Rafael lifts the veil on Aerospike
New air-to-surface missile for fixed-wing aircraft from Rafael is optimised for close air support, counterterrorism and anti-A2AD applications.
The aircraft is designed to carry a range of weaponry, fuel tanks, EW, FLIR and reconnaissance pods. (Photo: Saab)
The Swedish Defence Materiel Administration has awarded a SEK500 million (almost $53 million) contract to Saab to enhance and ensure the continued operation of Swedish JAS 39 Gripen C/D.
The purpose of the contract is to fulfil the Swedish Armed Force’s need to maintain the operational capabilities of Gripen C/D up to 2035.
The development is also done to further ensure a cost-effective solution regarding the platform’s construction, design and procurement.
This order represents a continuation of Saab’s efforts to maintain the Swedish Gripen fleet. Last April, the company received a contract extension worth SEK1.6 billion (almost $169 million) for a similar purpose.
According to Shephard Defence Insight, Sweden currently operates 95 Gripen C/D. Other operators of the fourth-generation multirole fighter include the Czech Republic, Hungary, Sweden and Thailand.
While Sweden plans to keep its Gripen C/D fleet in service until 2035, the nation placed an order for 60 Gripen E/F in 2013, which just entered serial delivery phase last November.
New air-to-surface missile for fixed-wing aircraft from Rafael is optimised for close air support, counterterrorism and anti-A2AD applications.
India continues to develop its BrahMos missile, with the extended-range type recently tested.
India has set in motion yet another tender process to buy UAVs, this time quadcopters able to fly at altitude.
RUAG has announced the completion of the Swiss Cougar modernisation programme, which lasted around three years.
To speed up acquisition, Australia has selected the Austrian-designed Camcopter for a naval UAV requirement.
Replacing European-designed helicopters, Australia has turned back to the US for attack and naval rotorcraft.