RUAG prepares to make Gripen E/F payload suspensions
RUAG Aerostructures is ready to begin serial production of payload suspension pylons for the Saab Gripen E/F, following final airworthiness test acceptance in late August.
This is the latest milestone in co-operation between RUAG and Saab on development and manufacture of the pylons, under a 2015 contract between the two companies that is worth more than CHF80 million.
Payload suspensions are devices designed to carry additional fuel tanks, reconnaissance systems or guided missiles. They are complex technological components with electronic and mechanical systems, RUAG noted in a 10 September announcement, and they must meet the highest requirements with regard to aerodynamics and load capacity.
More than 500 pylons (up to ten per aircraft, with RUAG manufacturing eight of them) will be built for Gripen E/Fs to be operated by the Brazilian and Swedish air forces.
As part of our promise to deliver comprehensive coverage to our Defence Insight and Premium News subscribers, our curated defence news content provides the latest industry updates, contract awards and programme milestones.
Related Programmes in Defence Insight
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Air Warfare
-
![Singapore Airshow 2026: RSAF refreshes air transport capability as part of force modernisation]()
Singapore Airshow 2026: RSAF refreshes air transport capability as part of force modernisation
Singapore is understood to have received three of four ex-Spanish C-130Hs from Blue Aerospace in recent weeks.
-
![“Dramatic leaps in processing capability”: how GDMS–UK is evolving mission systems for the modern battlespace]()
“Dramatic leaps in processing capability”: how GDMS–UK is evolving mission systems for the modern battlespace
In Conversation... Shephard’s Gerrard Cowan talks to Sam Steggall, GDMS–UK’s Senior Director – Air and Naval UK, about the company’s extensive and proven in-country capability to deliver complex avionics solutions and its key role on major Royal Air Force and Royal Navy aircraft programmes.
-
![Why the F-16 fighter jet remains a force to be reckoned with (updated 2026)]()
Why the F-16 fighter jet remains a force to be reckoned with (updated 2026)
The Lockheed Martin F-16 fighter jet remains in the limelight more than 40 years after its first flight. Shephard sums up the latest developments and details everything you need to know about the aircraft in 2026.
-
![Airbus Helicopters sees defence portfolio’s “strong momentum” continue into 2026]()
Airbus Helicopters sees defence portfolio’s “strong momentum” continue into 2026
The aerospace company’s 2025 performance figures revealed significant orders from various European armed forces and a boost in demand for its uncrewed offerings.
-
![January Drone Digest: MALE, rotary-wing and loitering munition UAVs dominate early 2026]()
January Drone Digest: MALE, rotary-wing and loitering munition UAVs dominate early 2026
The first month of 2026 has seen activity in the MALE, rotary-wing, and loitering munition UAV markets, with significant investments and commitments from Germany, Turkey, the UAE and the US. At the same time, questions over loitering munition performance in Ukraine highlight the growing scrutiny alongside rising demand.
