deliver the ordered Gripen aircraft and to upgrade the Saab Erieye radar system equipped Saab 340 that FMV is selling to Thailand.

The order is a follow-up to an earlier order from 2008 when FMV ordered six Gripen intended for Thailand.

“The order strengthens the co-operation between Thailand and Sweden. It also serves as further proof of Saab’s ability to deliver sophisticated integrated defence systems as well as strengthening international faith in the Gripen system,” says Håkan Buskhe CEO of Saab.

Saab serves the global market with world-leading products, services and solutions ranging from military defence to civil security. Saab has operations and employees on all continents and constantly develops, adopts and improves new technology to meet customers’ changing needs.

For further information, please contact:

Saab Press Centre, +46 (0)734 180 018

www.saabgroup.com (http://www.saabgroup.com)

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The information is that which Saab AB is required to declare by the Securities Business Act and/or the Financial instruments Trading Act. The information was submitted for publication on November 23 at 13.00.

Recently Major Catherine Labuschagne, of the South African Air Force, made her solo Gripen flight at the South African airbase Makhado in the Limpopo province of South Africa. This promptly gave her a place in the record books as the first female Gripen pilot.

Her achievement has been highlighted in media around the world and last week a special feature on Gripen and Major Catherine Labuschagne was aired on South African TV.

Please click on the link to see the feature programme (two parts).

When the Waddington International Air Show where held this summer at Royal Air Force (RAF) Waddington in UK, the Gripen display pilot Michal Daněk from the Czech Air Force won the trophy for the most accurate and polished flying display during the show.

The competition was judged by the Flying Control Committee, made up of experts from multiple aviation backgrounds. This years Committee contained former Red Arrows pilots, former BBMF* pilots and other ex RAF pilots as well as airspace specialists and representatives from the UK Civil Aviation Authority. 

The competition was open to all those who were flying on at the air show, some 36 participants. The display was judged on accuracy, dynamics, presentation and adherence to the display lines and heights. 

Image: The winner Michal Daněk from the Czech Air Force receives his award from Major General Jonathan Bailey.  

*BBMF - Royal Air Force Battle of Britain Memorial Flight is the RAF's tribute to the aviators of WWII, and flies several Spitfires, two Hurricanes, a Dakota and a Lancaster. 

Saab CEO Håkan Buskhe is currently on a four day visit to India with deputy CEO, Lena Olving and Senior Vice President Industrial Co-operation, Andreas Von der Heide. During their visit they will meet with a number of Indian industries to discuss potential future co-operations.

For a long time Saab has regarded India as an important hub strategically and is acknowledging India as a fast growing key market with a procurement plan that fits well into Saab’s portfolio. This is Håkan Buskhes’ second visit to India since September after taking position as new CEO of Saab.

For Saab to ensure future co-operations and lasting business-driven partnerships,  generating long-term mutual benefits, steps must be taken with care, involving productive discussions and strategic action plans to establish what kind of co-operation or partnership that should be entered into. 

During the visit Håkan Buskhe has also had the opportunity to further deepen relationships with The Indian Industrial company Mahindra Satyam by signing a Letter of Intent  which should be seen as the initial step in a long-term co-operation between the two parties.

Over a period of three months, four pilots from the Czech Air Force have been in Sweden in order to train as Gripen pilots. They also spent two days visiting Saab to see where Gripen is produced.

At Saab, they were given a presentation about the company and had the opportunity to visit the simulator, the final assembly and the composite workshop. The prospective Gripen pilots were happy to be able to visit Saab.  

"It was fascinating to get to see the place and the hangars where Gripen is produced, said Martin Paček”, one of the pilots.

Image: The pilots visited the Gripen final assembly during their visit at Saab in Linköping. Photo: Per Kustvik.  

Extremely satisfied

The training has taken place at F 7 Såtenäs, which has responsibility for the training of Czech, Hungarian and Thai pilots. The training is carried out at the Gripen centre training facility, a facility that contains all the facilities needed to effectively train Gripen pilots. The pilots have previously flown the L-159 Alca at Čáslav squadron in the Czech Republic and they are extremely satisfied with the training that is developing them into Gripen pilots. Much of the training is spent in the simulators at the Gripen centre, but theory also plays a major part in the training.  Martin and his friends have now returned to the Czech Republic to commence tactical training at Čáslav Air Force Base. It was four expectant Gripen admirers that returned.  

"We are delighted to be operating the Gripen system in the Czech Republic, and if it were up to us to decide, we would want to operate Gripen in the Czech Republic today, tomorrow and in the future," said all four in agreement.

20 Gripen pilots 

The Czech Gripen aircraft are based at Čáslav Air Force Base, in the heart of the Czech countryside. At the base, there is one division flying Gripen and another operating the L-159. The Czech Republic has four Air Force Bases in total and at the other three bases there are helicopters and transport aircraft. There are around 20 Gripen pilots at present in the Czech Republic.

Yesterday, Akaer released to Saab the first 3D model and production drawing of the Gripen NG in Sao Jose de Campos.

One year ago an agreement was signed between Akaer and Saab regarding the participation in the Gripen NG development program. The purpose of the agreement was to lay the foundations for good cooperation between the two companies and to support Saab's development  and production for the rear and intermediate fuselage sections, wings and landing gear doors for Gripen NG. Immediately after the agreement signature, a team of Brazilian engineers from Akaer  were stationed in Sweden  to acquaint themselves with the NG project to participate in the development and to learn about Saab's requirements and methods in the form of technology transfer through "on the job training".

Image: Gripen NG Project Manager, Lars Erik Svedlund from Saab and CEO Cesar Silva from Akaer.

Prepared and certified

At the same time, facilities at Akaer in Brazil were prepared and certified for the work activities related to Gripen NG development, including special security controlled areas equipped with advanced network systems connected with Saab in Sweden.

During 2010 the Akaer team participated in the conception phase including design, stress, tooling and industrialization. The activity migrated to Akaer’s facilities in Brazil along the year. The technical package including the 3D model and production drawings released today was sent to Saab’s data bank in Linkoping, Sweden through a secure datalink.

Brazilian consortium

Akaer is leading the T1 Brazilian consortium that includes Inbra Aerospace, Friuli, Minoica and Winstall involved in the development of the Gripen NG intermediate and rear fuselages, wings and main landing gear doors.

If selected for the Brazilian F-X2 Program, the serial production of the Gripen NG segments for Brazil and export will be made, as a sole source, from a new facility to be established in São Bernardo do Campo.

A successful co-operation

“ The release of this first drawing has proven the successful co-operation between our two companies proving  Saab’s commitment and investment in Brazilian industry and as a future partner. We look forward to our further development together,” says Lennart Sindahl Saab Executive Vice President and Business Group Chairman Aeronautics.

Proud of its involvement

"This is the first drawing release of a supersonic fighter aircraft ever developed in Brazil and demonstration of the successful technology transfer process conducted by Saab. Akaer is proud of its involvement and the capabilities demonstrated by its team to comply with such challenging task," says Akaer CEO Cesar Augusto da Silva

Akaer is a Brazilian engineering company and one of the major suppliers of development services to the Brazilian aerospace and defence industry both nationally and internationally.

Image: It was a lot media attention during the press conference.

211th tactical squadron from the Czech Air Force with their Gripen fighters received the prestigious Silver Tiger Award to the best squadron during the recently held NATO Tiger Meet 2010.

The Czechs completed 664 tasks over a number of sorties during the two week long NATO Tiger Meet and proved their qualities in dozens of simulated air duels, in rescue operations in aid of downed pilots, in seeking and destroying important targets in the opponents’ rear and as protection of helicopters with paratroopers.

“Our training program and our skills, in conjunction with Gripen has allowed us to win this important award. The reason why Gripen was a star of Tiger Meet is its ability to solve the tasks at the longest possible distance – without a direct dogfight with the enemy” said the Commander of 211th Tactical Squadron at Čáslav Air Force Base, LtCol Jaroslav Míka in Czech Television.

Image: Czech Gripen with tiger markings during NATO Tiger Meet. Photo: Ulrich Metternich/Luftwaffe.

Positive image of Gripen

“I'm very proud and happy on behalf of the Czech squadron. It's an important and prestigious award they have received. When our customers perform as well as the Czechs have now done it also provides a positive image of our aircraft and further increases our reputation"says Bengt Littke, Program Director for Gripen in the Czech Republic.

The NATO Tiger Association

The NATO Tiger Association (NTA) brings together units from all over the world that have a tiger or other big cat in their logos or emblems. The large-scale international exercise, NATO Tiger Meet intended by the association to strengthen the ties between its members took place between 4 and 15 October at the Royal Netherlands Air Force air base of Volkel. All of the other participating squadrons during this year Tiger Meet recommended the Czech 211th tactical squadron for the award. 

Full membership

Additional to this prestigious award the 211th tactical squadron also became full members of the NATO Tiger Association during Tiger Meet. 

Image: 211th Tactical Squadron from the Czech Air Force happy after receiving the award. 

Read more about NATO Tiger Association and Tiger Meet here (http://www.natotigers.org/).

Watch TV-interview with Jaroslav Míka here (in Czech). (http://www.ceskatelevize.cz/ivysilani/210411010101018-studio-6/obsah/129337-profil/)

For further information, please contact:

Saab Press Centre,

+46 734 180 018
pressc...@saabgroup.com

www.saabgroup.com (http://www.saabgroup.com/)

Saab serves the global market with world-leading products, services and solutions ranging from military defence to civil security. Saab has operations and employees on all continents and constantly develops, adopts and improves new technology to meet customers’ changing needs.

FMV recently conducted a so-called Safe-Separation firing from Gripen with the Meteor missile at the Vidsel test range.

Image: The Meteor missile is currently being integrated on the Swedish Air Force Gripen. Photo: Kristofer Sjöström, FMV Vidsel Test Range

It was the first live-firing of the Swedish Integration programme. Gripen has also been the launch platform from the start of the development of the Meteor missile.

The purpose of this test was to verify the model on separation of the missile from the aircraft. The impact from the missile exhaust plume on the aircraft engine was also studied. As an important part of the integration work the data-link was verified as well.

An initial evaluation showed that the missile separated from the inboard pylon station in a normal manner and the data link between the missile and the aircraft was activated. Temperature data from the aircraft engine was also monitored. The missiles flight was terminated as planned at a predetermined position.

“Saab together with FMV Test & Evaluation Department accomplished the campaign very successfully. Saab evaluates and analyzes the data gathered from the test firing together with the supplier," said Michael Östergren, Project Manager at FMV.

With this firing the first of two phases in the Swedish integration is now completed.

The first phase was designed to support the development of the missile while the next phase is designed to fully integrate the missile on Gripen. The final integration with Gripen for the Swedish Air Force has recently begun and is expected to be finalized during 2013.

Image: Gripen equipped with the Meteor missile taking off from Vidsel for a test firing. Photo: Kristofer Sjöström, FMV Vidsel Test Range

Håkan Buskhe has only been CEO of Saab for one and a half months but he has already travelled the globe marketing Gripen to several countries. Yesterday, Mr Buskhe got his first flight in the Gripen fighter, taking-off from the Saab airfield in Linköping, Sweden.

The flight, in a Gripen D (39827) lasted for 1 hour and 8 minutes, with Ola Rignell, head of Saab Flight Test in the front seat. That included two sorties with a hot refuelling in between.  

Image: Ola Rignell, head of Saab Flight Test, congratulates Saab's new CEO Håkan Buskhe (right) after his first flight in Gripen. Photo: Per Kustvik

“I’m living my childhood dream right now, and the flight in Gripen was just the icing on the cake. I´ve been briefed by the engineers that design the aircraft, visited the different stages of production and talked to some of the fantastic people that build the aircraft and now I’ve spent time at our Flight Test department. And remember, Gripen is just one of our world leading products.”  

Håkan Buskhe had the opportunity to pilot the aircraft himself. He was also fortunate to meet up with one of the brand new Gripen aircraft produced for the Royal Thai Air Force and took part in formation flying. 

 “What I remember most is when we were flying 60 feet above the Baltic Sea and then suddenly afterburner on and we were climbing straight up to 30 000 feet. Like a  rocket.”  

Back on ground again Håkan Buskhe was congratulated by the first Gripen pilot, Stig Holmström, and presented with his own personal desk top model of Gripen D.  

“I don’t believe that I’m a pilot just because I have flown Gripen once, but it is amazing how easy it is to understand the system. Especially with a good instructor like Ola. I knew Gripen was an amazing aircraft, and now I understand why.”  

Håkan Buskhe has previously flown the Saab 105 jet trainer.

This week, the South African Air Force created aviation history. One of the four South African Air Force (SAAF) pilots to successfully complete the first Operational Conversion Course (OCC) instructed by local SAAF pilots, is a woman.

Image: Major Catherine Labuschagne - the first female Gripen pilot. Photo: Craig Nieuwenhuizen, foto24.co.za

Major Catherine Labuschagne, made her solo Gripen flight at the South African airbase Makhado in the Limpopo province of South Africa. This will give her a place in the record books as the first female Gripen pilot.

Major Labuschagne is one of several women serving as pilots in the SAAF and she previously flew the Impala jet before she qualified on the Hawk Lead-In-Fighter trainer to prepare her for the transition to South Africa’s front line fighter.

She did fly in the rear seat of Gripen back in 2004, then making history as the first woman pilot to fly Gripen, this time however, she took to the skies in a single seat Gripen and the instructors at 2 squadron stayed on the ground.
The four newly qualified Gripen fighter pilots will strengthen SAAF and the 2 squadron as they will reach operational status sometime next year when their conversion course is completed.

The South African government ordered 26 Gripen C/D fighter aircraft in 1999 as part of a “strategic defence package”

Recently the SAAF Gripen force, although still in a project phase and not formally an operational system, conducted a large part of the air policing during the FIFA soccer World Cup.

For further information, please contact:

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Saab serves the global market with world-leading products, services and solutions ranging from military defence to civil security. Saab has operations and employees on all continents and constantly develops, adopts and improves new technology to meet customers’ changing needs.

