Neuron UCAV demonstrator takes flight

Saab has announced that the Neuron Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicle (UCAV) demonstrator has completed its first flight in French Istres achieving a major milestone in the aircraft’s design, development and production programme.

Neuron is the first large size stealth platform designed in Europe. It is a demonstrator optimised and intended for the testing of various key technologies and will not enter serial production. The aim of the programme is to develop expertise among participating nations and industries in advanced aeronautics.

Saab has played an important role in the programme, and is responsible for avionics, fuel systems, critical parts of the ground station, as well as the design and production of the main fuselage. The fuselage was delivered to Dassault Aviation in France in 2011. Saab has also been involved in flight testing, aerodynamics and stealth technology.
The demonstrator will now undergo further flight testing, and is expected to fly in Sweden in 2014.

Mats Palmberg vice president and head of marketing and future products, at Saab’s business area Aeronautics, said: ‘This first flight demonstrates Saab’s ability to develop and produce advanced aeronautics products. The Neuron programme has resulted in experiences that will further enhance Saab’s competiveness with regard to high-tech and cost efficient design and production methods. The knowledge gained is being used in the development of the next-generation Gripen, our civil production and future activities within Unmanned Aerial Systems.’