✈️ Aircraft Specifications
| Designation | Gripen E |
| Manufacturer | Saab |
| Country of Origin | Sweden |
| First Flight | 1988 |
| Length | 14.1 m (46.3 ft) |
| Max Speed (Mach) | 2.0 |
| Max Speed (km/h) | 2,204 km/h |
| Service Ceiling | 15,240 m (50,002 ft) |
| Range | 3,200 km (1,987 mi) |
| Engine | 1× Volvo RM12 (GE F404) turbofan |
| Crew | 1 |
| Status | Active |
Overview
The Gripen is Sweden’s lightweight, cost-effective multirole fighter designed to operate from short runways—including roads—in a Nordic winter war scenario. It offers 4.5-generation capability at a fraction of the cost of the F-35 or Typhoon.
Design & Development
Sweden designed the Gripen to be maintained by conscript mechanics and to take off from 800m road strips with 6 minutes turnaround between sorties. The canard-delta configuration with digital fly-by-wire provides excellent agility. The latest Gripen E features an AESA radar, increased fuel capacity, and two additional hardpoints.
Operational History
Serving with Sweden, Czech Republic, Hungary, South Africa, Thailand, and Brazil, the Gripen is gaining export momentum. It has been deployed for NATO air policing missions in the Baltic states. Sweden has offered Gripens to Ukraine, making it potentially the first Western fighter in that conflict.
Armament
- 1× BK-27 27mm Mauser cannon
- Meteor BVRAAM
- AIM-120 AMRAAM
- IRIS-T / AIM-9 Sidewinder
- RBS-15F anti-ship missile
- GBU-12/49 laser-guided bombs
- Taurus KEPD 350 cruise missile
Video
Frequently Asked Questions
How fast is the Gripen?
The Gripen has a top speed of Mach 2.0 (1,320 mph / 2,124 km/h).
What makes the Gripen unique?
Designed for road-base operations, rapid turnaround by conscript crews (under 10 minutes), and has the lowest operating cost of any Western fighter.
How many Gripens have been built?
Over 270 Gripens built for Sweden, Czech Republic, Hungary, South Africa, Thailand, and Brazil.
Is the Gripen still in production?
Yes. The latest Gripen E variant features AESA radar and enhanced capabilities.