Saab is launching its plans for a new Gripen Demonstrator programme in partnership with some of the world's leading aerospace companies. "This programme will keep Gripen at the leading edge well beyond 2040", says Johan Lehander, Managing Director Gripen International.

A powerful partnership between Saab and some of the world's leading aerospace companies has been established to prepare the launch of the Gripen Demonstrator programme. This new programme is aimed at demonstrating a range of future technologies and capabilities to ensure that Gripen remains at the leading edge of fighter aircraft performance and capability well beyond 2040.

The demonstrator programme will include the development of a new Gripen test flying platform - Gripen Demo - and the Gripen Avionics Rig. Gripen Demo will include new features such as a new engine with increased thrust, an AESA radar, increased range, new landing gear, increased weapons and stores capabilities and enhanced avionics structures. The programme is driven by the future needs of current and potential customers, and incorporates state-of-the-art technology that will keep Gripen at the leading edge well into the future.

This programme complements and enhances Gripen's ongoing technology insertion programme with the highly successful Gripen C/D version now being delivered to customers worldwide.

Investment in the programme will be made by Saab and its international industrial partners, as well as potential future customers. In April 2007, Norway signed a Letter of Agreement regarding the future development of Gripen, valued at around USD 25 million, and the Swedish government is also expected to make a decision soon. These decisions represent a significant national and international government investment and commitment to Gripen's future.

General Electric together with Volvo, Honeywell, Rockwell Collins, APPH, Martin-Baker and Terma are just some of the world-leading aerospace companies that, together with Saab, will jointly invest in the Gripen Demonstrator programme. Saab is continuing its discussions with other industrial partners and suppliers regarding further investment in the programme.

This combination of international corporate partnership and national and international commitment, through a jointly funded industry and government investment programme, is a very powerful testament to Gripen's future.

"The Gripen Demonstrator programme, supported by our world leading industrial partners, will strengthen our position in the international market and will keep Gripen at the leading edge throughout its lifetime, well beyond 2040", says Johan Lehander Managing Director Gripen International.