Saab has shared its plans for a new air combat complex consisting of the new fighter, Gripen-E fighter, and three unmanned platforms.
Saab shared its new programme, F-series, similar to GCAP and European FCAS, on Sweden's SVT TV channel.
The first component of this complex is a next-generation fighter jet with a size identical to the JAS-39 Gripen in use. The design appears to incorporate V-tail and stealth characteristics judging from the overall structure.
The unmanned fighter is planned as a platform of more than five tonnes of weight. The design was previously shared, featuring a tailless layout, stealthy fuselage, and a radome. The unmanned fighter also rivals Gripen in terms of size.
A subsonic unmanned combat aircraft is also shown, with a layout reminiscent of fifth-generation fighters. This might be a cheaper option with sufficient manoeuvrability to keep up with Gripen.
Finally, a much smaller subsonic unmanned platform with a layout emphasising endurance is likely a remote sensor to provide ISR support to the combatant wing.
Sweden's preference for cost-efficient fighters for its air force is seen as one of the leading factors in the departure from the GCAP programme of the U.K., Japan, and Italy. GCAP envisions a large-sized fighter that will likely be costly, conflicting with the preferences above.