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Saab's products made an impression when Sweden's newly appointed Ambassador to the Czech Republic, Inger Ultvedt, paid a visit to Saab in Linköping last week.

Inger Ultvedt took up her new post as Sweden's Ambassador to the Czech Republic in September, and during her visit to Linköping, Saab wished to demonstrate the Saab Group's strength and breadth in terms of both expertise and products. 

Image: Sweden's Ambassador to the Czech Republic Inger Ultvedt in Gripen during her visit at Saab in Linköping.

Close relations

"For me it seemed important to learn more about the production and Saab, especially since Sweden and the Czech Republic have such close relations. My visit to Saab was interesting and truly exciting. I was greatly impressed to see all the advanced technology contained in Gripen, and I was also impressed by how the offset commitments span such a wide spectrum, with so many industries and jobs in the Czech Republic," says Ultvedt.

Visits and informative briefings 

The schedule included visits to Saab's production and a number of informative briefings about Saab and Gripen generally, but primarily concerning Saab and the Gripen programme in the Czech Republic and regarding Saab's offset commitments in the country. The Ambassador also visited the simulator and Gripen's final assembly facilities, and even got to sit in a complete and powered-up aircraft.     

"We are delighted that the Ambassador chose to come to Saab so soon after assuming her post. Gripen and Saab represent a major part of the relations between Sweden and the Czech Republic," says Bengt Littke, Programme Director for Gripen in the Czech Republic.

Image: Two Gripen from the Czech Air Force. Photo: Milan Nykodym

A world leader 

"Sweden is successful within the defence industry and it became clear that we are a world leader in these areas. I am very proud that our innovation and technology is so strong. I look forward to a continuing positive and progressive cooperation with Saab in this area," Ultvedt concludes.

Over the course of a few hectic days, Saab's new CEO, Håkan Buskhe, has been visiting Brazil in order to acquaint himself with one of Saab's most important emerging markets.

Image: Håkan Buskhe and the Mayor of São Bernardo do Campo, Luíz Marinho. Photo credit: Fredrik Gustafson, Saab.

Saab's President and CEO Håkan Buskhe got the opportunity to discuss the company's offer relating to a possible Gripen deal. His itinerary included a visit to the Brazilian defence company Embraer to discuss the ongoing collaboration and, obviously, the not yet decided procurement of fighter aircraft that includes Gripen among the candidates.

Other visits included the Brazilian Minister for Trade, Miguel Jorge, Defence Minister Nelson Jobim and the Mayor of Sao Bernardo do Campo, Luis Marinho. During his visit to Brasilia, Håkan Buskhe also took the opportunity to visit the Swedish Ambassador to Brazil, Annika Markovic. 

"Brazil is a fascinating country where I see many interesting business opportunities for Saab, both now and in the future," summarises Håkan Buskhe.

"We are serious about our technology transfer"
Saab’s In-Country Director, Mr. Bengt Janér, remarked on the campaign situation: 
"Defence minister Jobim repeated in his meeting with our CEO, Håkan Buskhe, that the decision regarding the future fighter aircraft may be reached in October or November. This week's visits and announcement have placed us in the best conceivable position for a possible decision. Saab has once again shown that we have an extremely competitive offer and that we are serious about our technology transfer and investment in Brazilian industry as a future partner."

During the largest air, army and security show in Central Europe, NATO Days 2010, the Czech Air force celebrated 10,000 flight hours with their fleet of 14 Gripen aircraft. That means an average of more than 140 hours per aircraft and year, which is an impressing achivement.

“In May, we successfully reached half of the lease contract for the Gripen aircraft, and we are very proud that we already have flown 10,000 flight hours on these fighters. It is easy just to say it, but it really means a lot of work, technical skills and capabilities of pilots, as well as of ground crew,” says Verner.

“We are really satisfied with the Gripen program, it works great and we are looking forward to the next five years. I hope that such close cooperation between the Czech and the Swedish Air Force will continue and I wish this program only the best.”

Image: Marking at one of the six Czech Gripen that participated during NATO Days. Photo: Libor Bukavansky

Important milestone 

Major General Anders Silwer, Air Force Inspector and Commander Air Component Command,  Swedish Air Force personally handed over a framed photograph of Gripen to the Czech Air Force Commander, Brigadier General Jiří Verner to commemorate this important milestone of the Czech-Swedish government to government cooperation.  

Image: Major General Anders Silwer, Air Force Inspector and Commander Air Component Command,  Swedish Air Force hands over a photograph to the Czech Air Force Commander, Brigadier General Jiří Verner. Photo: Libor Bukavansky 

Thales yesterday announced the delivery to Saab of its Digital Joint Reconnaissance Pod (DJRP), for installation on the South African Gripen. The announcement was made during the Africa Aerospace & Defence exhibition in Cape Town. Saab will now start a series of integration flight trials.

The DJRP completed its factory integration tests in June and will now be installed on the Gripen platform. Handover of the reconnaissance pod to the South African Air Force (SAAF) will occur after the integration phase.

Christian Lamoureux, CEO of Thales South Africa, says: “We are proud of this important milestone in our long-standing relationship with the South African Air Force.”

The DJRP is integrated onto fighter aircraft, such as the Gripen, and takes high-resolution images of the battlefield as it flies overhead. The digital images from the pod are then exploited by Image Analysts on the ground to assess what tactical decisions need to be taken.

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During the weekend, NATO Days was held in Ostrava, the Czech Republic. This is Central Europe's largest event within aviation, military and civil security, and Saab was general sponsor.

The organisers estimated more than 150,000 participants during the weekend. The majority were families and others with an interest in aviation and the military, but there were also numerous important delegations and senior representatives from the Czech government, the Air Force and other authorities.

Major provider in the Czech Republic

 "Saab is one of the biggest defence providers in the Czech Republic, and the region is important to us. This also applies to Saab's other business areas, above all within civil security. It is important that we are visible and present during Nato Days, not just in order to have the opportunity to demonstrate our products and forge contacts, but also to show our support to the Czech Air Force, who are satisfied with Gripen," says Daniel Boestad, campaign manager for Gripen in the Czech Republic.

Image: Major General Anders Silwer, Chief of Staff, Swedish Air Force, presented a framed photograph of Gripen to the Czech Air Force Commander, Brigadier General Jiří Verner.

10,000 flying hours

In June of this year, the Czech Air Force passed 10,000 flying hours with their 14 Gripen aircraft. This equates to more than 140 flying hours annually per aircraft, which is an impressive number of hours for the 5 years they have been operating Gripen. Because of this, Major General Anders Silwer, Chief of Staff, Swedish Air Force, presented a framed photograph of Gripen to the Czech Air Force Commander, Brigadier General Jiří Verner, at a ceremony on Saab's stand.

"We have now passed half way through the lease of our aircraft, and I am very pleased with Gripen. Everything is working very well, and I look forward to at least another five years," remarked General Verner.

The Gripen NG Demo is now flying with new extra large drop-tanks. Instead of the more traditional 300 gallon tanks used by Gripen C/D these new external tanks can carry 450 gallons of fuel each.

Image: The new drop-tanks are here seen in a combination with IRIS-T, Meteor and Paveway. Photo credit: Stefan Kalm. 

Longer range 
Combined with added spaces for internal fuel and a more fuel efficient engine Gripen NG will get substantially longer range and more time on station. The new drop-tanks are made by RUAG in Switzerland.

Images available
Images of Gripen NG Demo flying with the new drop-tanks are available in Saab’s Image bank.

The Czech Air Force recently presented a great looking Gripen when they celebrated 10 000 flight hours with the Czech Gripen fleet.

Well in time for the upcoming NATO Tiger Meet 2010, one of their Gripen has got an eye catching special Tiger colour scheme, as the canards has cat eyes all over the upper surfaces.

This makes two Tiger Gripen within the Czech Air Force. There is another from last year still flying with special Tiger markings.

Image: Czech Gripen with cat eyes on the upper surfaces of the canards. Photo credit: Milan Nykodym.

Defence and security company Saab has received an order from FMV (the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration) regarding the integration of the active radar-guided Beyond Visual Range (BVR) missile, Meteor. The order is worth MSEK 312 spread over four years.

The Royal Thai Air Force is now a full member of the Gripen User Group, joining Sweden, Hungary, the Czech Republic and South Africa.

Image: General John Bayne, South African Air Force, Chief Marshal Itthaporn Subhawong, Royal Thai Air Force, Major General Anders Silwer, Swedish Air Force, Major General Zoltan Pinter, Hungarian Air Force and Brigadier General Jiri Verner, Czech Air Force.

Gripen User Group

The Gripen User Group is a forum for Air Forces operating Gripen, providing members a unique opportunity for multinational cooperation. The group shares experiences about using the Gripen system, enabling a cost effective way for the operators to jointly develop and upgrade the system. Upgrades to Gripen are made frequently during the aircraft’s life-cycle, allowing Gripen to remain one of the most advanced fighter aircraft in the world.

More information

> The Thai programme

> Gripen Customers

At a ceremony at Saab’s factory in Linköping on the 18th of August, Saab unveiled the Thai integrated air defence system for its Thai customer. The ceremony was held to celebrate the contract between Sweden and Thailand.

Image: Gripen and Saab 340 Erieye AEW for the Royal Thai Air Force during todays ceremony at Saab in Linköping, Sweden. Photo: Per Kustvik. 

Many prominent guests attended the event including Commander in Chief, ACM Itthaporn Subhawong from the Royal Thai Air force, Gunnar Holmgren, General Director for the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV), Sten Tolgfors, Swedish Minister for Defence and Åke Svensson CEO for Saab.

Image: Commander in Chief, ACM Itthaporn Subhawong from the Royal Thai Air Force. Photo: Saab/Per Kustvik

"I want to congratulate Thailand for an excellent air defense system and I look forward to our continued cooperation" says Sten Tolgfors, Swedish Minister for Defence.
	Image: Swedish Minister for Defence Sten Tolgfors. Photo: Saab/Per Kustvik.

Image: Gunnar Holmgen, General Director for the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) and Åke Svensson CEO for Saab. Photo: Saab/Per Kustvik

The Royal Thai Air Force has procured an integrated air defence system with Gripen C/D, the ERIEYE airborne early warning system and a Command and Control C2 system including data link communication. In combination with bilateral co-operation mainly focused on technology transfer, this will provide Thailand with the foundation for an advanced network based defence system.

The Royal Thai Air Force will receive six of the latest version Gripen C/D multirole fighter aircraft at the beginning of 2011. One ERIEYE Airborne Early Warning radar system aboard a Saab 340 aircraft and one additional Saab 340 aircraft will be delivered in December 2010. One Command and Control C2 system including equipment for three ground based Radio sites will be delivered in March 2011.

The first Thai Gripen aircraft made its maiden flight on 16 September 2009 and Thai pilots, technicians and aviation mechanics responsible for maintenance and support of the aircraft have started their training at the Armed Force Technical School (Air Force) in Halmstad and at F 7 Såtenäs.

Royal Thai Air Force annual Thai press trip to Wing 7 in Surat Thani. RTAF Gripen was the main theme for this year.

Image: RTAF spokesman Gp. Capt. Monthon Satchukorn surrounded by two senior reporters, Ms. Anukul and Ms. Nupatrinee from Sai Klang newspaper in Bangkok.

More than 50 Bangkok based Thai journalists and photographers flew to RTAF Wing 7 in Surat Thani 8 and 9 July to join local media and dignitaries from Surat Thani province when the Royal Thai Airforce arranged its annual press tour 2010 for domestic media in Thailand. The theme was RTAF´s Gripen project.

Six Gripen C/D made by Saab arrive at Wing 7 early 2011 while one Saab 340 AEW Erieye aircraft outfitted for RTAF will be delivered late this year to the air base.

Included in the package is pilot and technician training in Sweden, and an advanced air defence infrastructure to Thailand, which together with the new aircraft creates a strong network centric operations environment for RTAF. RTAF´s delegation to Wing 7 was led by Air Force Commander ACM Ittaporn Supawong and RTAF Chief of Staff ACM Prachin Jantong.

After initial remarks by ACM Ittaporn, one of the RTAF Gripen pilots, Wing Commander  Charoen Watanasrimongkol, described the training programme he and his three collegues undergo in Sweden in order to become fully fledged Gripen pilots. He was followed by Wing 7 Commander, Group Captain Saritporn Suntornkit, who gave a presentation to the press about the general progress of the project at Wing 7.

The Thai press was also shown ongoing construction of new hangars and other buildings that will host the Saab Gripen aircraft, command and control center and other support functions at Wing 7.

Image: The traditional group photo of media representatives and air force officials taken outside one of the new buildings that will support RTAF´s Gripen and Saab aircraft at Wing 7 in Surat Thani. RTAF Commander ACM Ittaporn Supawong, front row in the middle.

About the Thai agreement

In 2008, Thailand ordered a complete aircraft and command and control system from the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) in a Government to Government deal. The order includes a first batch of six Gripen C/D with associated equipment and service, one Saab 340 aircraft equipped with Erieye radar (AEW), a Saab 340 for transport and training plus an integrated command and control system with data links.

The tests were held at the SAAF (South African Air Force) test area at Overberg, in South Africa. Gripen was chosen as the platform for these integration tests and has completed them with outstanding results.

“The test firing is an important milestone in the Gripen program. The A-Darter missile is a collaboration and development project within the missile area between local industry, Denel Dynamics, South Africa, and Brazil, where Saab has a leading role for the integration of complex future missile systems. Denel Dynamics is the OEM of the A-Darter missile and have contributed significantly to the integration effort”, says Ulf Nilsson responsible for the Gripen program within Aeronautics at Saab.

The A-Darter is a fifth-generation short-range air-to-air missile to be used during aerial combat with the new generation of fighter aircraft. In South Africa it will be operational on Gripen and in Brazil it is the weapon of choice for the future fighters of the F-X2 programme.

