Saab prepares Gripen jet successor with stealth fighters and AI-powered drones.

As reported by SVT Nyheter on December 12, 2024, Saab is advancing preparations for Sweden's next-generation fighter jet as the JAS 39 Gripen nears the end of its operational service life, with the deployment of a replacement envisioned around 2050. Saab’s proposal focuses on a mix of manned and unmanned platforms, including a low-cost subsonic uncrewed platform under one ton, a supersonic uncrewed platform over five tons, a subsonic uncrewed platform under five tons, and a new manned fighter. These will incorporate technologies such as artificial intelligence, networked operations, and stealth capabilities, which are considered necessary for future air combat requirements.
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Saab's future fighter will retain key elements from the Gripen, including its engine, vehicle systems, and avionics, while introducing a stealthier airframe, a new digital backbone, advanced communication systems, and AI integrations. (Picture source: Saab via SVT Nyheter)

According to available visuals, Saab's future fighter will retain key elements from the Gripen, including its engine, vehicle systems, and avionics, while introducing a stealthier airframe, a new digital backbone, advanced communication systems, and AI integrations. The future design will omit the canards featured on the current Gripen. A key part of Saab’s approach includes “loyal wingman” drones—uncrewed aerial systems designed to operate alongside manned fighters. These drones could serve as decoys to absorb enemy fire or conduct surveillance and precision strikes in high-risk environments. Peter Nilsson, head of Saab’s Advanced Programs business unit, stated that certain platforms might be designed for expendability to fulfill these roles. Saab is also incorporating stealth technologies, including radar-absorbing materials and improved aerodynamic designs, to enhance low observability. Stealth has become a critical feature in air warfare, enabling aircraft to reduce radar detection.

The proposals are part of Saab’s Future Combat Aircraft Concept (KFS) study, launched in mid-2023. The program prioritizes low observability, autonomy, and electronic warfare capabilities. Technology validation efforts have included wind tunnel testing and computer simulations. Saab presented its supersonic stealth drone concept at the 33rd International Congress of Aeronautical Sciences in September 2022, featuring internal weapons bays and low-drag aerodynamic design. The KFS program, running until 2030, focuses on demonstrators for both manned and unmanned systems.

The program gained further momentum in March 2024 when Försvarets materielverk (FMV), Sweden’s Defence Materiel Administration, awarded Saab a contract for concept studies. These studies cover manned and unmanned platforms, technology demonstrators, and system-level developments. Saab is collaborating with the Swedish Armed Forces, the Total Defense Research Institute, and GKN Aerospace, with studies expected to conclude by the end of 2025. The work coincides with ongoing upgrades to the Gripen C/D fleet and the introduction of the Gripen E, which will enter service in Sweden and Brazil in 2025. Saab has stated that the Gripen E platform may serve as a testbed for emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence.

Saab is testing AI integration under “Project Beyond,” a collaboration with AI software company Helsing. The project includes embedding AI agents in beyond-visual-range combat scenarios directly into operational systems. According to Saab’s head of Gripen, Johan Segertoft, developments in AI and uncrewed systems could also improve manned fighter performance. Saab is exploring additional technologies, such as radar modules integrated within composite structures to enhance radar performance, and it is preparing to test its 3D-printed UAV “Ruby” under the Rainforest accelerator program. Ruby, powered by a GE Aerospace J85 engine from a Saab 105 trainer, will be tested at the Vidsel range in northern Sweden for defense and civilian applications, including wildfire monitoring.

Saab’s proposals aim to integrate manned and unmanned systems, stealth, and AI technologies, with tested platforms like the Gripen E supporting the development process. (Picture source: NATO Air Command)

Geopolitical developments, including Russia’s annexation of Crimea in 2014 and its invasion of Ukraine in 2022, have increased Sweden’s focus on air defense modernization. Sweden’s 2025–2030 defense strategy addresses these security concerns while aligning with NATO requirements. The strategy increases defense spending to 2.6% of GDP by 2028, allocating 170 billion SEK (€14.9 billion) for military defense and 35.7 billion SEK (€3.1 billion) for civil defense. Sweden has contributed €4.2 billion in military aid to Ukraine, highlighting the importance of stockpiling resources and enhancing logistical readiness for prolonged conflicts. Lessons from Ukraine’s war emphasize the need for technological adaptability, layered air defense, and long-range strike capabilities.

Sweden has maintained an independent defense approach, while other Nordic countries (Finland, Norway, and Denmark) have procured US-made F-35 fighters. Sweden’s air defense strategy retains six Swedish Air Force squadrons equipped with JAS 39 Gripen aircraft, including both JAS 39E and older JAS 39C/D variants, to meet NATO Integrated Air and Missile Defense (IAMD) requirements. Infrastructure upgrades are planned to improve airbase dispersal and mobilization, and pilot training programs will expand with international opportunities. Between 2025 and 2030, the fighter divisions will integrate long-range strike capabilities and unmanned aerial systems for reconnaissance and security.

In December 2022, Sweden exited the UK-led Tempest program, now part of the Global Combat Air Programme (GCAP), due to misalignment with its priorities and timeline. Meanwhile, other European nations, including France, Germany, and Spain, are advancing the FCAS sixth-generation fighter program. Analysts such as Lars Peder Haga from the Norwegian Defense Academy point to the financial and technological challenges of independent fighter development. However, Sweden has previously developed advanced aircraft, such as the Viggen and Gripen.

Peter Hultqvist, defense spokesperson for the Social Democrats, emphasized the importance of retaining Sweden’s domestic fighter development capability due to its industrial and strategic value. Addressing concerns about development costs, Peter Nilsson referenced the successful JAS 39 Gripen program from the 1980s, which faced similar financial skepticism. Saab’s approach involves sourcing approximately 85% of components internationally while retaining control over design and system integration as a cost-effective solution.

The decision on Sweden’s future combat aircraft, expected by 2030, will determine the country’s airpower capabilities and defense industrial strategy. Saab’s proposals aim to integrate manned and unmanned systems, stealth, and AI technologies, with tested platforms like the Gripen E supporting the development process. Sweden’s options include domestic development, international collaboration, or procuring foreign-built systems, with implications for Saab’s workforce, which includes 6,000 engineers in Linköping. The outcome will influence Sweden’s long-term defense readiness and industrial landscape.