Brazil's first F-39 Gripen is already flying with the Saab-designed aerodynamic improvements. The flight of the FAB 4100 – a unit used for tests and flight trials – with the new elevons was recorded by the channel Brazil Aviation Araraquara SP this Tuesday morning (05).
The images show the F-39 making a series of low es near the Embraer facilities in Gavião Peixoto (SP). There is the Gripen Flight Test Center (GFTC) and the fighter assembly line. The 4100 is also carrying an external fuel tank.
Saab has made several aerodynamic improvements to the Gripen E, but the most notable are in the larger elevons. The elevon is a control surface installed on the back of the Gripen's wings. It combines the functions of the elevator and aileron, acting for the ascent and descent movements (pitch) and lateral roll. On the Gripen, the elevons also function as flaps, increasing the fighter's lift during landing.
The largest elevons increase Gripen maneuverability at lower speeds, giving the pilot more amplitude in the plane's movements. It is likely that landing speed will also decrease. Visually, the delta wing characteristics increased and became more triangular.
According to Johan Segertoft, head of Saab's Gripen business unit, the manufacturer also improved the canards and wings and made software updates. The upgrades are a considerable bonus as they increase the Gripen's capabilities to carry heavier loads, such as weapons and fuel tanks. “These changes bring immediate benefits, demonstrate our ability to reliably generate growth and consistently improve aircraft potential for the future,” said Johan.
The executive confirmed that the modifications will become the standard configuration for Gripen fighters from Sweden, Brazil and other customers, being installed on the production line. The aircraft already delivered will receive the modifications later, as is the case with the 4100 that is being used for testing.
The F-39s already delivered to Brazilian air force they will be modified in 2024. So far, the FAB has already received eight two 36 Gripens acquired in 2014, of which seven are in service with the Jaguar Squadron (1st Air Defense Group) at Anápolis Air Base (GO).