“The A-Darter and the Gripen aircraft have worked beyond our expectations and we are extremely pleased with the test firing results”, says Magnus Reineholm Project Manager for the integration of A-Darter at Saab.

Beside the A-Darter programme Saab is also taking part in the Meteor missile programme, which also is an international cooperation between leading aerospace companies in Europe. The Swedish Government has also approved the order of the Meteor on Gripen for the Swedish Air Force.

These missile integrations and the order of the Meteor missile shows the commitment that Saab, the Swedish Government and our customers have in the Gripen system to keep it at the forefront of technology.

Gripen NG Demonstrator will be displayed to the public for the first time outside Sweden. The event will take place in the UK during the Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT) in Fairford 17–18 July and the following week at the Farnborough International Airshow.

The fighter will be arriving in Farnborough on Monday, 19 July and will be on static display until Friday 23 July.

Gripen NG Demonstrator is a flying platform for the development of new technologies and features incorporated into the Gripen NG – the next generation fighter with significantly increased combat range and endurance, increased payload and super-cruise capability.

“The extensive flight test programme with Gripen NG Demonstrator aircraft continues successfully and according to plan at the Saab facilities in Linköping, Sweden. This gives us the unique opportunity to bring the aircraft to UK during the Swedish summer holiday break,” says Lennart Sindahl, Senior Vice President Saab AB and Head of Business Area Aeronautics.

Previously, the Gripen NG Demonstrator has only been outside Sweden once. This was in May this year when it flew from Sweden to India, where evaluation trials were conducted by the Indian Air Force. This demanding evaluation phase included operations at the Indian air base Leh, situated 3300 meters above sea level. During this time, the aircraft also passed its 150th flight and to date it has conducted more than 175 sucessful flights.

The Gripen NG Programme offers a completely new avionics systems structure which will guarantee over 100% spare computing capacity and 30% spare capacity in all of the aircraft systems. The new structure makes it very easy and cost-effective to incorporate new functionality or integrate new hardware which in turn ensures that Gripen maintains its world leading capability throughout its service life.

Saab is now testing all the tactical systems, such as the AESA radar and the new communications system.

“The test programme is very extensive, we have finished, and successfully verified, the flight tests of the electro-optical Missile Approach Warning System (MAWS) and the new fuel system with larger internal fuel tanks,” says Mattias Bergström, the Gripen NG Demonstrator project manager.

The results of the Gripen NG Demonstrator Program will be used in both existing and new versions of the Gripen specifically tailored to the needs of specific customers, both nationally and for export.

Successful Partnership

A partnership between Saab, the Swedish Government and some of the world’s leading aerospace companies has been established to support and fund the Gripen NG Demonstrator Programme. The programme is aimed at demonstrating a range of future technologies and capabilities to ensure that Gripen remains at the leading edge of fighter aircraft performance and capability well beyond 2040.

During a recent official visit to the Czech Republic, the Commander of the Bulgarian Air Force Major-General Konstantin Popov flew the multirole Gripen fighter.

Image: Czech Gripen at take-off. Photo: Per Kustvik, Condesign.

Major-General Popov was invited by Brigadier General Jiri Verner, who is Commander of the Czech Air Force. During the visit they discussed the possibilities for bilateral cooperation and the use of modern equipment by the Air Force. Brigadier General Verner acquainted his colleague with the Czech experience of operating Gripen. They also visited the training centre in Pardubice where the Czech Air Force training programmes take place.

Modernisation of the Bulgarian Air Force
Saab is committed to the process of modernising the Bulgarian Air Force and hopes for a transparent tender for the acquisition of fighters expected in 2012.

In 2004, the Czech Republic signed an agreement with Sweden regarding the lease of 14 of the latest generation Gripen aircraft (12 single-seat and 2 two-seat) for a period of ten years (2005-2015) to replace its Russian-designed MiG-21 fighters.

Gripen International has announced succesfull fulfillment of the second contractual milestone of the Programme of Industrial Cooperation accompanying the lease of 14 Gripen fighters provided by the Swedish government. According to the Annual Report on Offset performance for the calendar year 2009, approved by the Czech Ministry of Defence, the Gripen offset programme has by the December 31st 2009 generated 19.92 billion CZK of cummulative offset value for the Czech Republic.

Saab has received an order from the Swedish Defence Material Administration, FMV, for the continuous support of Gripen’s operational capacity. The contract is valued to MSEK 230.

Last week the Gripen NG demo was making its Iinternational debut by taking part in the last phase of the Indian evaluation trials for the MMRCA (Medium Multi- Role Combat Aircraft) tender in India.

To date the aircraft has flown some 135 test flights in Sweden and is now testing its wings abroad, showing the international arena that next generation Gripen fighter development is on track.  

"This achievement just shows the expertise and high technology capability that Sweden boasts in developing and manufacturing a fighter aircraft of this calibre. Several International pilots have already flown and evaluated the Gripen NG demo in Sweden, including pilots from Brazil and India and we are confident that this aircraft meets, or exceeds every operational requirement raised by the Indian Air Force," says Eddy de la Motte, Gripen Campaign Director, India.  

The harsh environment of the Leh airbase, 3300m high up in the Himalayas, proved to be no match for the Swedish fighter where it cleared the high altitude trials.

The Gripen NG demo is the flying platform which is being used to train and develop the new technologies and features incorporated into the Gripen NG. The Gripen NG has been specifically developed to meet the operational requirements of countries such as India and Brazil, which requires a next generation fighter with significantly increased combat range and endurance, increased payload and super cruise capability.

Saab has received an order from the Swedish Defence Material Administration for development of the reconnaissance system in the Gripen. 

The order is worth approximately SEK 400 million, distributed over four years. It entails development of night capacity and an improved user interface for the reconnaissance pod on the Gripen.

The reconnaissance pod gives the aircraft a photo-reconnaissance function and is a significant component in the Gripen's overall reconnaissance capabilities. The system is modular and has considerable potential for further development. 

"Saab's expertise in sensors and image processing is world-class and we are looking forward to working with the Swedish Defence Material Administration and the Swedish Armed Forces to further improve the Gripen's reconnaissance capabilities," says Micael Johansson, head of the Electronic Defence Systems business area.

Flexible System Approach
The Modular Reconnaissance Pod System (MRPS) is fully digitised and is built around three main system elements - the Sensor fit, the Digital Mass Memory and the Reconnaissance Management System.

The MRPS provides customers with a maximum of flexibility in tailoring the sensor suite to operational requirements for airborne tactical reconnaissance. It has provisions for both day and night capability is designed for optimum performance and can be carried on various aircraft platforms. Further on it is easily integrated into the aircraft avionics by a MIL-STD-1553B data bus and a video interface to the displays in the cockpit.

The flight test programme with Gripen NG Demonstrator continues according to plan at the Saab facilities in Linköping. The latest flight, number 117 since the flight test programme started, was flown today.

Image: The Gripen NG Demonstrator on the runway after a test flight on 12 March 2010. Photo: Stefan Kalm/Saab

We are now testing all the tactical systems, such as the AESA radar and the new communications system. The test programme is very extensive, and the unusually harsh cold and snowy winter here in Sweden has challenged the programme schedule but we are now quickly catching up, says Mattias Bergström, the Gripen NG Demonstrator project manager.

We have finished, and successfully verified, the flight tests of the electro-optical Missile Approach Warning System (MAW) and the new fuel system with larger internal fuel tanks.

The Gripen NG is the next generation of the Gripen fighter, which is in service with the air forces of Sweden, the Czech Republic, Hungary and South Africa. It is also ordered by the Royal Thai Air Force and is flown by the Empire Test Pilots School, ETPS, in the UK.

Saab has received an order from the Swedish Defence Material Administration, FMV, for the continuous support of Gripen’s operational capacity. The contract is valued to 230 million SEK.

Defence and security company Saab has received an order from the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) regarding spare parts for the current Gripen fleet. The order amounts to SEK 200 million.

Saab has submitted an update on the proposal offering 36 Gripen Next Generation (NG) to the Brazilian Air Force (FAB).

Saab's contract concerning the provision of spare parts to the Swedish Armed Forces has been extended for a further 3 years. The order is valued at MSEK 162.

Defence and security company Saab has received an order valued at approx. MSEK 350 from FMV (the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration) for development of the Gripen system.

Saab and SELEX Galileo will enter co-operative development of an Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) Radar for the Gripen Next Generation (NG) programme.

Saab has received an order from the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration, FMV, for studies during 2009 regarding future capabilities for the Gripen multi-role fighter. The contract value is 400 million SEK.

Saab has today handed in its offer for 36 Gripen NG (Next Generation) fighter aircraft to the Brazilian Air Force.

Saab has received an order from the Swedish Defence Material Administration, FMV, for supporting Gripen’s operative capacity. The contract is valued to 550 million SEK.

The Gripen NG (Next Generation) multi-role fighter is on the short list as one alternative to equip the Brazilian Air Force.

“Our answer to the Request for Information (RFI) that we handed in to the Brazilian Air Force in August includes a fighter that perfectly fits their needs, as well as full support regarding spare parts, logistics and training”, explains Bengt Janér, marketing director for Brazil, Gripen International.

Saab’s response also confirms the willingness to include Brazilian industry, share know how, and transfer the most modern technology existing today. The Gripen NG offer from Saab is supported by the Swedish Government.

“We are pleased to be included by the Brazilian Air Force in the ongoing selection process and are ready to submit at very attractive proposal”, says Lennart Sindahl, Executive Vice President, Saab.


Saab serves the global market with world-leading products, services and solutions ranging from military defence to civil security. Saab has operations and employees on all continents and constantly develops, adopts and improves new technology to meet customers’ changing needs.

For further information, please contact:
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www.saabgroup.com

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Saab has today responded to the F16 replacement questionnaire issued by the Dutch Ministry of Defence, offering 85 Gripen NG (Next Generation) to the Royal Netherlands Air Force.

The response is an all inclusive package with 85 Gripen NG, training, spares, simulators and support at a price that meets the Dutch defence budget plans.

Saab is prepared to offer industrial co-operation to at least 100 percent of the total value of a possible contract, which would generate economic benefits and employment within Dutch high-tech industry.

Gripen NG is a true multi-role fighter aircraft, fulfilling all the capabilities the Royal Netherlands Air Force has specified in its request, such as combat range and endurance, weapons carriage capability, engine thrust and super cruise capability.

More details on the Gripen offer to the Netherlands will be presented at a press conference in
Den Haag on Tuesday.


Saab serves the global market with world-leading products, services and solutions ranging from military defence to civil security. Saab has operations and employees on all continents and constantly develops, adopts and improves new technology to meet customers’ changing needs.

For further information, please contact:
Saab Press Centre, +46 (0)734 180 018

www.saabgroup.com


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Monday saw the start of the world’s largets air show, Farnborough International Air Show, outside London. Saab’s participation includes a press conference with CEO Åke Svensson on Monday morning.

Svensson introduced his presentation at the press conference by emphasizing the breadth of Saab, quoting important orders received within Saab’s three business segments; Thailand’s Gripen order, the order for the AT4 and Carl-Gustaf anti-tank systems for USA, Giraffe surveillance radar system from the United Kingdom, and the order for command & control systems for Australia’s new amphibious vessels at the end of 2007.

He continued by highlighting three important events during the year that clearly signal Saab’s future potential. Svensson pointed out the uniqueness of a company, which in the space of a few months is able to present to the world market and fly systems as varied as the demonstrator version of Gripen and the airborne surveillance system Saab 2000 ERIEYE AEW&C. Thirdly Åke Svensson talked about the investment that Saab is making within the area of civil security. A new business unit, Saab Security, was created on 1st July and Saab has already secured strategically important orders from infrastructural facilities in Sweden, such as nuclear power plants, ports and airports.

The importance of partnerships in different ventures was a feature of Saab’s presence at the Farnborough International Air show. In the Gripen demonstrator programme, Saab has gathered a number of leading aircraft companies as risk sharing partners, and the company is itself involved as a sub-contractor and risk sharing partner for Airbus and Boeing. Saab is also an international partner in different development programmes. Åke Svensson referred to the company’s leading role in the Neuron programme and a number of international missile programmes as examples. Saab has also taken a leading role within international research and development programmes directed at environmental problems, for instance. Åke Svensson mentioned Saab’s participation in the EU project Clean Sky and the Nordic collaboration, Nordic Climate Cluster.

In his conclusion, Åke Svensson stated that Saab’s future will be heavily influenced by Gripen’s export success, as interest in Gripen remains strong. At present, there are binding Gripen tenders for Denmark, Norway, India, Romania and Switzerland. In addition, Saab has responded to, or is working on responses to requests for information of differing degrees from Bulgaria, Croatia, Brazil and the Netherlands. Saab is also marketing Gripen in several other countries. Åke Svensson reiterated the company’s business objective of selling at least 200 aircraft on the world market.

The presentation is available as a pdf file on Saabs web site, www.saabgroup.com.

Saab serves the global market with world-leading products, services and solutions ranging from military defence to civil security. Saab has operations and employees on all continents and constantly develops, adopts and improves new technology to meet customers’ changing needs.

For further information, please contact:
Toni Eriksson, Acting Press secretary, Saab AB
Telephone: +46 (0)734-180 018

www.saabgroup.com

The information is that which Saab AB is required to declare by the Securities Business Act and/or the Financial instruments Trading Act. The information was submitted for publication on 14 July at 10.30.

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This week, as Saab takes part in the world’s largest air show, Farnborough International Air Show, outside London, the world market’s interest in Gripen is greater than ever.

Gripen have six customers at present. In addition to Sweden, the NATO member countries of Hungary and the Czech Republic both operate the aircraft, and the UK ETPS (Empire Test Pilots School) uses Gripen as its training platform. In February Thailand placed an order for Gripen and deliveries to South Africa have been underway since April this year.

At present, there are binding Gripen tenders for Denmark, Norway, India, Romania and Switzerland. In addition, Saab has responded to, or is working on responses to requests for information of differing degrees from Bulgaria, Croatia, Brazil and the Netherlands. Saab is also marketing Gripen in several other countries.

