Aviation News – The Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) has awarded Saab a contract worth approximately $303 million (SEK 2.9 billion) to continue concept work and technological development for Sweden’s future fighter system. The major defense order supports extensive research and demonstration efforts covering both manned and unmanned systems through 2028, with options extending into 2030.
The new agreement directly builds upon foundational concept studies initially commissioned in 2024 and expanded in 2025. Under the contract period running from 2026 to 2028, Saab will execute comprehensive development cycles designed to evaluate next-generation military aviation architectures. This continuous investment strategy aims to preserve Sweden’s national capabilities while reducing technical risks associated with long-term air defense modernization.
The scope of work encompasses both flying and ground-based demonstrators, along with advanced conceptual studies for future crewed and uncrewed platforms. Key technical areas focused on within the program include systems integration, autonomy, signature adaptation, propulsion, digital development, and future production capabilities.
Through these multi-disciplinary studies, Saab aims to establish proven technological building blocks that maintain Sweden’s operational freedom of action for future strategic choices. Operating these physical and digital testing environments allows defense engineers to test complex automated features and stealth configurations before committing to full-scale manufacturing.
“We are very pleased that FMV continues to show confidence in Saab through this new contract,” said Lars Tossman, head of Saab’s business area Aeronautics. “The work is crucial to further develop and demonstrate new technologies that will be central to future fighter system.”
This initiative establishes a strong technological base for Sweden as defense leaders chart the long-term evolution of its air combat strategy. By testing advanced operational concepts early, the nation secures the flexibility needed to select optimal flight architectures over the next decade.
The $303 million contract ensures Saab remains at the forefront of European military aviation innovation. Combining research into autonomous systems and crewed jet capabilities provides FMV with essential technical insights. Ultimately, this development work guarantees that Sweden maintains high-level defense readiness and strategic autonomy far into the future.
