JAS 39 Gripen – the aircraft
The JAS 39 Gripen is a multi-role aircraft which also has the capability to switch roles mid-air between air–to-air combat, ground attack and reconnaissance missions. Gripen is also a very capable information system. Today, the JAS 39A/B operate with the data link network FV2000. Gripen is a single-engine delta wing aircraft with adjustable nose wings (canards), double trailing edge rudders and conventional fins. The aircraft also has control surfaces along the leading edge of the wing and two airbrakes far back on the sides of the aircraft. The air intake is located on the sides with D-shaped openings. The aircraft is designed for use with load factors up to 9G.
Gripen is constructed to withstand very high flight safety conditions, low pilot stress and low maintenance costs. It is a small, fuel efficient aircraft with simple maintenance and high reliability. That means that the cost per flight hour and the total life-time costs are lower than for other similar aircraft systems.
Gripen's inbuilt ability to undertake different types of mission forms the basis of its operational flexibility. All hardware and software is integral to the aircraft. The pilots are trained for all combat missions, which means that every individual Gripen can be used for the precise requirements of each situation.
The high level of computerisation means high flexibility and allows for changes in the future. Many tactical and technical changes can quickly be introduced by updating software in the computers; the installation of the new software in the aircraft can be carried out in formation. Quick and uncomplicated maintenance on the ground between different missions has important implications for the aircraft system’s total efficiency. Gripen is designed for high reliability and mission output.
The JAS 39A is a single-seat aircraft and the JAS 39B is a two-seater aircraft. The aircraft is easy to maintain in the field and is designed to be operable with or without tactical ground support. It can land on and take off from a landing strip just 800 m long.
The JAS 39C/D (Batch 3) commenced delivery to the air force in 2003. The aircraft is also equipped with full-colour cockpit displays and mid-air refuelling. The JAS 39D, the new version of the two-seater Gripen, is designed for use in conflicts from 2010 and beyond.
The JAS 39 Gripen has an electrical control system, which is easy to maintain. The aircraft can carry approximately five tonnes of weapons and external loads on eight pods located on the wings and fuselage. The loads can be combined so that the aircraft can be used in all three roles during the same mission; fighter, attack and reconnaissance.