“Saab’s business objective to sell at least 200 Gripen aircraft on the world market remains”, says Saab’s CEO Åke Svensson.

Countries and requested number of aircraft
Denmark 48 aircraft
Norway 48 aircraft
India 126 aircraft
Romania 48 aircraft
Switzerland App. 30 aircraft

Bulgaria 16 aircraft
Croatia 12 aircraft
Brazil 36 aircraft
The Netherlands 85 aircraft

Saab serves the global market with world-leading products, services and solutions ranging from military defence to civil security. Saab has operations and employees on all continents and constantly develops, adopts and improves new technology to meet customers’ changing needs.

For further information, please contact:
Toni Eriksson, Acting Press secretary, Saab AB
Telephone: +46 (0)734-180 018

www.saabgroup.com

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Saab has received orders from the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration, FMV, for electronic warfare systems and supplementary weapons pylons for Gripen to a total value of 574 MSEK.

The order for Electronic Warfare Systems (EWS) means that the aircraft will be equipped with antennae, transmitters and computers to interfere with enemy air and ground forces. The order is valued at 324 MSEK and deliveries will be made 2008-2009.

The supplements for weapons pylons means that the aircraft will be able to use GPS equipped weapons systems. The order is worth 250 MSEK and deliveries will take place 2009-2011.


Saab serves the global market with world-leading products, services and solutions ranging from military defence to civil security. Saab has operations and employees on all continents and constantly develops, adopts and improves new technology to meet customers’ changing needs.

For further information, please contact:
Toni Eriksson, Acting Press secretary, Saab AB
Telephone: +46 (0)734-180 018

www.saabgroup.com

The information is that which Saab AB is required to declare by the Securities Business Act and/or the Financial instruments Trading Act. The information was submitted for publication on 8 July at 14.15.

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Saab has today submitted a Gripen proposal to Switzerland. The proposal was handed over to the Swiss department for procurement of technologically complex systems and defence technology, armasuisse, in Berne.

The proposal is a response to the Request for Proposal (RFP) which armasuisse issued January 7, 2008. Switzerland has a need to replace its fighter aircraft F-5E/F Tiger and Gripen is one of three potential suppliers. The exact number of required aircraft has not been disclosed by armasuisse.

Saabs CEO Åke Svensson is delighted over the Swiss interest in Gripen: ”Switzerland is yet another example of the strong interest for Gripen worldwide. Our proposal meets all the requirements put forward by armasuisse. The Gripen proposal offers Switzerland the most cost-effective and proportionate replacement for the F-5E/F and moreover a perfect force fit with existing F/A-18 C/D. The proposal also features long-term viable industrial co-operation at 100 per cent of the contract value.”

Saab serves the global market with world-leading products, services and solutions ranging from military defence to civil security. Saab has operations and employees on all continents and constantly develops, adopts and improves new technology to meet customers’ changing needs.

For further information, please contact:
Manne K A Koerfer, Campaign Director Switzerland, Gripen International AB
Telephone: +41 (0)797 066 835
Toni Eriksson, Acting Press secretary, Saab AB
Telephone: +46 (0)734-18 00 18

www.saabgroup.com

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Today at 10.55 – 11.25 Saab conducted the maiden flight with the Gripen Demo, the test bed for the further development of Gripen. The flight lasted for 30 minutes and went totally according to plan.

“We’re flying what in many aspects is a completely new aircraft a month after Roll-Out. This is quite unique and it shows Gripen’s opportunities for further development. It also shows our own ability to develop new, more efficient working methods.” says Lars-Erik Svedlund, Saab’s project manager for the Gripen demonstrator programme.

Since the Gripen Demo was presented, the programme has proceeded with ground trials and continual evaluations in order to guarantee flight safety. Tuesday’s flight took place in good weather from Saab’s airfield in Linköping and was conducted according to a well-rehearsed schedule.

“Everything went according to plan. The Gripen Demo is more powerful compared to earlier versions of Gripen but is just as easily flown. We look forward to continuing the test programme at the same high pace as up to now.” says test pilot Mikael Seidl, who together with his colleague Magnus Ljungdahl crewed the first flight.

The Gripen Demo is a flying test bed for the next generation of Gripen and for the further development of present versions. The aircraft has a new, more powerful engine and a new radar. Gripen will be able to carry heavier loads and has a longer range.

The Gripen test bed is realized in partnership with several of the world’s leading companies within the aviation industry: General Electric, Thales, Rockwell Collins, Honeywell, APPH, Terma, Martin-Baker and Meggitt.

More information about the Gripen demonstrator programme as well as still pictures and video from the maiden flight will shortly be available at www.saabgroup.com and www.gripen.com.

Saab serves the global market with world-leading products, services and solutions ranging from military defence to civil security. Saab has operations and employees on all continents and constantly develops, adopts and improves new technology to meet customers’ changing needs.

For further information, please contact:
Toni Eriksson, Acting Press secretary, Saab AB
Telephone: +46 (0)734-18 00 18

www.saabgroup.com

The information is that which Saab AB is required to declare by the Securities Business Act and/or the Financial instruments Trading Act. The information was submitted for publication on May 27 at 11.50.

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Saab is planning for extensive industrial cooperation with Norwegian industry in connection with a potential Gripen deal. As a part of this Saab has signed cooperation agreements with Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace, Norwegian Thales, Nammo, Simrad Optronics, Natech and TotAl-group.

In the next few years Norway will be renewing its aircraft fleet and has asked for binding information for up to 48 fighter aircraft. Saab is offering Gripen next generation, which is now under development. It can be delivered from 2016 and is a fully Nato-compatible aircraft fulfilling all Norwegian requirements.

A Gripen deal will generate extensive cooperation and development of new technologies together with Norwegian industry.

“We are convinced that our offer provides a historical opportunity for strong and long lasting relations between Norway and Sweden in defence and security related areas as well as a broad range of industrial sectors. Up to date we have identified more than 200 partners in all of the Norwegian fylker. Today we can guarantee an industrial cooperation in excess of 100 percent of order value. Further more we can see a potential business value of at least an additional 100 percent within defence and non-defence sectors.” says Saab’s CEO Åke Svensson.

The cooperation agreement with Kongsberg Defence & Aerospace (KDA) spread over 10-15 years covers the areas of aviation, space, defence and civil security. Cooperation with KDA includes advanced composite production and development for both military and commercial aeronautics and development, integration and marketing of the JSM missile. Total business value more than 12 billions NOK.

Thales Norway will deliver important parts of Gripen, foremost within data link communication, SATCOM and Nato interoperable crypto solutions. Thales Norway and Saab are also planning extensive cooperations in other defence communications areas. Total business value more than 2 billions NOK.

Nammo will develop 27 mm APEX ammunitions for Gripen and Counter Rocket-Artillery-Mortars. Total business valuemore than 1 billion NOK.

Together with Simrad a new company is formed for development and world wide marketing of various products including high tech optronics. The agreement also includes the establishment of a ISTAR/UAV center of excellence. Total business value more than 6 billions NOK.

The agreement with Natech includes production of cabling, panels and racks for Gripen and electromechanical manufacturing for several other Saab military products in Narvik. TotAl-group will design and produce Gripen structural parts and complete assemblies.

Saab serves the global market with world-leading products, services and solutions ranging from military defence to civil security. Saab has operations and employees on all continents and constantly develops, adopts and improves new technology to meet customers’ changing needs.

For further information, please contact:
Toni Eriksson, Acting Press secretary, Saab AB
Telephone: +46 (0)734-18 00 18

www.saabgroup.com

The information is that which Saab AB is required to declare by the Securities Business Act and/or the Financial instruments Trading Act. The information was submitted for publication on 28rd April at 12.00.

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On behalf of the Swedish Government, FMV (Swedish Defence Materiel Administration) today handed over Sweden’s proposal regarding Norway’s Future Combat Aircraft. The 48 Gripen fighters that Sweden has offered to Norway meets all the requirements that Norway has specified in the request documentation for the Royal Norwegian Air Force Future Combat Aircraft.

The Gripen fighter for Norway is a true swing-role next generation combat fighter to meet Norway’s needs for the defence of its national territory, including surveillance of the high North, and participation in international, multi-national forces. Gripen is fully NATO interoperable, can carry a wide range of internationally sourced weapons, includes increased combat range and endurance, additional weapons carriage capability and increased payload, a more powerful engine and super cruise capability. The proposal also includes a joint logistic solution and other areas of multinational cooperation that will reduce the operational cost for both countries.

Besides the operational requirements the Swedish offer meets the Norwegian requirements regarding life cycle costs, and the Swedish offer includes very low acquisition, operation and support costs compared to alternative platforms.

–I am proud to say that the offer we have delivered today meets, or exceeds, all Norwegian operational and other requirements. This has been possible through a jointly effort between the Swedish Government, FMV and Swedish industry and we are confident that the Swedish offer is the complete solution to meet Norway’s future combat aircraft requirements, says Gunnar Holmgren, Director General of FMV.

An integral part of the Swedish offer to Norway is a commitment on the part of the Swedish Government to operate the same advanced version of the Gripen fighter aircraft as offered to Norway, in the event that Norway selects Gripen as its future combat aircraft. This offer creates a win-win situation for both countries, as they would not only share the development costs for the new fighter but would also share future enhancements over the future operational life of Gripen fighter aircraft for the next 30-40 years.

For further information please contact Ulf Lindström, Communications Manager at FMV, cell phone + 46 70 982 63 96, E-mail: ulf.l...@fmv.se

FMV creates the defence equipment of the future for the total defence organisation. We identify, propose and introduce innovative, technically advanced and cost-effective equipment. With high defence and system development expertise gathered under professional project management, we collaborate with industry, the total defence organisation and civil authorities, both nationally and internationally.

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In Oslo today the Swedish Defence Material Administration FMV, on behalf of the Swedish government, handed-over its compliant response to the Norwegian Ministry of Defence Request for Binding Information for up to 48 Gripen for the Royal Norwegian Air Force.

“We have equipped Gripen next generation with a more powerful engine and a completely new modular avionics system. The aircraft will have a greater payload and a longer range. In addition we will develop a completely new type of radar. The development will mean that Gripen will be able to maintain its position at the cutting edge of development for the next 30 - 40 years. Gripen meets all Norwegian requirements.” says Åke Svensson, CEO of Saab. “

“The Swedish offer also includes a broad spectrum of Swedish cooperation with Norwegian industries all over Norway, exceeding 100 percent of the Gripen order value.” Continues Åke Svensson.


For further information, please contact:
Toni Eriksson, Acting Press secretary, Saab AB
Telephone: +46 (0)734-18 00 18

www.saabgroup.com

The information is that which Saab AB is required to declare by the Securities Business Act and/or the Financial instruments Trading Act. The information was submitted for publication on 28rd April at 9.00 AM.

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In New Delhi today Saab handed-over its compliant response to the Indian Ministry of Defence Request for Proposal for 126 Medium Multi-Role Combat Aircraft (MMRCA) for the Indian Air Force.

Saab has offered the Indian Air Force the next generation Gripen, which includes increased combat range and endurance, a more powerful engine and super cruise capability, additional weapons carriage capability and increased payload. The Saab offer is supported by a long term programme of industrial co-operation and offset and of technology transfer. Saab’s international industrial network will provide substantial and long-term joint venture growth for the Indian aerospace and defence sector.

Saab President and CEO Åke Svensson stated “The compliant proposal submitted today, demonstrates our commitment to winning the Indian government’s MMRCA tender” he said. “I am confident that Saab has submitted the complete solution to India’s requirements. We are offering cutting edge, next generation combat aircraft and extensive industrial co-operation, including unrivalled access to key technologies, enabling autonomy and increased national security for India.”

Saab serves the global market with world-leading products, services and solutions ranging from military defence to civil security. Saab has operations and employees on all continents and constantly develops, adopts and improves new technology to meet customers’ changing needs.

For further information, please contact:
Owe Wagermark, Communications Director Gripen International (Gripen Demo)
Telephone: +46 (0)734-18 18 24
Toni Eriksson, Acting Press secretary, Saab AB
Telephone: +46 (0)734-18 00 18

www.saabgroup.com

The information is that which Saab AB is required to declare by the Securities Business Act and/or the Financial instruments Trading Act. The information was submitted for publication on 28rd April at 8.15 AM.

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Gripen Demo, a new flying development platform for current and future generations of Gripen, is unvealed today for the first time. One of the new features is a completely new radar, that Saab is developing in collaboration with the French company Thales.

“We have equipped this aircraft with a new stronger engine and a completely new modular avionics system. The aircraft will have a greater payload and a longer range. In addition, Saab, together with Thales, will develop a completely new type of radar. The development will mean that Gripen will be able to maintain its position at the cutting edge of development for the next 30 - 40 years. Gripen Demo will fly for the first time during 2008,” says Åke Svensson, CEO of Saab.

The flying test platform, Gripen Demo, will be used to introduce new technology and functions to Gripen. The new capabilities could be the basis for a totally new version and will be completely or partially integrated into current versions of Gripen.

The development of Gripen is done in collaboration with some of the world’s leading companies within the aircraft industry: General Electric, Volvo Aero, Rockwell Collins, Honeywell, APPH, Terma, Martin-Baker and Meggitt. The latest in the line is Thales, which means that two of the world’s leading radar developers are now collaborating to equip Gripen with the most advanced AESA radar technology (Active Electronically Scanned Array).

Saab serves the global market with world-leading products, services and solutions ranging from military defence to civil security. Saab has operations and employees on all continents and constantly develops, adopts and improves new technology to meet customers’ changing needs.

For further information, please contact:
Toni Eriksson, Acting Press secretary, Saab AB
Telephone: +46 (0)734-18 00 18
Owe Wagermark, Communications Director Gripen International (Gripen Demo)
Telephone: +46 (0)734-18 18 24
Evakarin Nilsson, Communications Director, Saab Microwave Systems (AESA radar)
Telephone: +46 (0)31 794 871 21, +46 (0)73 437 87 12

www.saabgroup.com

The information is that which Saab AB is required to declare by the Securities Business Act and/or the Financial instruments Trading Act. The information was submitted for publication on 23rd April at 08.00.

