Update: Saab flies first series-production Gripen E for Sweden

Saab has flown the first series-production Gripen E aircraft for Sweden, the company announced on 3 December.

An image of aircraft 6002 flying in a new splinter tri-tone grey camouflage pattern reminiscent of the Swedish Air Force’s (SwAF’s) green and brown scheme from the Cold War was released by the company.

The first series-production Gripen E for Sweden, aircraft 6002, flew in a new splinter tri-tone grey camouflage pattern reminiscent of the Swedish Air Force’s green and brown scheme from the Cold War. (Saab/Marcus Wandt)

While 6002 was shown with SwAF roundels, a Saab representative was unable to say if it is the first aircraft that will be delivered to the service. This particular airframe might go to the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) for testing, and might remain with the organisation rather than being subsequently handed over to the SwAF. Saab also has three flying Gripen E prototypes in aircraft 39-8, 39-9 and 39-10, and it is unclear if some or all of these will remain Saab assets or if they will be refurbished and delivered to the SwAF/FMV ahead of 6002.

Saab was able to tell Janes that 6002 departed Linköping for the first time on 30 November, and flew for 76 minutes. In this time, the aircraft ticked-off various test points to verify basic handling and flying qualities at different altitudes and speeds. The flight was successful, several test points where done and the aircraft performed just as expected, Janes was told.