Swedish defense company Saab has unveiled the first images of a scale model of its new unmanned fighter jet, being developed as part of the F-series program to operate alongside the Gripen.
Although the video is only 11 seconds long and does not show the system from all angles, it is still possible to draw some conclusions.
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The unmanned fighter jet, whose name has not yet been announced, features a tailless design with a delta wing and no leading-edge horizontal stabilizer. Most notably, Saab has opted to do without a vertical stabilizer.
The absence of traditional vertical stabilizers is a rather bold decision that significantly reduces the jet's radar signature. At the same time, it appears that the Swedish designers tailored the entire design of the unmanned fighter specifically to this objective. Overall, the mockup closely matches the concept shown earlier, which is relatively unusual.
The distinctive sawtooth shape of the fuselage around the engine nozzle is particularly noticeable. This feature is intended to reduce the radar signature from the rear. The same design is used on the F-35.
All access hatches are also designed with similar sawtooth-shaped profiles. This helps significantly reduce the aircraf's radar cross section.
As for its equipment, the Saab unmanned fighter jet appears to be equipped with a compact radar, as indicated by the nose cone.
In addition, the aircraft will be equipped with additional sensors mounted along its sides. For now, however, their purpose remains unclear.
However, they are also mounted on the sides of the aircraft's nose, providing side coverage in both the upper and lower hemispheres.
However, the Swedish unmanned fighter jet is not equipped with an integrated electro-optical targeting system. This raises questions about its ability to attack ground targets with weapons that require laser guidance.
As for armament, given the overall concept of the Swedish unmanned fighter, it will be housed in internal compartments.
It should be noted that Saab has scheduled the first flight of the demonstrator for 2027. This aircraft is the ideal counterpart to the Gripen E/F models selected to reinforce the Ukrainian Air Force.
From the Defense Express side, we urges you to join a fundraising for what is already working: One United Fundraiser: Fundraising by the Serhiy Prytula Charity Foundation for interceptor drones.
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