Swedish company Saab is currently working on developing a full-size fighter unmanned system within the next-generation combat aviation program. The first flight ofits demonstrator is planned for 2027.
Company representatives shared this at Singapore Airshow 2026, AIN reports. They claim development uses unique Gripen developments regarding split software architecture.
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Mission-critical software is separated from operational software, enabling rapid and continuous aircraft updates. Saab states this will allow easier adaptation to other platforms.
Unmanned fighters already exist on the market, but the Swedes believe being first in this category will not be a decisive factor. However, they still have not found an engine supplier for their drone, as they purchase engines from the U.S. for Gripens.
In 2023, Sweden withdrew from the British-Italian-Japanese sixth-generation GCAP aircraft project, choosing to go independently. However, according to relevant programs, a decision about finding a new partner, joining some project, or purchasing ready aircraft will be made by 2030.
€400 million has already gone toward initial research in this direction, with another €243 million for the second phase. Results and a corresponding proposal are expected to be submitted to the government no later than 2027.
Defense Express notes that Sweden appears to be seeking the ability to have its own unmanned fighters using existing Gripen experience. The latter is scheduled to fly until 2060. Regarding the drone program, it is called F-series and began in 2024.
The stated advantages regarding adaptation to any platform could genuinely prove useful, providing an additional chance to obtain contracts from other countries or become part of a foreign project. At the same time, with first flight in 2027, questions exist whether Saab will manage to roll out its development on time, as foreign alternatives are already undergoing weapons testing.
With the threat of FCAS sixth-generation aircraft project collapse, Germany faces a crossroads. Since independent development is quite expensive, it is quite likely they could unite with Sweden, discussions about which have been ongoing for some time.
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