Aircraft
New-generation Prototype Leads Gripen Renaissance
Various nations are seen as prospects for the E/F Gripen model while Saab is still selling the C/D too.
The Gripen E prototype flies over Östergötland during its 40-minute maiden flight. Among the visible changes that distinguish the new-generation fighter from the current Gripen C production model is the additional cooling air intake at the base of the fin. Other distinctive changes are the bulged wingroots to accommodate the relocated main landing gear, single-wheel nose unit, and enlarged wingtip missile-launch fairings that house elements of the directed electronic warfare system.
The Gripen E prototype flies over Östergötland during its 40-minute maiden flight. Among the visible changes that distinguish the new-generation fighter from the current Gripen C production model is the additional cooling air intake at the base of the fin. Other distinctive changes are the bulged wingroots to accommodate the relocated main landing gear, single-wheel nose unit, and enlarged wingtip missile-launch fairings that house elements of the directed electronic warfare system.

On Thursday last week Saab conducted the maiden flight of its new-generation Gripen E. Test pilot Marcus Wandt lifted off from the Saab plant at Linköping at 10:32 local time for a 40-minute flight during which handling was assessed. Wandt initially kept the undercarriage down while a simulated approach and go-around was conducted, before the gear was raised and the aircraft’s handling assessed in combat mode.

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