Sweden’s Saab has received a 1 billion Swedish krona ($104 million) order from the nation’s defense procurement agency to begin series production of a next-generation missile launcher for Gripen fighter jets. The system, developed and tested under an earlier contract, enhances the link between the aircraft’s weapon pylons and air-to-air missiles or countermeasure pods, providing faster data transmission and improved targeting precision. The launcher will be integrated on both Gripen C/D and E variants, boosting Sweden’s air combat readiness and modernization drive. Saab officials said the program forms part of Sweden’s broader effort to keep its fighter fleet competitive amid emerging regional threats. The company is also advancing complementary air defense technologies, including the RBS 70 NG portable system and the RBS 98 medium-range missile platform, which strengthen national and NATO-integrated defense layers. Recent investments in GlobalEye early warning aircraft and Archer artillery modernization demonstrate Sweden’s accelerated military enhancement following its NATO accession.
