Sweden has contracted Saab to continue conceptual studies and technology development for the country’s next-generation combat aircraft systems.
Valued at 2.6 billion Swedish krona ($274 million), the agreement builds on a contract signed in 2024 under Stockholm’s Koncept för Framtida Stridsflyg, or Future Combat Aviation Concept program.
This initiative explores manned and unmanned aircraft within a “system-of-systems” framework, including advanced technology demonstrators and prototype testing.
As part of the effort, Saab will work closely with the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV), Swedish Armed Forces, Swedish Defence Research Agency, GKN Aerospace, and other collaborators.
It will eventually support Stockholm’s long-term strategy on whether to develop a new-generation fighter to replace the NATO member’s homegrown Gripen fleet by the 2040s.
The contract covers 2025 to 2027, ahead of a government decision on the program’s additional phase in 2030.
‘Basis for Future Decisions’
FMV said the effort strengthens Sweden’s long-term combat aviation development and preserves vital industrial and research expertise.
“This extension ensures continuity in the development work and is an important part of developing and verifying technology that can form the basis for future decisions about Swedish combat aviation capabilities,” said Carl-Fredrik Edström, head of FMV’s aerospace equipment division.
“Given the long development cycles in the combat aviation field, it is important that we already build knowledge, test technology and prepare future paths.”
‘Next Step’
Saab echoed FMV’s sentiments, describing the extension deal as a critical milestone in advancing the Nordic country’s modern air combat assets, bolstering domestic design capacity and interoperability with allied air power for the coming decades.
“This order sets the next step on our joint journey in delivering innovative solutions to meet future operational needs of the Swedish Armed Forces and other customers,” said Lars Tossman, head of Saab’s Aeronautics business area.
