Saab JAS 39E Gripen. Advertised heavenly "killer"
The other day, the foreign and Russian press circulated statements by the commander-in-chief of the Swedish Air Force, Major General Mats Helgesson. In his recent speech, he praised the latest Swedish fighters Saab JAS 39E Gripen, and also compared them in an interesting way with Russian Su-class aircraft. The harsh statements of the commander in chief did not go unnoticed.
February 6 General Helgesson said that Gripen fighter jets - especially the newest E version - were created to kill Sukhoi airplanes. In this case, according to the commander in chief, they have a “black belt”. Such statements look very interesting, and are quite capable of becoming a topic of controversy. Let's try to figure out why the Swedish general allowed himself such statements, and also determine how his words correspond to reality.
Circumstances and Prerequisites
First of all, it is necessary to take into account the scene and circumstances in which Major General M. Helgesson made a loud statement about the JAS 39E fighter jets. All this can transparently hint at the reasons and prerequisites for harsh language. It seems that we are talking exclusively about commercial interests and advertising.
Experienced fighter JAS 39E
From 2015, the Finnish Air Force is looking for a new fighter to upgrade its fleet. It is planned to purchase foreign-made equipment that meets the requirements. In 2019, comparative tests of several foreign machines must pass. In 2021, the command will select the winner of the tender and enter into a supply contract.
One of the participants in the Finnish tender is the Swedish company Saab, which introduced the multi-purpose fighter JAS 39E and JAS 39F Gripen. In early February, the Swedish delegation arrived in Finland for regular talks, and it was during these events that M. Helgesson made statements of interest to us. The Swedish delegation claimed that it was their very best bid. However, Stockholm - at least in words - does not plan to put pressure on Helsinki. Finland must choose the best fighter for its air force.
Gripen E prototype during assembly
Thus, statements about JAS 39E as “the killer of the“ Dry ”can be viewed solely as advertising for their aircraft claiming a lucrative contract. There is no other subtext for these statements. Apparently, M. Helgesson does not plan to fight with Russian aircraft - unless, of course, the “Sukhoye” do not join the current tender.
Two modifications
And yet the latest modifications of the Swedish fighter JAS 39 Gripen are of great interest and are worth considering, regardless of how they advertise on the international market. The development of the upgraded version of Gripen was launched in 2007, and by 2013, the design was completed and the construction of the first prototype began. Its first flight experienced fighter JAS 39E (Gripen E) made 15 June 2017; trials are still ongoing. The prototype of the Gripen F has not been built yet.
The roll-out ceremony for the experienced Gripen, 18 May 2016
According to the current plans of Saab and the Swedish Air Force, in the near future, two new versions of the Gripen aircraft will appear at once. The JAS 39E will be a deeply modernized fighter with a single cabin. Also created a project JAS 39F, the most repeating "E", but different from him by a crew of two people. At the beginning of the twenties, Sweden plans to order both new-built cars and modernization of the existing Gripenes.
At the design and construction stage of the prototype, the JAS 39E fighter was presented to the Finnish Air Force, which is in the process of selecting a new technology. This year the Swedish prototype will have to show all its capabilities to potential customers. If the comparative tests in the Finnish Air Force competition succeed, Saab will receive a second order. Under the contract, the Finnish side will be able to get the 52 of the Gripen E and 12 Gripen F.
Benefits on board
According to known data, the JAS 39E / F retrofit project uses well-known and proven principles. The existing airframe, without undergoing major changes, should receive a new turbojet engine of greater power, as well as modern radio-electronic equipment. It is expected that as a result of this update, the aircraft will retain its flight performance, its radar visibility will remain the same. At the same time, their own potential for detecting targets and countering enemy equipment will increase.
Under the nose fairing fighter “E” and “F” will be located active phased array antenna radar Leonardo Raven ES-05. Station weight 215 kg operates in the X-band and provides an overview of the space width 200 °. It is possible to monitor the air and ground situation. Declared a significant increase in the range and reliability of target detection in comparison with the standard radar aircraft of old versions. Also increased the detection range of targets with a small EPR.
An additional means of detection is the Leonardo SkyWard-G infrared optical-location station. This product is intended for review of the front hemisphere and the detection of warm-contrast air or ground targets. OLS is planned to be used as an addition to the main radar. It can also be used as the primary means of observation, not unmasking the carrier aircraft with its own radiation.
Since 2014, the ESTL (Enhanced Survivability Technology) suspension container, equipped with electronic warfare, is being tested. Its main task is to protect the aircraft carrier from enemy missiles. According to some sources, the new projects involve the use of improved EW stations integrated into the design of the aircraft. However, accurate data on this subject is not yet available.
