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| Saab JAS 39 Gripen C/D fighter jets |
Sweden has begun the process of modernizing its aircraft armament, announcing negotiations with Germany to integrate the Taurus KEPD-350 Air-Launched Cruise Missile (ALCM) into its Saab JAS 39 Gripen C/D fighter jets. This solution opens up new horizons for the Swedish Air Force, significantly expanding its capabilities in the field of long-range strike and strategic defense.
The Taurus KEPD-350 cruise missile was developed jointly by the German company MBDA and the Swedish Saab. It is a high-precision long-range weapon capable of covering significant distances (up to 500 km) and hitting strategically important targets, including well-protected facilities. Due to its unique design, the missile can fly at low altitude, using the terrain to evade enemy air defense systems.
Main features of the Taurus KEPD-350:
- Maximum range: up to 500 km.
- Speed: subsonic.
- Warhead: multifunctional, capable of penetrating and destroying fortified targets.
- Navigation: combined GPS/INS system and digital image correlation.
The integration of such a system on Gripen fighters will enable Sweden to conduct operations at a great distance from bases, minimizing the risk of aircraft and crew losses.
To implement the project, Sweden ordered research from Saab on the integration of the Taurus KEPD-350 with JAS 39 Gripen C/D fighters. These studies focus on the technical compatibility of the rocket with the aircraft's onboard systems, including electronics, software, and physical mounts. The process also involves adapting the ground infrastructure to service new weapons.
Negotiations with German colleagues are aimed at speeding up this process, as Germany has already successfully operated the Taurus KEPD-350 on its Eurofighter Typhoon aircraft. The experience of the German Air Force can be an invaluable source of information for Swedish specialists.
The adoption of the Taurus KEPD-350 is of great strategic importance for Sweden. First, it enhances the country's ability to strike remote and well-protected targets, which is especially important in modern conflicts. Secondly, the acquisition of such weapons demonstrates Sweden's desire to strengthen its defense autonomy and ability to act as an independent player in the region.
In addition, the integration of the Taurus KEPD-350 with the Gripen highlights the close defense cooperation between Sweden and Germany. This partnership can become the basis for future joint projects aimed at developing technologies and increasing the combat capability of both states.
The installation of the Taurus KEPD-350 on the JAS 39 Gripen C/D will be an important milestone in the development of the Swedish fighter. Although this aircraft is known for its maneuverability and versatility, the addition of long-range weapons will make it an even more effective tool for complex tasks. It will also increase the attractiveness of Gripen for other countries considering the possibility of purchasing it.
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