Brazilian air force plans a new squadron of Saab JAS 39 Gripen fighters.

The Brazilian Air Force is considering a new squadron of Saab JAS 39 Gripen fighters. According to an order issued on March 5, 2024, by the Brazilian Air Force General Staff (Emaer), a working group has been established to develop guidelines for activating the 1st/4th GAV Pacau Squadron at Anápolis Air Base (BAAN), one of the largest air bases in South America. The order discusses the reactivation of the Pacau Squadron in Anápolis, a unit many thought would remain disbanded in favor of the 1st/16th GAV - Adelphi Squadron, which ceased operations in 2016 when it was flying Embraer A-1 AMX tactical fighters.
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Brazilian and Swedish Air Forces' Gripen combat jets were in Sweden in July 2023 (Picture source: Saab )

Currently, the SAAB Gripen fighter is only operated by the 1st Air Defense Group of the Anápolis Air Base (BAAN). The 1st GDA is traditionally an air defense unit, specialized in interception, air superiority, and air dominance. However, it is envisaged that the Pacau Squadron might be deployed for air-to-ground missions, while the 1st GDA would maintain its traditional air-to-air combat profile.

In December 2023, the 1st Air Defense Group at Anápolis Air Base, which operates Gripen fighters, had seven aircraft, including the test aircraft 4100 performing trials from the Gripen flight test center at Embraer in Gavião Peixoto (SP) since 2020. Saab had agreed to a contract for a fleet of 36 aircraft with the South American country in 2013. As part of this transfer to the Brazilian Air Force, training was organized in partnership with Saab and the Swedish Air Force's Phoenix Squadron. Additionally, Swedish support groups are also present at Anápolis Base to assist the FAB in commissioning the Gripen E.

The Saab JAS 39 Gripen is a versatile, fourth-generation multi-role fighter aircraft developed by the Swedish aerospace company Saab. Featuring a delta wing and canard configuration, it offers exceptional agility and performance. The Gripen entered service with the Swedish Air Force in 1997 and has been adopted by several other countries. Known for its cost-effectiveness, ease of maintenance, and advanced avionics and systems, the Gripen can execute a variety of missions, including air defense, reconnaissance, and ground attack. Continuously updated since its production began in the late 1980s, the Gripen represents a contemporary solution for modern air forces looking for operational flexibility.

This initiative to strengthen Anápolis with the activation of a new squadron of F-39 Gripen highlights the strategic importance of this air base for the defense of Brazilian territory. It also reflects the versatility and advanced capabilities of the Gripen fighter, capable of adapting to various types of missions and thus enhancing the operational efficiency of the Brazilian Air Force.

Defense News March 2024