Saab offers an original way to gradually upgrade aircraft, including those in service. It is proposed to increase the potential of technology by constantly updating the software. The company-manufacturer every two years intends to release software updates for on-board equipment. This will allow correcting errors and omissions in time, as well as introducing new functions. Electronics itself will be replaced as needed.
Tests of the engine at the closed stand
According to the results of the proposed modernization, the JAS 39 fighter becomes a bit larger. Dry weight increases from 6,7 to 8 t; maximum - from 14 to 16,5 t. Due to the use of the more powerful General Electric F414-GE-39E engine, it is planned to compensate for the weight gain and maintain the original flight performance.
Increased Ammo
During the finalization of the airframe JAS 39E / F, the number of points of the external suspension was increased to 10 against 8 in JAS 39C / D. Four points are placed under the fuselage, one of which is intended only for the outboard container. Under the wing there are four pylons, two more girder holders are integrated into the wing tips. The maximum mass of ammunition reached 6 tons.
In the case of the single Gripen E, the 27-mm Mauser BK 27 automatic cannon with 120 rounds of ammunition is stored. Double Gripen F modification differs layout of the nose compartment, because of what can not carry a weapon.
Radar Raven ES-05
The upgraded Gripen retains the ability to attack air, ground and surface targets. To combat the enemy aircraft are offered air-to-air missiles of a number of types of Swedish and foreign production. The aircraft carries up to six short-range missiles such as AIM-9 (Rb 74 in the Swedish nomenclature), IRIS-T (Rb 98), etc. It is possible to transport four medium-range or long-range missiles, such as the AIM-120 AMRAAM (Rb 99) or the MBDA MICA.
Ammunition can include four AGM-65 Maverick (Rb 75) air-to-surface missiles or two KEPD 350 cruise missiles. It is also possible to use two anti-ship missiles RBS-15F. On the four underwing pylons blocks with unguided rockets can be suspended. It is possible to use eight unguided Mk 82 bombs, four GBU-12 Paveway II guided bombs or two Bk 90 cassettes.
As far as we know, for the time being, the Swedish Air Force is not planning any cardinal updates on the Gripenov munitions nomenclature. In the foreseeable future, the combat qualities of these aircraft will increase, primarily due to an increase in payload and the use of two additional suspension points.
OLS Leonardo SkyWard
Results of modernization
An experienced Saab JAS 39E Gripen fighter while in flight tests. In the future, a double version of JAS 39F will be tested. The first contract for the supply of such equipment to the Swedish Air Force is expected in the early twenties. The share of the modernized cars in the general park of the Air Forces will reach essential values only in the second half of the next decade. Nevertheless, the Commander-in-Chief of the Air Force now calls the new Gripen E “the killer of the“ Dry ”- even for promotional reasons.
The available data on the Swedish fighters, as well as on the Su-brand aircraft, make it possible to count the statements of Major General M. Helgesson overly bold. It is possible that the new versions of the Gripen are really being created with regard to the opposition “Dry”, but it’s still premature to call them killers with a black belt. JAS 39E / F has not yet been tested and can not yet fully demonstrate its potential - especially in the framework of full-scale operation in the army.
With numerous in all respects the family of "Dry", the situation is different. In many countries, both the rather old Su-27 and the newest Su-35 serve. However, some types of cars "Su" in their numbers have long surpassed the Swedish JAS 39.
Experienced JAS 39E during ground tests, the beginning of 2017.
However, the available information about the Gripen E / F projects does not allow us to downplay the merits of Swedish aircraft manufacturers and deny the results of their work. In the course of recent work, they really managed to create a modern multipurpose fighter of the “4 +” generation (or even “4 ++”), fully capable of fighting an airborne enemy and attacking ground targets. However, the cardinal growth of features and capabilities, as well as full-fledged competition with the 5 generation, is no longer discussed.
Thus, the modernized Swedish JAS 39E and JAS 39F are unlikely to be the killers of the Sukhoi, although they can be their competitors in the international market aviation technicians. The proposed modernization provides for a noticeable increase in core capabilities, which may attract the attention of potential buyers. However, while the only "Gripen" of the new modification is being tested, and the results of the first competition with his participation have not yet been determined.
Obviously, the purpose of the loud statements of the Swedish commander was to create additional advertising for his fighter, claiming a lucrative contract from the Finnish Air Force. These statements had no relation to technical issues or to combat use. Therefore, the Russian public can not worry - “the killers of the“ Dry ”do not carry any real threat. And Russian aircraft manufacturers should bear in mind that another modern aircraft has emerged on the international market that can compete with domestic models.
