Saab reveals next-gen uncrewed combat air system concept

A full-scale model of the A3-001 uncrewed combat air concept has been shown at the Jubilee Air Show in Linköping, Sweden.

Saab is displaying a full-scale concept model of a future uncrewed combat air system at the Jubilee Air Show at Malmen Air Base in Linköping, Sweden. The concept, designated A3-001, illustrates how crewed and uncrewed platforms could operate together as part of an integrated future combat air capability.

The uncrewed platform builds on Saab’s aerospace development work and is positioned as a potential complement to Gripen and future crewed combat aircraft. It is envisioned for high-risk missions including electronic warfare, suppression of enemy air defences and precision strike in contested environments. Low observability, a high degree of autonomy and the ability to operate across multiple domains are cited as key characteristics of the concept.

Peter Nilsson, head of business unit Advanced Programs at Saab, says: “We are currently in an intensive development phase where, together with Sweden, we are exploring technologies that will lay the foundation for the next generation of combat air systems. As part of this work, we intend to fly uncrewed demonstrators with fighter-like characteristics before 2030 as we support Sweden in considering their future options.”

Nilsson adds: “This separate Saab A3 system is our own concept for what could follow in the mid-2030s should Sweden decide to build on the work we are currently doing. Saab is well positioned to develop the next generation of combat air systems building on Gripen and GlobalEye, combined with our long experience in advanced aerospace systems.”

The full-scale model is on public display throughout the Swedish Armed Forces Air Show and represents a potential uncrewed component within a future system-of-systems approach to air warfare. It follows Saab’s stated ambition to fly fighter-like uncrewed demonstrators before the end of the decade, ahead of any Swedish decision on a next-generation combat air programme.