Singapore Airshow 2026: Saab eyes “share” in future fighter market, targets 2027 CCA demo flight
The Future Combat Aircraft Concept study, which Saab is a core part of, is due to finish by 2029. (Image: Saab)
The Swedish government is expected to make a decision on the next steps of the Future Fighter System Concept programme by 2030, with the current second phase focusing on technology knowledge expansion and demonstration flights.
Saab expects to fly an uncrewed “fighter-like” demonstrator by 2027, the company revealed at the Singapore Airshow 2026 – marking the next stage of its contracted Konceptet Framtidens Stridsflyg (KFS), or Future Combat Aircraft Concept.
The Swedish government in October 2025 extended the original March 2024 contract out to continue development work, which would cover the exploration of crewed and uncrewed platforms. The conceptual studies are being conducted between the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV), Saab and GKN Aerospace.
Phase 1 of the concept programme included research and development work, concept studies and technology developments, according to Saab. Now, it is moving into
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Air Warfare
-
![US plans to raise defence production by 300% but multiple uncertainties remain]()
US plans to raise defence production by 300% but multiple uncertainties remain
The strategy, schedule and budget to support Washington’s intention to speed up the manufacturing of defence capabilities remain unclear.
-
![Switzerland faces procurement shake-up with reduced F-35 buy and five-year Patriot delays]()
Switzerland faces procurement shake-up with reduced F-35 buy and five-year Patriot delays
The reduction in the number of planned F-35A aircraft from 36 to 30 by the Swiss government comes due to budget constraints, with no firm plans to fill the gap despite “negative consequences”.
-
![What will the replacement of A-10s by F-35s mean for the US Air Force?]()
What will the replacement of A-10s by F-35s mean for the US Air Force?
The USAF plans to phase out its 162 in-operation A-10 Thunderbolt II Warthogs by the end of FY2026, replacing them with F-35As which will bring a leap in capabilities in terms of lethality, survivability and speed.
-
![Embraer turns to AI solution for A-29 Super Tucano CUAS evolution]()
Embraer turns to AI solution for A-29 Super Tucano CUAS evolution
The AI solution is called Gunslinger, which will be used to assist the pilot in decision-making for counter-drone operations.
