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27 July 2000
To ensure The Saab-BAE SYSTEMS Gripen fourth-generation multi-role fighter remains at the forefront of combat systems capability for decades to come, further technology insertion is planned. For this reason, pre-development programmes in the key areas of propulsion, sensors and weapons are underway.
Gripen has the built-in ability to absorb future improvements and developments with ease. Its five MIL-STD-1553B databuses are currently used to just 50 per cent of capacity, giving considerable growth potential.
Future system upgrades will be software-based, cost effective and relatively straightforward, unlike update programmes for older third-generation aircraft which are typically more costly and require the fleet to be grounded for significant periods of time.
A wide range of future weapons including both laser-guided and all weather weapons are being considered for future integration. This includes, Meteor, Brimstone and IRIS-T among others. Additionally, NATO standard pylons ensure that any suitable weapon in the NATO inventory can also be integrated.
Cockpit adaptation for use with night vision goggles will provide Gripen with a day and night low level operational capability and a helmet mounted display will be integrated to further reduce pilot workload in combat environments.
Survivability is to be further enhanced by a new highly advanced EW system and internal jammer and provision for additional chaff/flare capacity through further dispensers in the rear fuselage and air-to-air missile launcher.
Gripen's communications system, which includes the world's most advanced and mature in-service datalink, will also be further developed to provide improved functionality and flexibility in support of the TARAS tactical radio system. TARAS represents the next-generation in communication systems, providing greatly improved capabilities despite fast developing electronic warfare threats.
The core of this system will be common to both the Swedish domestic aircraft and export versions, utilising the same NATO compatible radios in order to support international operations. Where appropriate, Gripen will be equipped with a fully NATO compatible IFF system with Mode 4 capability.
While the Volvo RM12 engine which equips Gripen today fulfills all requirements, full authority digital engine control (FADEC) is being introduced. This change will reduce engine through-life costs through an increased ability to control engine operating conditions together with enhanced engine and control system monitoring. It also provides further growth potential for engine performance.
Longer-term, Saab, BAE SYSTEMS and their partners are studying further technology growth for Gripen, including the introduction of active electronically scanned array radar and infra-red search and track.
REF XQQEE XQQAR
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