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Test pilot students at the renowned Empire Test Pilots’ School (ETPS), MOD Boscombe Down in the United Kingdom, will continue to have access to fly Sweden´s new generation Gripen fighter under the recently signed agreement with Saab.

The agreement marks the 10th anniversary of collaboration between Saab and ETPS, which is an integral part of the UK Aircraft Test and Evaluation Centre (ATEC), and is operated by QinetiQ in partnership with the UK MOD.

This new agreement for 2008 will mirror the structured approach of the successful 2005-2007 campaigns, with two flying training campaigns in Sweden per year. The 2008 training campaigns will be for seven international students, each of whom will fly up to 11 hours on Gripen across seven sorties with their ETPS Instructor Pilots (IP’s).

"Saab is delighted that ETPS has chosen to further extend the training of its students on the Gripen. We have a high degree of interest in the art of flight test, so we are happy to co-operate with such a prestigious flight test school and expose our aircraft to such high-level personnel. We are also fully committed to supporting the future aspirations the ETPS may have for Gripen", says Lennart Sindahl, Executive Vice President of Saab.

Since 1999, ETPS has included Gripen in its test pilot training courses, working in conjunction with Saab. Groups of trainees and their instructor pilots (IP’s) have gone to Sweden to experience Gripen´s advanced cockpit technology and flight characteristics.

“Modern aircraft rely on both sophisticated flight control systems and advanced integrated mission systems for their effectiveness. It is important that future generations of test pilots and flight test engineers are exposed to these technologies and are able to test and evaluate them objectively. In recent years, ETPS has been using the Saab Gripen aircraft as an important component of this training with great success and is pleased to be continuing the programme” says Ian Burrett, Director Aerospace Training at QinetiQ.

Following the highly successful 2005-2007 ETPS Gripen training campaigns, for which all syllabus requirements were met, zero flights were lost due to un-serviceability and where all teaching goals in all areas were exceeded, the new 2008 deal will build on this success, further embedding Gripen as an integral part of the ETPS course.


In 2008, each ETPS course will contain two training campaigns (May and August/September) to be undertaken by seven (7) students with three (3) IP’s.
The test pilot students in 2008 will be drawn from the Royal Air Force, Switzerland, Singapore, the Netherlands and Pakistan. Each student will fly Gripen for eleven (11) hours with a complementary course of simulator flying. Flight operations will be undertaken at Saab’s facility in Linköping, while simulator training will be conducted at the Swedish Air Force F7 Wing, Såtenäs.

The ETPS programme is being carried out in close co-operation with Saab and the Swedish Air Force, and will further strengthen the excellent relations that already exist between these highly skilled operators.


For further information, please contact:
Jonas Lindell, Communications Director, Saab Aerosystems
Tel: +46 13 18 7173, Mobile tel: +46 734 187173,
jona...@saabgroup.com

Owe Wagermark, Communications Director, Gripen International
Tel: + 46 13 18 1824, Mobile: +46 734 181824,
Fax +46 13 18 0055,
owe....@gripen.com

Douglas Millard, QinetiQ Media Relations Manager
Tel: +44 1252 39 4611, Mobile tel: +44 7818 017157,
DM....@QinetiQ.com / Press...@QinetiQ.com

www.saabgroup.com


Notes to editors:
Saab serves the global market with world-leading products, services and solutions ranging from military defence to civil security. Saab has operations and employees on all continents and constantly develops, adopts and improves new technology to meet customers´ changing needs.

Gripen is the first of the new generation, multi-role combat aircraft to enter service. Using the latest available technology it is capable of performing an extensive range of air-to-air and air-to-surface operational missions and employing the latest weapons. Gripen is designed to meet the demands of current and future threats, while at the same time meeting strict requirements for flight safety, reliability, training efficiency and low operating costs. Gripen is in service with the Swedish, Czech Republic and Hungarian Air Forces and has also been ordered by South Africa and Thailand. The UK Empire Test Pilots´ School (ETPS) is operating Gripen as its advanced fast jet training platform for test pilots worldwide.

The Empire Test Pilots’ School (ETPS) is established to provide The UK Ministry of Defence (MOD) with Service pilots for employment as test pilots for acceptance testing duties and for aerodynamics and systems research. ETPS is part of the Aircraft Test and Evaluation Centre (ATEC), which is a partnership between UK MOD and QinetiQ. The School also trains Flight Test Engineers (FTE) from the MOD and both pilots and FTEs from Commonwealth and other friendly nations. Graduate test pilots and FTEs may go on to contribute to Service equipment programs as combined test team members, procurement managers, operational requirements staff or in the increasingly crucial ’intelligent customer’ role in liaison Aerospace contractors.

QinetiQ is a leading international defence and security technology business that was formed in July 2001 from the UK Government's Defence Evaluation & Research Agency (DERA). QinetiQ has approximately 13,500 employees, who deliver technology-based services and exploit QinetiQ's strengths in technology research by selling systems solutions, products and licences to government and commercial customers in a spectrum of defence, security and related commercial markets. In February 2006, QinetiQ Group plc was listed on the London Stock Exchange (main market) and joined the FTSE250 in June 2006.

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The export opportunities for Gripen have never been better. Both Switzerland and Norway have announced their requirements for a Gripen tender.

2008 is expected to be a successful year for Gripen. Right now Gripen are involved in several purchasing processes around the world. Switzerland and Norway are the latest to show their interest in Gripen.

“There is a massive interest in Gripen right now, which confirms our strong position on the world market,” says Åke Svensson, CEO for Saab.

Switzerland has now requested a Gripen tender from Saab, who will submit their offer in the middle of this year. Switzerland is expected to make a decision during 2009. Gripen is one out of four candidates to supply fighter aircraft to replace the Swiss F-5 fighter aircraft fleet around 2013.

Norway has been running a purchasing process for a while, and has now commissioned FMV, the Swedish Defence Material Administration, to submit a binding offer for up to 48 aircraft. Also in the competition were two other fighters, the American JSF and the European Eurofighter, however, Eurofighter recently decided to withdraw from the process. Norway will make their decision regarding their new fighter aircraft fleet during spring 2009, with deliveries from 2015.

Saab has received similar requests for Gripen proposals from India and Denmark during 2007.

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Saab is planning for extensive industrial collaboration with Danish industry in connection with an eventual Gripen deal. As a part of this Saab has signed a significant co-operation agreement with Terma, valued to more than 10 BDKK (1,9 BUSD), spread over 10-15 years.

In the next few years Denmark will be renewing its aircraft fleet and the deal could cover as many as 48 fighter aircraft. Saab is offering Gripen Next Generation which is now under development, a fully Nato compatible aircraft that fulfills all Danish requirements. The aircraft can be delivered from 2016 or earlier if Denmark so wishes.

A Gripen deal will generate extensive co-operation and development of new technologies together with Danish industry, both in the area of defence and other industries. The co-operation agreement with Terma, valued to more than 10 BDKK (1,9 BUSD) spread over 10-15 years, covers the areas of aviation, space, defence and civil security. Parts of the agreement are dependent on Denmark selecting Gripen Next Generation.

“We are convinced that our offer is the best alternative for Denmark. Saab offers Danish industry a strong and long term profitable industrial co-operation, exceeding the requirement of 100 percent of the order value of a Gripen deal”, says Saab’s CEO Åke Svensson. “The industrial collaboration carries with it an historic opportunity for broader Scandinavian co-operation.”

“The agreement between Terma and Saab covers very interesting and long term perspectives, both in relation to Denmark’s purchase of new fighter aircraft and to a number of other business areas that can be advantageous to both parties”, says Jens Maaløe, CEO of Terma.


Saab serves the global market with world-leading products, services and solutions ranging from military defence to civil security. Saab has operations and employees on all continents and constantly develops, adopts and improves new technology to meet customers’ changing needs.
Terma is a high-technology group which develops and markets systems and products for civilian and military applications, including command and control systems, radar systems, self-protection systems for aircraft, space technology and aerostructures for aircraft.
Gripen is the first new generation fighter aircraft in operational service. It is designed to meet the demands of current and future threats, while at the same time meeting strict requirements for flexibility, flight safety, reliability, training efficiency and low operating costs. Gripen Next Generation, a new version of Gripen, is one of the candidates for renewing Denmark’s fighter aircraft fleet.


Gripen is in service with the Swedish, Hungarian and Czech Republic Air Forces and has also been ordered by the South African Air Force. The UK Empire Test Pilots´ School (ETPS) is operating Gripen as its advanced fast jet platform for test pilots worldwide.

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Saab will upgrade 31 Swedish Gripen aircraft to the latest standard. The contract with FMV, the Swedish Defence Material Administration, is worth SEK 3.9 billion, also covering a demonstrator programme for Gripen’s future development.

The contract, which was signed today, follows decisions taken earlier this year by the government and the parliament based on a proposal by the Supreme Commander of the Swedish Armed Forces. Of the total value, approximately SEK 3 billion is a new order for Saab, while the rest consists of investments that had previously been agreed to.

“The order is a clear sign that Sweden believes in Gripen’s future,” says Saab’s CEO Åke Svensson. “The upgrade ensures the Gripen production, and the demonstrator programme gives us the opportunity to prove Gripen’s strong development capabilities.”

The contract with FMV covers the upgrade of 31 Gripen from the A/B standard to the latest C/D version. As a result, the Swedish Air Force will have a uniform Gripen fleet with greater functionality, which will improve cost-effectiveness and create new opportunities to participate in international missions. The upgrade begins later this year.

The contract also includes an order for a demonstrator programme for Gripen, consisting of one aircraft and a ground-based avionics rig. The aim of the programme is to show Gripen’s future capabilities, and it includes, among other things, a new, more powerful engine, new radar and the capability of carrying more payload and fuel.

Besides Saab, a number of leading international companies have chosen to invest in the programme, including General Electric, Honeywell, Martin-Baker, APPH and Rockwell Collins. The Norwegian government has also decided to participate in the development. Saab’s commitment to the demonstrator programme alone amounts to approximately SEK 1 billion.

“The demonstrator programme ensures Gripen’s long-term value and takes the system into the future. It is gratifying that such important players share our conviction about Gripen’s capabilities and future potential,” says Åke Svensson.

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Swedish Air Force new generation Gripen fighters will be equipped with the latest version of a helmet mounted display (HMD) system. The order from FMV, Sweden’s Defence Material Administration is worth SEK 345 million ($US 54 million).

The helmet mounted display system, including the BAE Systems Cobra helmet, is a key element of Gripen’s advanced systems fit and has already been ordered by the South African Air Force.

“This order is further evidence of the confidence Sweden has in Gripen,” says Lennart Sindahl, business unit manager at Saab Aerosystems. “HMD further improves the Swedish Gripen fleet’s already expansive operating capacity.”

The HMD displays weapon and basic flight data directly onto the helmet visor, allowing the Gripen pilot to stay ‘heads-up’ at crucial points during a mission and to react faster in an aerial battle, for example. Using the system, the pilot can search out a target, lock on to it and fire his missile.

The HMD system has been tested on the Gripen new generation fighter since 2005 and is available as an option on the export version of Gripen. Saab’s experience with HMD’s dates back nearly 10 years and big efforts have been poured into system development and symbology evolution.

Gripen is the first of the new generation, multi-role combat aircraft to enter service. Using the latest available technology it is capable of performing an extensive range of air-to-air and air-to-surface operational missions and employing the latest weapons. Gripen is designed to meet the demands of current and future threats, while at the same time meeting strict requirements for flight safety, reliability, training efficiency and low operating costs. Gripen is in service with the Swedish, Czech Republic and Hungarian Air Forces and has also been ordered by the South African Air Force. The UK Empire Test Pilots’ School (ETPS) is operating Gripen as its advanced fast jet platform for test pilots worldwide.

Saab serves the global market with world-leading products, services and solutions ranging from military defence to civil security. Saab has operations and employees on all continents and constantly develops, adopts and improves new technology to meet customers´ changing needs.

For further information, please contact:

Owe Wagermark, Communications Director, Gripen International
Phone:+46 13 18 18 24 Mobile:+46 734 18 18 24

Jonas Lindell, Communication Director, Saab Aerosystems
Phone: +46 13 18 71 73. Mobile: +46 734 18 71 73.

www.saabgroup.com www.gripen.com

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The Swedish Saab/Gripen team has welcomed the receipt of the formal MMRCA Request for Proposal (RFP) for the supply of up to 126 new fighter aircraft to the Indian government.

The Saab/Gripen team is delighted to have the opportunity to respond to the Medium Multi-Role Combat Aircraft (MMRCA) RfP and is confident of submitting a fully compliant response to the Indian government. This will be based on the supply of the new generation Gripen, the world's most capable and cost effective combat aircraft in operation today, supported by a long term programme of industrial co-operation and offset.

"We look forward to the competition process and are confident that Gripen will meet, or exceed every operational requirement raised by the Indian Air Force, in all roles – air-to-air fighter BVR/WVR, air-to-surface land and sea, and reconnaissance” says Tony Ogilvy, Gripen International’s Director, India.

“Selecting the Gripen to equip its Air Force will provide India with the world’s most cost effective, new generation, multi-role combat aircraft in full operational service. Operating as a perfect force mix to complement the IAF’s Su-30 fleet, or in fully autonomous units, Gripen offers the highest sortie generation rates, flexibility of basing and combat lethality of any aircraft in the new generation class” he continued.

“Intelligent design of software and hardware will ensure that Gripen maintains this combat supremacy, via planned technology insertion throughout decades of frontline service. The time is over for yesterday’s outmoded concepts in support, upgrading and rigid basing requirements. Gripen is the future of flexible, integrated and networked combat power and it’s available now”

Gripen will, over life, have a substantially lower real Life Cycle Cost than its nearest single-engined competitor, and is able to operate at a fraction of the cost of its twin-engined competitors.

