Maintenance and Modifications
Saab Flies Gripen Fighter With 3D-Printed Replacement Part
3D printers could be deployed in the field to manufacture spare parts rather than rely on a sizeable spares pack or time-consuming deliveries.
JAS 39D Gripen “822” is seen during the March 19 test flight from Linköping. The 3D-printed replacement hatch is clearly visible on the rear fuselage side. (Photo: Saab)
JAS 39D Gripen “822” is seen during the March 19 test flight from Linköping. The 3D-printed replacement hatch is clearly visible on the rear fuselage side. (Photo: Saab)

Saab conducted a test flight on March 19 with its JAS 39D Gripen two-seat trials aircraft. The aircraft flew successfully with a 3D-printed component to test and demonstrate how this technology could be employed in the future to assist battlefield damage repair.