Facts summary and sources
Saab JAS 39 Gripen: speed field: Mach 2.0 (Published specification). First flight: 1988.
This is a secondary compilation. A source-check date applies only to the listed claim, not to the whole page or its translation. A page update is not a source check.
Sources and check records
- Saab Gripen C fact sheet, March 2016 — Gripen C maximum speed at high altitude is published as Mach 2. [Published specification; variant and altitude specified] · Source checked for this claim: 2026-09-28
- Existing reference link · Source-check date not recorded
- Wikipedia reference · Source-check date not recorded
✈️ Full Specifications
| Designation | Gripen C/D and E/F family |
| Manufacturer | Saab |
| Country | 🇸🇪 Sweden |
| First flight | 1988 |
| Crew | 1 |
| Length | 14.1 m (46.3 ft) |
| Max Speed (Mach) | 2 |
| Speed evidence basis | Published specification |
| Service Ceiling | 15,240 m (50,002 ft) |
| Range | 3,200 km (1,987 mi) |
| Engine | 1× Volvo RM12 (GE F404) turbofan |
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. Operating-cost comparisons depend on accounting, fleet size and mission; this page does not claim a universal lowest cost.
Design & Development
Saab describes dispersed operations and rapid servicing. Its Gripen C fact sheet gives a 10-minute air-to-air combat turnaround under stated operating assumptions; it is not a guarantee for every mission. 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. Current transfer proposals and deliveries require dated announcements and are not inferred from older offers.
Armament
Capabilities depend on aircraft version, operator and integration status; this family overview is not a certified loadout list for every Gripen.
- 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
Video
Frequently Asked Questions
How fast is the Gripen?
Saab’s Gripen C fact sheet publishes Mach 2 at high altitude. This is a C-series specification, not a flight record or a condition-independent km/h conversion. Gripen E has a different engine and airframe; do not merge C and E specifications into one aircraft.
What makes the Gripen unique?
Its design emphasises dispersed operations and quick servicing. Saab quotes a 10-minute air-to-air turnaround for Gripen C; the work and time depend on configuration and support conditions. No universal lowest-cost ranking is established here.
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.