The Saab/Gripen team’s international industrial network, will provide substantial and long-term joint venture growth for the Indian aerospace and defence sector. SAAB AB and its international industrial partners are world leaders in the delivery of economic compensation to support defence sales.

Gripen is the first of the new generation, true multi-role combat aircraft to enter service. Using the latest available technology it is capable of performing an extensive range of air-to-air and air-to-surface operational missions and employing the latest weapons. Gripen is designed to meet the demands of current and future threats, while at the same time meeting strict requirements for flight safety, reliability, training efficiency and low operating costs. Gripen is in service with the Swedish, Hungarian and Czech Republic Air Forces and has also been ordered by the South African Air Force. The UK Empire Test Pilots’ School (ETPS) is operating Gripen as its advanced fast jet platform for test pilots worldwide.

Gripen International is a subsidiary of Saab AB and acts as a prime contracting organization, responsible for marketing, selling and supporting the Gripen fighter worldwide. Gripen International combines the strength of its international industrial partners, which are among the world's most experienced and respected manufacturers of aerospace and defence equipment.


For further information, please contact:
Adrian Stockwell – Communications Director, India, Gripen International
Tel:
+46 13 18 4763
Mobile: '
+46 734 184 763
Fax:
+46 13 18 0055
email:
adria...@gripen.com
Website:
www.gripen.com

www.saabgroup.com

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Thales Norway A/S and Saab of Sweden have signed a contract concerning the development of communications systems for the Gripen fighter. This order for the Norwegian company is the first to be awarded under the provisions of the Letter of Agreement signed by the Norwegian Department of Defence and Gripen International on 26 April this year.

“The communications systems that will be developed by Thales are a central and vital part of Gripen´s systems. This deal means that Saab will get access to the latest Norwegian state-of-the-art technology and in return, Norway and Norwegian companies will be able to obtain first-hand knowledge about the Gripen new generation fighter and its systems. This is good for Norway, Gripen and Sweden” says Hans Rosén, Marketing Director, Norway at Gripen International.

Under the terms of the contract Thales Norway will for the next two years develop Gripen systems capability in the areas of satellite communications and broadband technology. These are functions which are used for transferring data between airborne aircraft and ground-based command and control systems.

“Thales Norway is very positive about this co-operation agreement with Saab, which enables us to build on our extensive capability in defence communication systems. This will also bring new capabilities to a modern fighter aircraft like the Gripen and create a good platform for further industrial co-operation between the companies”, says Glenn Pedersen, managing director at Thales Norway.

This is yet another example of how Saab’s extensive international industrial co-operation programmes, in partnership with some of the world’s leading aerospace companies, is securing the long-term future of the Gripen fighter. This includes the announcement made at the Paris Air Show of the Gripen Demonstrator programme (Gripen Demo), regarding the development of a new Gripen test flying platform - Gripen Demo - and Gripen Avionics Rig, which will keep Gripen at the leading edge well beyond 2040.

The Letter of Agreement signed by the Norwegian authorities and Saab subsidiary Gripen International earlier this year, will enable Norwegian companies to be closely involved in advanced development work in a range of high technology areas. These include composites, communication systems, studies and integration work for Norwegian weapon systems, ammunition, logistics and data systems. The total value of this activity is some NOK 150 million ($US 25 million) for a period of


two years, with the option to further extend the agreement. At this time, Norwegian companies will take part in increased industrial co-operation directly connected to the future development of the Gripen.

About Gripen:
Gripen is designed to meet the demands of current and future threats, while at the same time meeting strict requirements for flexibility, flight safety, reliability, training efficiency and low operating costs. Gripen is in service with the Swedish, Hungarian and Czech Republic Air Forces and has also been ordered by the South African Air Force. The UK Empire Test Pilots´ School (ETPS) is operating Gripen as its advanced fast jet platform for test pilots worldwide.

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Saab is launching its plans for a new Gripen Demonstrator programme in partnership with some of the world’s leading aerospace companies. “This programme will keep Gripen at the leading edge well beyond 2040”, says Johan Lehander, Managing Director Gripen International.

A powerful partnership between Saab and some of the world’s leading aerospace companies has been established to prepare the launch of the Gripen Demonstrator programme. This new programme is aimed at demonstrating a range of future technologies and capabilities to ensure that Gripen remains at the leading edge of fighter aircraft performance and capability well beyond 2040.

The demonstrator programme will include the development of a new Gripen test flying platform - Gripen Demo - and the Gripen Avionics Rig. Gripen Demo will include new features such as a new engine with increased thrust, an AESA radar, increased range, new landing gear, increased weapons and stores capabilities and enhanced avionics structures. The programme is driven by the future needs of current and potential customers, and incorporates state-of-the-art technology that will keep Gripen at the leading edge well into the future.

This programme complements and enhances Gripen’s ongoing technology insertion programme with the highly successful Gripen C/D version now being delivered to customers worldwide.

Investment in the programme will be made by Saab and its international industrial partners, as well as potential future customers. In April 2007, Norway signed a Letter of Agreement regarding the future development of Gripen, valued at around USD 25 million, and the Swedish government is also expected to make a decision soon. These decisions represent a significant national and international government investment and commitment to Gripen’s future.

General Electric together with Volvo, Honeywell, Rockwell Collins, APPH, Martin-Baker and Terma are just some of the world-leading aerospace companies that, together with Saab, will jointly invest in the Gripen Demonstrator programme. Saab is continuing its discussions with other industrial partners and suppliers regarding further investment in the programme.

This combination of international corporate partnership and national and international commitment, through a jointly funded industry and government investment programme, is a very powerful testament to Gripen’s future.

“The Gripen Demonstrator programme, supported by our world leading industrial partners, will strengthen our position in the international market and will keep Gripen at the leading edge throughout its lifetime, well beyond 2040”, says Johan Lehander Managing Director Gripen International.


General Electric:
GE Aviation and Volvo Aero Corporation will be working collaboratively on the new F414G fighter engine for the Gripen Demonstrator programme.

The F414G engine selected by Saab uses a similar architecture to the popular F414-GE-400 engine powering the F/A-18 Super Hornet, with minor changes to the alternator (for added aircraft power) and modified Full Authority Digital Electronic Control software for enhances single-engine operation. The F414 engine is capable of producing more than 22,000 pounds (96 kN) of thrust.

These engines combine advanced technology with proven reliability, maintainability and operability of its successful F404 predecessor while providing 35 % more thrust, with approximately 750,000 flight-hours and 700 engines delivered, the F414 engine continues to exceed U.S. Navy reliability goals.

For further information, please contact:
Greg Haas, Communications Director
+ 1 513-243-4714, + 1 513-325-5409

Fredrik Fryklund, Communications Director, Volvo Aero Corporation
+46 (0)70 319 23 96


Honeywell:
Honeywell is providing environmental control systems, air data computers, life support systems, pressure regulators, shutoff valves and radar altimeters to enhance safety and reliability.

For further information, please contact:
Jim O’Leary, Media Relations Manager
jim.o’lea...@honeywell.com


Rockwell-Collins:
Rockwell Collins is providing an avionics suite of state-of-the-art Flight Management Computers, including switching, data transfer units and video processing capability. Rockwell Collins is also supplying three new intelligent 6” x 8” colour Active Matrix Liquid Crystal Display (AMLCD) Head-Down displays, and


is integrating enhancements to the existing Rockwell Collins Head-Up Display. This cockpit solution builds upon experience built up over many years in the market and will leverage future technology investments.

Tim Burris, Senior Director of Enterprise Communications
+ 1 319 431 6019


Martin-Baker:
Martin-Baker Aircraft Company Limited, a world leader of aircrew escape systems, is to be involved with the new Gripen Demonstrator Programme. Martin-Baker will supply a first-class ejection seat for this aircraft and support Saab in future aircrew safety requirements.

For further information, please contact:
Andrew Martin, Head of Business Development
+ 44 1895836658


APPH:
APPH Ltd, a BBA Aviation company, will be a part of the exiting new development of the Gripen. The design enhancements to the existing and already proven landing gear system will contribute towards the Gripen Demonstrator programmes future success.

For further information, please contact:
Peter Creasy, General Sales Manager
+ 44 1928 579 366


Terma:
Terma is sub-contracted to supply a variety of machined metal parts for the Gripen Demonstrator programme. As the leading defence and aerospace company in Denmark, Terma has unique knowledge, capabilities and experience within design and production of advanced structural parts for military and commercial aircraft.

For further information, please contact:
Kasper Rasmussen, VP Corporate Communications
+45 2022 6091


ENDS



Notes to Editors

About Saab:
Saab serves the global market with world-leading products, services and solutions ranging from military defence to civil security. Saab has operations and employees on all continents and constantly develops, adopts and improves new technology to meet customers’ changing needs.

About Gripen:
Gripen is the first of the new generation, multi-role combat aircraft to enter service. Using the latest available technology it is capable of performing an extensive range of air-to-air and air-to-surface operational missions and employs the latest weapons. Gripen is designed to meet the demands of current and future threats, while at the same time meeting strict requirements for flight safety, reliability, training efficiency and low operating costs.

Gripen is in service with the Swedish, Czech Republic and Hungarian Air Forces and has also been ordered by South Africa. The UK Empire Test Pilots’ School (ETPS) is also operating Gripen as its advanced fast jet platform for test pilots worldwide.

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Yet another important milestone was reached today when Gripen successfully conducted the first Meteor firing in the UK and continued the testing of the six-nation Meteor air dominance missile.

“Gripen is the first and so far only fighter aircraft that has launched Meteor. With today’s firing Gripen once again proves to be a reliable platform for the integration and testing of complex future missile systems for the world’s new generation combat aircraft”, says Lennart Sindahl, Senior Vice President and General Manager of Saab Aerosystems.

At the same time as being an important achievement for Saab and Gripen, the firing also marks a significant milestone in the European multinational Meteor air-to-air missile project. The purpose of today’s High Altitude Control and Dispersion (C&D) firing was to test the performance of the missile’s integrated boost, ramjet sustain motor and control systems during high altitude supersonic launch, extended free flight and extensive manoeuvres.

“Meteor was rail-launched from Gripen flying supersonic at an altitude of 42,650ft. The missile followed a pre-programmed flight profile for several minutes and was then broken up in flight as intended”, says Magnus Ljungdahl, Gripen Test Pilot at Saab.

Today’s firing with Meteor at the UK’s Hebrides missile firing range follows a series of lower altitude Air Launched Demonstrator firings in 2006 and seeker data gathering trials in early 2007. Saab will continue the firing and radar tests with the missile up until 2010 in Vidsel in Sweden, the Hebrides in Scotland and at Aberporth in Wales.

Saab serves the global market with world-leading products, services and solutions ranging from military defence to civil security. Saab has operations and employees on all continents and constantly develops, adopts and improves new technology to meet customers’ changing needs.



For further information please contact:
Kristina Elingstam, Communications Manager, Saab Aerosystems
Tel: +46 (0)13-180 013. Mobile: +46 (0)734-180 013
Peter Larsson, Press Secretary, Saab AB
Tel: +46 (0)8-463 0018. Mobile: +46 (0)734-180 018
www.saabgroup.com

Carol Reed, Group Head of External Communications, MBDA
Tel: +44 (0) 7764 323 453
www.mbda.net

Notes to editors
Meteor is a fast and highly manoeuvrable Beyond Visual Range (BVR) air-to-air missile, for use against air targets. In the future it can replace the American AMRAAM system.

The prime contract for the Meteor programme was signed, during December 2002, by MBDA as prime contractor and the Defence Procurement Agency in the UK n behalf of the Governments of France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Sweden and the UK. MBDA leads the Meteor programme team with key partners including Saab Bofors Dynamics of Sweden and INMIZE of Spain.

In 2001, Swedish authorities signed an international agreement to provide Gripen as a platform for testing the high-tech Beyond Visual Range (BVR) Meteor missile. Saab was involved in the programme as early as 2003, when Saab Bofors Dynamics was awarded a contract to be part of the development and production of the missile. Later that year, Saab Aerosystems received an order from the Swedish Defence Material Administration, FMV, concerning the integration of Meteor on Gripen. In April 2007, Saab was entrusted with the responsibility for carrying out new missile tests with Meteor, which now are being conducted.

The Gripen is the first of the new generation fighter aircraft to enter service and the only combat aircraft currently available for testing the high-tech beyond visual range missiles of the future. Using the latest available technology it is capable of performing an extensive range of air-to-air and air-to-surface operational missions and employing the latest weapons. Gripen, designed to meet the demands of current and future threats, is in service with the Swedish, Czech Republic and Hungarian Air Forces and has also been ordered by the South African Air Force. The UK Empire Test Pilots’ School (ETPS) is also operating Gripen as its advanced fast jet platform for test pilots world wide.

MBDA is a world leading, global missile systems company. MBDA currently has 45 missile system and countermeasure programmes in operational service and has proven its ability as prime contractor to head major multi-national projects. MBDA is jointly owned by BAE SYSTEMS (37.5%), EADS (37.5%) and FINMECCANICA (25%).

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Today Norway and Saab, through Gripen International, have signed a Letter of Agreement regarding the future development of the Gripen fighter. The total value of this agreement is some 150 million Norwegian Kronor (approx. $25 million). This agreement strengthens Gripen’s chances of being selected as the future fighter aircraft for the Norwegian Air Force.

The Norwegian Defence Minister Anne-Grete Strøm-Erichsen and the Swedish Defence Minister Mikael Odenberg, signed a Memorandum of Understanding on co-operation in development work on the future versions of Gripen.

This agreement is an important step for Gripen as a candidate to be selected as Norway’s future fighter aircraft, which is planned to be in-service with the Norwegian Air Force around 2015. Through this agreement, the Norwegian authorities and Norwegian commercial companies will get an extensive understanding and insight into the Gripen system, leading to Norwegian participation in future development work in co-operation with Saab.