On the materials of the sites:
https://yle.fi/
https://businessinsider.com/
https://saabgroup.com/
https://leonardocompany.com/
https://gripenblogs.com/
http://airwar.ru/
https://globalsecurity.org/
February 6 General Helgesson said that Gripen fighter jets - especially the newest E version - were created to kill Sukhoi airplanes. In this case, according to the commander in chief, they have a “black belt”. Such statements look very interesting, and are quite capable of becoming a topic of controversy. Let's try to figure out why the Swedish general allowed himself such statements, and also determine how his words correspond to reality.
Circumstances and Prerequisites
First of all, it is necessary to take into account the scene and circumstances in which Major General M. Helgesson made a loud statement about the JAS 39E fighter jets. All this can transparently hint at the reasons and prerequisites for harsh language. It seems that we are talking exclusively about commercial interests and advertising.
Experienced fighter JAS 39E
From 2015, the Finnish Air Force is looking for a new fighter to upgrade its fleet. It is planned to purchase foreign-made equipment that meets the requirements. In 2019, comparative tests of several foreign machines must pass. In 2021, the command will select the winner of the tender and enter into a supply contract.
One of the participants in the Finnish tender is the Swedish company Saab, which introduced the multi-purpose fighter JAS 39E and JAS 39F Gripen. In early February, the Swedish delegation arrived in Finland for regular talks, and it was during these events that M. Helgesson made statements of interest to us. The Swedish delegation claimed that it was their very best bid. However, Stockholm - at least in words - does not plan to put pressure on Helsinki. Finland must choose the best fighter for its air force.
Gripen E prototype during assembly
Thus, statements about JAS 39E as “the killer of the“ Dry ”can be viewed solely as advertising for their aircraft claiming a lucrative contract. There is no other subtext for these statements. Apparently, M. Helgesson does not plan to fight with Russian aircraft - unless, of course, the “Sukhoye” do not join the current tender.
Two modifications
And yet the latest modifications of the Swedish fighter JAS 39 Gripen are of great interest and are worth considering, regardless of how they advertise on the international market. The development of the upgraded version of Gripen was launched in 2007, and by 2013, the design was completed and the construction of the first prototype began. Its first flight experienced fighter JAS 39E (Gripen E) made 15 June 2017; trials are still ongoing. The prototype of the Gripen F has not been built yet.
The roll-out ceremony for the experienced Gripen, 18 May 2016
According to the current plans of Saab and the Swedish Air Force, in the near future, two new versions of the Gripen aircraft will appear at once. The JAS 39E will be a deeply modernized fighter with a single cabin. Also created a project JAS 39F, the most repeating "E", but different from him by a crew of two people. At the beginning of the twenties, Sweden plans to order both new-built cars and modernization of the existing Gripenes.
At the design and construction stage of the prototype, the JAS 39E fighter was presented to the Finnish Air Force, which is in the process of selecting a new technology. This year the Swedish prototype will have to show all its capabilities to potential customers. If the comparative tests in the Finnish Air Force competition succeed, Saab will receive a second order. Under the contract, the Finnish side will be able to get the 52 of the Gripen E and 12 Gripen F.
Benefits on board
According to known data, the JAS 39E / F retrofit project uses well-known and proven principles. The existing airframe, without undergoing major changes, should receive a new turbojet engine of greater power, as well as modern radio-electronic equipment. It is expected that as a result of this update, the aircraft will retain its flight performance, its radar visibility will remain the same. At the same time, their own potential for detecting targets and countering enemy equipment will increase.
Under the nose fairing fighter “E” and “F” will be located active phased array antenna radar Leonardo Raven ES-05. Station weight 215 kg operates in the X-band and provides an overview of the space width 200 °. It is possible to monitor the air and ground situation. Declared a significant increase in the range and reliability of target detection in comparison with the standard radar aircraft of old versions. Also increased the detection range of targets with a small EPR.
An additional means of detection is the Leonardo SkyWard-G infrared optical-location station. This product is intended for review of the front hemisphere and the detection of warm-contrast air or ground targets. OLS is planned to be used as an addition to the main radar. It can also be used as the primary means of observation, not unmasking the carrier aircraft with its own radiation.
Since 2014, the ESTL (Enhanced Survivability Technology) suspension container, equipped with electronic warfare, is being tested. Its main task is to protect the aircraft carrier from enemy missiles. According to some sources, the new projects involve the use of improved EW stations integrated into the design of the aircraft. However, accurate data on this subject is not yet available.
Saab offers an original way to gradually upgrade aircraft, including those in service. It is proposed to increase the potential of technology by constantly updating the software. The company-manufacturer every two years intends to release software updates for on-board equipment. This will allow correcting errors and omissions in time, as well as introducing new functions. Electronics itself will be replaced as needed.
