Facts summary and sources
Saab J 35 Draken: speed field: Mach 2.0 (database value; evidence basis not recorded). First flight: 1955.
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✈️ Full Specifications
| Country | ✈️ Sweden |
| First flight | 1955 |
| Length | 15.35 m (50.4 ft) |
| Max Speed (Mach) | 2 |
| Speed evidence basis | Published specification |
| Max Speed | 2,150 km/h |
Saab J 35 Draken
The Saab 35 Draken (Dragon) was a Swedish fighter aircraft with a revolutionary double-delta wing design. First flying in 1955, it was the first fully supersonic aircraft deployed in Western Europe.
🐉 Design Innovation
The Draken distinctive double-delta planform was years ahead of its time. The inner section had a sharp 80° sweep for high-speed performance, while the outer section had a gentler sweep for better low-speed handling. This design influenced many later aircraft.
It was also one of the first fighters capable of performing the Cobra maneuver — decades before the Su-27 made it famous.
📋 Specifications
- Max Speed: Mach 2.0 (2,150 km/h)
- Range: 3,250 km (with external tanks)
- Service Ceiling: 20,000 m (65,000 ft)
- Engine: 1× Volvo RM6C turbojet with afterburner
- First Flight: 1955
- Built: 651
- Country: Sweden
⚔️ Armament
1-2× 30mm ADEN cannons, Rb 24 (AIM-9) Sidewinder missiles, rockets, bombs.
🎬 Video
Frequently Asked Questions
How fast is the Saab Draken?
The Draken had a top speed of Mach 2.0 (1,320 mph). It was the first Western European Mach 2 fighter.
What is the Draken’s distinctive wing shape?
A “double delta” wing — 80° inner sweep joined to 57° outer sweep — giving excellent performance at both supersonic and low speeds.
How many Drakens were built?
651 Drakens were built for Sweden, Denmark, Finland, and Austria.
Is the Draken still in service?
No. Sweden retired it in 1999. It served for nearly 40 years.