There was also a Letter of Agreement (LoA) signed between the Norwegian authorities and the Saab subsidiary Gripen International. This agreement will enable Norwegian companies to work on advanced development work in a range of high technology areas, such as composites, communication systems, studies and integration work for Norwegian weapon systems, ammunition, logistics and data systems. The total value is worth some 150 million NOK for a period of two years, with the option to further extend the agreement. At this time, Norwegian companies will take part in an increased industrial cooperation connected to the development of the future Gripen.

Gripen International Managing Director Johan Lehander is very positive about the forthcoming co-operation:

“These two agreements clearly emphasise the importance the Norwegian government puts in co-operation between Norway and Sweden. From a Saab perspective, it means that we are now industrial partners. In the longer term, it also strengthens the possibilities for Gripen to replace the current F- 16 fighter aircraft in the Norwegian Air Force”, says Lehander.

Gripen is the first of the new generation, true multi-role combat aircraft to enter service. Using the latest available technology it is capable of performing an extensive range of air-to-air and air-to-surface operational missions and employing the latest weapons.

Gripen is designed to meet the demands of current and future threats, while at the same time meeting strict requirements for flight safety, reliability, training efficiency and low operating costs. Gripen is in service with the Swedish, Hungarian and Czech Republic Air Forces and has also been ordered by the South African Air Force. The UK Empire Test Pilots’ School (ETPS) is operating Gripen as its advanced fast jet platform for test pilots worldwide.

Gripen International is a subsidiary of Saab AB and acts as a prime contracting organization, responsible for marketing, selling and supporting the Gripen fighter worldwide. Gripen International combines the strength of its international industrial partners, which are among the world's most experienced and respected manufacturers of aerospace and defence equipment

Saab serves the global market with world-leading products, services and solutions ranging from military defence to civil security. Saab has operations and employees on all continents and constantly develops, adopts and improves new technology to meet customers’ changing needs.


For further information, please contact:
Owe Wagermark, Communications Director Gripen International
Tel +46 13 18 18 24, +46 734 181 824
Peter Liander, Communications Director Norway, Gripen International
Tel +46 13 18 50 15, +46 734 185 015
pete...@gripen.com

www.saabgroup.com
www.gripen.com


Photographs and illustrations:
A selection of the very latest illustrations and photographs of Gripen are available to download from our website www.gripen.com. Go to ‘Gripen Image Base’, New Photos

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Saab has been awarded two new contracts, worth approximately 300 million SEK, for carrying out new missile tests with Meteor.

“Meteor is the leading missile programme in Europe and Gripen has once again been selected for carrying out new tests in the project”, says Thomas Hellström, project manager for Meteor at Saab Aerosystems.

Gripen is the first and so far only fighter aircraft that has launched Meteor. The two new contracts mean that Saab will continue testing and carrying out important activities involving Meteor up until 2010. The contract includes firing and radar tests, taking place in the Hebrides in Scotland, at Aberporth in Wales and at FMV’s test base in Vidsel, Sweden.

Meteor is a European collaborative programme between the UK, France, Italy, Spain, Sweden and Germany. The missile is planned to be the primary air-to-air missile for all the modern European fighter aircraft; Gripen, Eurofighter and Rafale.

Saab became involved in the Meteor programme as early as 2003 when Saab Bofors Dynamics was awarded a contract to develop and produce the missile. The same year, Saab Aerosystems received an order for the integration of Meteor onboard Gripen. Saab thereby plays a key and prominent role within the programme.


For further information please contact:
Heidi Wendt, Communications Manager, Saab Aerosystems
Tel: +46 (0)13-18 00 17. Mobile: +46 (0)734-18 00 17
www.saabgroup.com
www.gripen.com

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Saab AB and Heli-One AS in Norway have today signed a Memorandum of Understanding regarding the international helicopter support market. The possible future Norwegian procurement of the Gripen fighter aircraft has paved the way for a co-operation between Heli-One and Saab to capture future contracts for helicopter support in the Nordic countries.

This MoU is the latest example of an increased collaboration between Swedish and Norwegian industry. The two companies, Saab and Heli-One have already begun to explore mutual business opportunities. One possible approach is to promote the Heli-One Stavanger facilities in Norway as the preferred center for training, maintenance and logistic support of the NH90 helicopters for the Swedish Defense Forces.

“Saab Aerotech and Heli-One have participated in several discussions regarding more intensified collaboration and we are very pleased to now have this agreement in place”, states Lars-Erik Wige, President of the Saab Aerotech.

“Since we started our discussions with the Norwegian authorities regarding the Gripen fighter, we have seen an enormous interest among Swedish and Norwegian companies, both in the military and the civil sector, resulting in huge potential for increased cooperation within Scandinavia.” says Kjell Möller Saab Vice President and Managing Director for Saab Industrial Cooperation.

“Heli-One has a long standing record in providing training, maintenance and logistic support to both commercial and military helicopter operators worldwide. Swedish Defence Forces is already a major customer of Heli-One regarding support of their Super Puma helicopters. In order to capture new business opportunities from our Swedish customer as well as for other helicopter operators, we see this partnering with Saab as a major step”, states Jens Kørte, Managing Director of Heli-One (Norway) AS.


Heli-One is a division within the CHC Helicopter Corporation Group and provides helicopter maintenance and logistic support for CHC’s fleet of helicopters and for civil and military operator’s world wide. Heli-One (Norway) AS is a company in the Heli-One group and is located in Stavanger, Norway.

Saab serves the global market with world-leading products, services and solutions ranging from military defence to civil security. Saab has operations and employees on all continents and constantly develops, adopts and improves new technology to meet customers’ changing needs.

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Gripen International has received an invitation from the Norwegian Ministry of Defence to discuss a model for cooperation related to a possible replacement of the Norwegian F-16 fighter aircraft. The discussions will start early in 2007.

An enhanced standard of the Gripen new generation fighter, dubbed Gripen N, has been offered as an answer to a formal Request for Information earlier in 2006. The offer, backed by the Swedish Government, also includes Industrial co-operation and development on several levels.

“We are looking forward to the opportunity to co-operate more closely with Norway so that in partnership we can pursue the best possible solution”, says Gripen International Campaign Director Norway Hans Rosén as a comment to the invitation. “We have already had very good and interesting discussions with the Government, representatives from political parties, the Armed Forces and Norwegian industry and we are really pleased to have the opportunity to take it one step further. It’s an important step in the aim to put us on equal terms with other competitors.”

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Trainee test pilots at ETPS (Empire Test Pilots’ School), Britain’s world-class flight test training school, which is operated by QinetiQ in partnership with the UK MOD, will gain even greater access to flying Sweden’s new generation Gripen fighter under a new agreement with Saab Aerosystems.

The planned 2006 training campaigns will mirror the structured approach of the highly successful 2005 campaigns, but will see a 30% increase in student numbers, a 20% increase in flights per student, the training of a third ETPS Instructor Pilot (IP) and the inclusion of Flight Test Engineer students within a refined syllabus.

“Saab is delighted that the world’s foremost test pilots’ school has chosen to further expand the training of its students on the Gripen. Saab is a company with a high degree of interest in the art of flight test, so we are very happy to co-operate with such a prestigious flight test school and expose our aircraft to such high-level personnel. We are fully committed to supporting whatever future aspirations the ETPS may have for Gripen”, says Christer Dahlberg, Senior Vice President Marketing at Saab Aerosystems.

Since 1999, ETPS has included Gripen in its test pilot training courses, working in conjunction with Saab. Groups of trainees and their instructor pilots (IP’s) have gone to Sweden to experience Gripen’s advanced cockpit technology and flight characteristics.

“Modern aircraft rely on advanced systems for their effectiveness. For this reason, ETPS students are given access to a wide range of aircraft. Expanding our use of the Gripen allows ETPS to teach systems integration more effectively and on the latest platforms”, says Steve Westwood, Business Manager at ETPS.

Following the highly successful 2005 ETPS Gripen training campaigns, for which all syllabus requirements were met, zero flights were lost due to unserviceability, and where all teaching goals in all areas were exceeded, the new 2006 deal will build on this success, further embedding Gripen as an integral part of the ETPS course.

In 2006, each ETPS course will contain two training campaigns (May and September) to be undertaken by seven (7) students with three (3) Instructor Pilot’s (IP’s). The IP’s will undergo a three-week conversion exercise, in April, to qualify them on Gripen. The test pilot students will be drawn from the French Air Force, the United States Navy, the Royal Australian Air Force and Britain’s Royal Air Force. Each student will fly Gripen for twelve and a half (12.5) hours with a complementary course of simulator flying. Flight operations will be undertaken at Linköping, while simulator training will be conducted at the Swedish Air Force F7 Wing, Såtenäs.

The expanded ETPS project is being carried out in close co-operation with Saab Aerosystems and the Swedish Air Force, and will further strengthen the excellent relations that already exist between these highly skilled operators.

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Here is the complete list of all Saab Press Briefings during the Farnborough Air Show 2006. Saab is delighted to invite you to all of them, especially the Press Conference with Saab CEO Åke Svensson on Tuesday 18 July at 10.00 hrs.

Mr. Åke Svensson main focus will be:
• Saab’s future development
• The Gripen market opportunities
• The expansion through the acquisition of Ericsson Microwave Systems
• Development of Airborne Surveillance Systems
• The expansion in South Africa

During the press Conference, Mr. Svensson will be joined by Mr. Johan Lehander the Managing Director for Gripen International.

The following Saab press briefings will take place during the week:

Monday 17 July
09.30 Press breakfast
Pavillion OE10 and Chalet and C24-26 in C-row

10.00 Press briefing, “Saab Aircraft Leasing Update”
President of Saab Aircraft Leasing, Mr. Michael Magnusson will provide a market update for the Saab 340 and Saab 2000 and also present information regarding turboprop /regional jet trends in general.
Chalet, C24-26 in C-row

10.00 Press briefing, “Gripen Meteor ALD Firings”
Project Manager Meteor at Saab Aerosystems, Thomas Hellström, Program Ulf Hellberg and Business and Performance Executive for Meteor at MBDA, Richard Jones, will give a press briefing about the successful Gripen Meteor ALD firings. Pavillion OE10

Tuesday 18 July
09.30 Press breakfast
Chalet C24-26 in C-row

10.00 Press conference, Saab CEO Åke Svensson
A general update by CEO Mr. Åke Svensson together with Managing Director for Gripen International Mr. Johan Lehander with information on the Gripen program.
Chalet, C24-26 in C-row


Wednesday 19 July
09.30 Press breakfast
Pavillion OE10

10.00 Press briefing, “A year with Gripen in NATO service”
Petr Mikulenka, Commander for the Gripen operations within the Czech Air Force, will talk about the experience from the first year with Gripen NATO QRA operations. Pavillion OE10

15.30 Press briefing, “Protection of civil and special mission aircraft market
and Saab Electronic Warfare Concept”
Senior Marketing and Sales Executive at Saab Avitronics, Mr. Göran
Karlström, will present Saab Electronic Warfare Concept for civil and special
mission applications. Chalet, C24-26 in C-row

Thursday 20 July
09.30 Press breakfast
Pavillion OE10

10.00 Press briefing, “Saab UAV Programs Update“
Program Director UAV at Saab Aerosystems, Mikael Franzén, will give an update on Saab’s UAV road map and ongoing Saab UAV-programs.
Pavillion OE10

Most Welcome!
Saab is one of the world’s leading high-technology companies, with its main operations focusing on defense, aviation and space. The group covers a broad spectrum of competence and capabilities in systems integration.

Please notify your participation to either:

Heidi Wendt, Saab Aerosystems + 46 734-18 00 17
heid...@saab.se

Peter Larsson, Saab Press Secretary +46 734-18 00 18
pete...@saab.se

Anders Annerfalk, Gripen International + 46 734-18 48 15
ander...@gripen.se

John Belanger, Saab Aircraft, +46 734-18 31 01
john...@saabgroup.com

Anna Bergenlid, Saab Avitronics, +46 734 37 53 06
Anna...@saabavitronics.se

Susanne Dalskog, Saab Aerostructures, +46 734-18 00 14
Susan...@saab.se

www.saabgroup.com

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Saab, as a partner in the Swedish Industry Group JAS, has received a 1 billion SEK order from FMV (the Swedish Defence Material Administration) covering continued development of the Gripen System.

The current order is a regular part of the Gripen program’s overall continuous development and upgrade process. The order covers various software upgrades as well as other development activities supporting the long term development of the Gripen system.

Work will be performed at Saab Aerosystems and Saab Aerotech in Linköping, Sweden as well as at Saab Avitronics in Järfälla and Kista, Sweden. The order will not require an increase in existing manpower levels.

The Industry Group JAS (IG JAS) is the joint venture partnership that develops the Gripen System for the Swedish Armed Forces. Partners included in IG JAS are Saab Volvo Aero Corporation and Ericsson Microwave Systems. Saab has recently announced the intent to acquire Ericsson Microwave Systems in a deal expected to close in September 2006.

Saab is one of the world’s leading high-technology companies, with its main operations focusing on defence, aviation and space. The group covers a broad spectrum of competence and capabilities in systems integration.


For additional information, please contact:
Heidi Wendt, Communications Director Saab Aerosystems
+46 734 18 00 17
Anna Bergenlid, Communications Director Saab Avitronics
+46 734 37 53 06
John Belanger, V.P., PR and Comms, Saab Aerotech
+46 734 18 31 01
www.saabgroup.com

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The order involves the integration of the air-to-air missile IRIS-T on Gripen. The IRIS-T has previously been ordered by the Swedish Defence Material Administration for the purpose of enhancing Gripen’s close combat performance.

“The integration of IRIS-T enhances Gripen’s close combat performance, which is an important component for Gripen during future international operations,” says Ulf Nilsson, head of Gripen Sweden at Saab Aerosystems.

The order involves the integration of the air-to-air missile on Gripen, where Saab will be carrying out flight trials to verify coordination between the guided missile and the Gripen fighter. Saab is planning to fire the first shot with IRIS-T in 2007, but the integration process will commence immediately after the year-end and continue to 2009.