Tests of the engine at the closed stand
According to the results of the proposed modernization, the JAS 39 fighter becomes a bit larger. Dry weight increases from 6,7 to 8 t; maximum - from 14 to 16,5 t. Due to the use of the more powerful General Electric F414-GE-39E engine, it is planned to compensate for the weight gain and maintain the original flight performance.
Increased Ammo
During the finalization of the airframe JAS 39E / F, the number of points of the external suspension was increased to 10 against 8 in JAS 39C / D. Four points are placed under the fuselage, one of which is intended only for the outboard container. Under the wing there are four pylons, two more girder holders are integrated into the wing tips. The maximum mass of ammunition reached 6 tons.
In the case of the single Gripen E, the 27-mm Mauser BK 27 automatic cannon with 120 rounds of ammunition is stored. Double Gripen F modification differs layout of the nose compartment, because of what can not carry a weapon.
Radar Raven ES-05
The upgraded Gripen retains the ability to attack air, ground and surface targets. To combat the enemy aircraft are offered air-to-air missiles of a number of types of Swedish and foreign production. The aircraft carries up to six short-range missiles such as AIM-9 (Rb 74 in the Swedish nomenclature), IRIS-T (Rb 98), etc. It is possible to transport four medium-range or long-range missiles, such as the AIM-120 AMRAAM (Rb 99) or the MBDA MICA.
Ammunition can include four AGM-65 Maverick (Rb 75) air-to-surface missiles or two KEPD 350 cruise missiles. It is also possible to use two anti-ship missiles RBS-15F. On the four underwing pylons blocks with unguided rockets can be suspended. It is possible to use eight unguided Mk 82 bombs, four GBU-12 Paveway II guided bombs or two Bk 90 cassettes.
As far as we know, for the time being, the Swedish Air Force is not planning any cardinal updates on the Gripenov munitions nomenclature. In the foreseeable future, the combat qualities of these aircraft will increase, primarily due to an increase in payload and the use of two additional suspension points.
OLS Leonardo SkyWard
Results of modernization
An experienced Saab JAS 39E Gripen fighter while in flight tests. In the future, a double version of JAS 39F will be tested. The first contract for the supply of such equipment to the Swedish Air Force is expected in the early twenties. The share of the modernized cars in the general park of the Air Forces will reach essential values only in the second half of the next decade. Nevertheless, the Commander-in-Chief of the Air Force now calls the new Gripen E “the killer of the“ Dry ”- even for promotional reasons.
The available data on the Swedish fighters, as well as on the Su-brand aircraft, make it possible to count the statements of Major General M. Helgesson overly bold. It is possible that the new versions of the Gripen are really being created with regard to the opposition “Dry”, but it’s still premature to call them killers with a black belt. JAS 39E / F has not yet been tested and can not yet fully demonstrate its potential - especially in the framework of full-scale operation in the army.
With numerous in all respects the family of "Dry", the situation is different. In many countries, both the rather old Su-27 and the newest Su-35 serve. However, some types of cars "Su" in their numbers have long surpassed the Swedish JAS 39.
Experienced JAS 39E during ground tests, the beginning of 2017.
However, the available information about the Gripen E / F projects does not allow us to downplay the merits of Swedish aircraft manufacturers and deny the results of their work. In the course of recent work, they really managed to create a modern multipurpose fighter of the “4 +” generation (or even “4 ++”), fully capable of fighting an airborne enemy and attacking ground targets. However, the cardinal growth of features and capabilities, as well as full-fledged competition with the 5 generation, is no longer discussed.
Thus, the modernized Swedish JAS 39E and JAS 39F are unlikely to be the killers of the Sukhoi, although they can be their competitors in the international market aviation technicians. The proposed modernization provides for a noticeable increase in core capabilities, which may attract the attention of potential buyers. However, while the only "Gripen" of the new modification is being tested, and the results of the first competition with his participation have not yet been determined.
Obviously, the purpose of the loud statements of the Swedish commander was to create additional advertising for his fighter, claiming a lucrative contract from the Finnish Air Force. These statements had no relation to technical issues or to combat use. Therefore, the Russian public can not worry - “the killers of the“ Dry ”do not carry any real threat. And Russian aircraft manufacturers should bear in mind that another modern aircraft has emerged on the international market that can compete with domestic models.
On the materials of the sites:
https://yle.fi/
https://businessinsider.com/
https://saabgroup.com/
https://leonardocompany.com/
https://gripenblogs.com/
http://airwar.ru/
https://globalsecurity.org/
Information