The IRIS-T is an air-to-air missile used during aerial combat with the new generation of fighter aircraft and will in future replace the American Sidewinder. The development of the air-to-air missile IRIS-T is being conducted as an international industrial project with the participation of Germany, Greece, Italy, Sweden, Norway and Spain.

With the future integration of HMD (Helmet Mounted Display), IRIS-T will further enhance close combat performance for the Gripen system.


Saab is one of the world’s leading high-technology companies with its main operations focusing on defense, aviation and space. The Group covers a broad spectrum of competence and capability in systems integration.

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The first South African dual seat Gripen took to the skies on its maiden flight in Sweden on Friday 11 November 2005.

Painted in South African Air Force grey livery, the aircraft took off at 13.40 from Saab’s Flight Test Centre in Linköping, Sweden. The flight lasted 1 hr 10 min.

South African test pilot Charl Coetzee and Saab test pilot Magnus Olsson were at the controls for the first flight of South Africa’s future multi-/swing-role fighter.

During the flight, the test team were able to validate the basic flight control systems, engine, hydraulics and electrics.

“The flight went better than expected and we were able to demonstrate some additional functionalities,” explained Charl Coetzee.

“The maiden flight of South Africa’s first Gripen is an important milestone which has been achieved earlier than scheduled. This is indicative of the maturity of the Gripen design and the dedicated approach taken by joint Swedish-South African teams to keep the program on track for customer deliveries commencing in March 2008,” remarked Jerker Ahlqvist, Program Director, South Africa.

This aircraft will now undergo a thorough inspection and systems computer interrogation before being prepared for subsequent flight tests commencing later this month. It will be transferred to South Africa in August 2006, where it will participate in a flight development program focused on the integration of South Africa’s customized avionics and weapons systems.

Photos of the flight can be downloaded from our website www.gripen.com. Go to ‘Gripen Images/Gripen Image Base/Basket’.

Background notes to editors:

• In 1999, South Africa ordered 28 Gripen fighters (19 single-seaters and 9 two-seaters) and 24 BAE Systems’ Hawk advanced jet trainers. The Gripen aircraft, which will be delivered from 2008 onwards, will be based at AFB Makhado in South Africa’s northern Limpopo Province. The combined contract for the 28 Gripen and 24 Hawk aircraft is valued at US$2.2-billion

• An 11-strong South African Department of Defence Gripen Joint Project Team is based at Saab in Sweden overseeing the aircraft’s development for South Africa. Several SA Air Force and industry pilots have undergone training at Saab’s Test Flight Department.

• The Gripen aircraft program is on track. South Africa’s Parliament has acknowledged Saab and BAE Systems’ joint performance in achieving all of their aircraft program and industrial participation milestones to date.

• The next significant aircraft development milestone will be the transfer of the first South African Gripen to the Test and Flight Development Centre, in South Africa, in the third Quarter of 2006.

• Saab and its partner, BAE Systems, are delivering a US$8,7 billion Industrial Participation package to South Africa, including investments in the defense, aerospace and numerous civil industries. This obligation will be fulfilled by April 2011.

Gripen is the first of the new generation, multi-role combat aircraft to enter service. Using the latest available technology it is capable of performing an extensive range of air-to-air and air-to-surface operational missions and employing the latest weapons. Gripen is designed to meet the demands of current and future threats, while at the same time meeting strict requirements for flight safety, reliability, training efficiency and low operating costs. Gripen is in service with the Swedish and Czech Republic Air Forces and has also been ordered by the South African and Hungarian Air Forces. The UK Empire Test Pilots’ School (ETPS) is operating Gripen as its advanced fast jet training platform for test pilots worldwide.

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Saab has received an order from FMV to develop support systems for the JAS 39 Gripen. The order is worth MSEK 150 and is a supplement to the existing contract for Gripen support systems.

“This supplementary procurement is a natural part of the support system development currently under way in connection with delivery and military introduction of the C and D versions of the JAS 39 Gripen. The support system helps ensure high operational availability of the Gripen system, and we’re pleased to be a part of this process,” says Torsten Öhman, Director After Sales at Saab Aerosystems.

The order encompasses Line Replaceable Units (LRUs) for support and maintenance of the Gripen system. LRUs are systems and equipment onboard the aircraft that can be replaced quickly and simply when required.

The order is for additional procurement of systems and equipment, as well as new procurement of LRUs for the latest versions of the Gripen, the C and D versions. The LRUs will be used operationally in Gripen fighters in Sweden, the Czech Republic and Hungary.

The contract involves Saab Aerosystems and Saab Avitronics.

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Trainee test pilots at Britain’s renowned Empire Test Pilots’ School will soon be spending even more time flying the world’s first operational fourth-generation fighter.

Trainee test pilots at ETPS (Empire Test Pilots’ School), Britain’s world-class test pilot training school, will gain greater access to flying the world’s first operational fourth-generation fighter under a new agreement with Saab, brokered by Gripen International. The deal agreed this month, sees an extension of flying hours for ETPS students, as well as greater flying autonomy.

Since 1999 Saab has been co-operating with ETPS, to include Gripen in the School’s test pilot training courses. Select groups of trainees and their instructor pilots (IPs) have come to Sweden to experience Gripen’s advanced cockpit technology and flight characteristics. The students gain invaluable insight into the design of a fourth-generation platform and learn how to apply their test pilot techniques in an agile fly-by-wire combat aircraft.

This year will see a significant step forward in Gripen’s relationship with the ETPS as the aircraft is fully integrated into the School’s training syllabus. For the first time, Gripen will be flown exclusively by ETPS personnel – with two-seat aircraft occupied by an ETPS IP and student on every flight. Up to now a Saab test pilot has always been on board, but for 2005 Gripen will be released entirely to the ETPS.

Two training courses will be undertaken, each involving five students and two IPs. The instructors will undergo a three-week conversion exercise to qualify them on Gripen. The test pilot trainees will be drawn from Britain’s Royal Air Force and the Royal Australian Air Force. Each student will fly Gripen for 11 hours over a 10 flight program, with a complementary course of simulator flying. Flight operations will be undertaken at Linköping, while simulator training will be conducted at F7 Wing, Såtenäs.

Saab Aerosystems’ Director, After Sales Torsten Öhman, said “Saab is delighted that the world’s foremost test pilot’s school has chosen to train its students on the Gripen.
Saab is a company with a high degree of interest in the art of flight test, so we are very happy to co-operate with such a prestigious flight test school and expose our aircraft to such high-level personnel. We are fully committed to supporting whatever future aspirations the ETPS may have for Gripen.”

The expanded ETPS project is being carried out in close co-operation with Saab Aerosystems and the Swedish Air Force, and will further strengthen the excellent relations that already exist between these highly skilled operators.

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During the past month, the Gripen has been undertaking an air-to-air refueling campaign with a Boeing 707 tanker at Saab’s facility in Linköping, Sweden. The campaign had the objective of verifying Gripen’s air-to-air refueling capabilities with a NATO standard compatible tanker. It included a total of 19 sorties with the latest standard of Gripen, the Gripen C single-seat and Gripen D dual-seat, and a South African Air Force Boeing 707 tanker; the results were very successful.

“The verification flights have been conducted according to plan and all the objectives have been fulfilled. The campaign has been very successful and the cooperation with the South African Air Force has been excellent. During the campaign the full available envelope for Gripen air-to-air refueling has been examined, including refueling at various speeds, altitudes and with various external loads.” says Mats Thorbiörnson, Deputy Chief test pilot at Saab Aerosystems.

The aim of the campaign has been to technically verify Gripen’s refueling capability, which is part of the aircraft’s export adaptation. The Gripen C and D are fully NATO-interoperable and meet the demands for both national and international operations. The air-to-air refueling capability increases Gripen’s operational range and endurance, a major advantage in international operations.

The sorties were carried out in close cooperation with a South African Air Force Boeing 707 tanker and its aircrew and ground crew of twenty, who arrived in Linköping on 19 March. The South African Air Force has extensive experience of air-to-air refueling and has previously verified a number of different aircraft from several air forces during similar trials.

“We are delighted to have been involved in these successful Gripen air-to-air re-fueling trials. It has been a very good experience for my team to work in close partnership with the Saab Gripen team and to have had the opportunity to live and work in Sweden over the past month”, said the team leader of the SAAF tanker crew, Colonel Giel van den Berg.

Saab is one of the world’s leading high-technology companies, with its main operations focusing on defense, aviation and space. The group covers a broad spectrum of competence and capabilities in systems integration.

For further information please contact:
Heidi Wendt, Communications Director at Saab Aerosystems
Tel. +46 (0)13 18 00 17, +46 (0 )734 18 00 17

www.saab.se
www.gripen.com

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The Reconnaissance Pod System from SaabTech for the Swedish Gripen fighter made its first flight March 24 at Saab in Linköping, Sweden.

“Excellent handling qualities, the digital flight control system took care of everything it just feels like flying a clean aircraft, says Richard Ljungberg, Saab test pilot and former Swedish Air Force recce pilot.
“We even tested camera functions in the pod together with maneuverability of the aircraft during the first flight.”

The maiden flight was carried out a couple of months after the first delivery to FMV, the Swedish Defence Material Administration. FMV has designed the reconnaissance system for the Gripen system out of the demands from the Swedish Armed Forces.

Flight tests and evaluation will be ongoing at Saab in Linköping for approximately a year and introduction into Swedish service will be in 2006.

The Swedish Air Force JAS 39 Gripen fighters will by then be fitted with a modern reconnaissance pod system enabling them to replace AJSF 37 Viggen reconnaissance aircraft assigned to the service's rapid reaction (SWAFRAP) force.

The system gives the JAS 39C/D an entirely new sensor surveillance capability, which will add to the visual, radar and ESM reconnaissance.

Prime contractor for this program – started in December 2001 – is SaabTech, with Terma A/S and AerotechTelub as partners for the Pod System and Integrated Logistic Support respectively. Major subcontractors are Recon Optical and L3 Communication for the CA270 sensor and digital mass memory respectively.

Reconnaissance systems are important for international operations, interoperability and continuous growth into the net centric warfare environment. Recent combat experience has illustrated the value of using reconnaissance data in network centric environments.



Facts about the Modular Reconnaissance Pod System from SaabTech:

The Modular Reconnaissance Pod System (MRPS) from SaabTech can be carried on various aircraft platforms and provides customers with a maximum of flexibility in tailoring the sensor suite to operational requirements for airborne tactical reconnaissance.

It is easily integrated into the aircraft avionics by a MIL-STD-1553B data bus and a video interface to the displays in the cockpit. The Pod is designed for autonomous operation with an internally integrated Environmental Control System. A Reconnaissance Management System (RMS), CA270 medium altitude sensor, a digital mass memory and a Control Display Unit (CDU) are included in the basic pod configuration.

The reconnaissance payload can include different types of sensors and is housed in three main compartments. The rotating window mid-section can accommodate advanced sensors suitable for missions at any altitude. The forward and aft compartments can house a Common Data Link (CDL) and additional sensors as applicable.

The MRPS is interoperable with NATO STANAG requirements for timely distribution of intelligence for the reconnaissance loop.

Read more about the Modular Reconnaissance Pod System from SaabTech and download pictures at www.saabtech.se

Gripen is the most cost-effective and capable supersonic, multi-role/swing-role fighter aircraft in operational service today. In service with the Swedish Air Force since 1997, it will also equip the South African, Hungarian and Czech Air Forces. Read more about Gripen and download pictures at www.gripen.com

Saab is one of the world’s leading high-technology companies, with its main operations focusing on defense, aviation and space. The group covers a broad spectrum of competence and capabilities in systems integration.


For further information please contact:
Micael Johansson, Vice President, SaabTech, phone +46 73 437 37 11.
Anna Bergenlid, Communications Director, SaabTech, phone +46 73 437 53 06.

www.saab.se

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Monday October 18 saw the take-off of the first Gripen fighter ordered for export. The aircraft, which will be delivered to the Czech Republic, was marked with Czech colors.

"This maiden flight marks an important milestone for Gripen on the export market. Today's flight demonstrates that Saab is world leading when it comes to developing modern fighters and that we will stay in that position for a long time", says Johan Lehander, head of Gripen operations at Saab Aerosystems.

The Czech Air Force will be the first NATO country to operate Gripen, one of the world's most modern, fourth generation fighter aircraft. The fighters will be delivered by FMV to the Czech Republic from April 2005.

Gripen was up for 1 hour and 25 minutes and was flown by Mats Thorbiörnson, one of Saab's test pilots. Following today's maiden flight there will be a period of further air and ground tests to verify that the systems are working in line with the Czech specifications.
The fighter that made the historical flight is the first of 14 aircraft that the Swedish state (FMV) is leasing to the Czech armed forces.

The contract also includes training. Since August, the first Czech pilots have been re-training for the Gripen systems at the F7 Swedish Air Force base in Såtenäs, western central Sweden. Approximately 40 engineers are also being trained in Gripen systems at the Armed Forces Halmstad Schools (FMHS) on the south-west coast

Saab is one of the world's leading high-technology companies, with its main operations focusing on defence, aviation and space. The group covers a broad spectrum of competence and capabilities in systems integration.

Gripen is the most cost-effective and capable supersonic, multi-role/swing-role fighter aircraft in operational service today. In service with the Swedish Air Force since 1997, it will also equip the South African, Hungarian and Czech Air Forces. Read more about Gripen and Gripen International at www.gripen.com

For further information please contact:
Heidi Wendt, Communications Director, Saab Aerosystems
Tel: +46 (0)13-18 00 17. Cell: +46 (0)734-18 00 17

For further information concerning the Gripen-contract for the Czech Republic, please contact:
Ulf Lindström, Press Officer Gripen program, FMV
Tel +46 (0)8-782 63 96, Cell +46 (0)70- 982 63 96

www.saab.se
www.saabaerosystems.com


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