Sweden Taps GKN, Saab to Design Concepts for Future Fighter Jet

March 27, 2024

GKN Aerospace is developing design concepts for next generation combat aircraft under a new contract from the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV). (Image: GKN Aerospace)

GKN Aerospace and Saab have both signed new deals with the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) to develop conceptual studies for advanced power and propulsion systems to support future fighter systems. The agreement runs for two years, from 2024 to 2025, with the potential for a follow-on phase beyond.

The contract covers conceptual studies of power and propulsion systems for the next-generation of combat air capabilities, based on exploring both existing and future technology and performing demonstrations. Under the contract, GKN and Saab will collaborate with Swedish Armed Forces, FMV, FOI and other national and international industry partners. The studies will help create the foundation for future fighter systems and continue the path of innovative Swedish-developed fighter systems.

GKN Aerospace will seek and develop collaboration with partners working with a range of power and propulsion systems and disruptive technologies, which are expected to play an important role for any future air combat capability.

"GKN Aerospace is a world-leader in engine systems and a design partner for the world’s most successful commercial engines. We are also the OEM capability for the JAS 39 Gripen C/D RM12 engines worldwide and are continuing to establish the product support capability for the RM16 engine, powering the JAS 39 Gripen E. This contract will enable us to further strengthen our capability and support our customers with necessary data for future combat air capabilities," said Stefan Oscarsson, Vice President Governmental Solutions at GKN Aerospace.

Alongside these studies, GKN Aerospace has entered a new cooperation agreement with Saab to strengthen their partnership developing innovative solutions across a range of areas, including next-generation fighter systems.

“We are extremely proud of our role in the Swedish defense ecosystem. GKN Aerospace is currently upgrading the RM12, delivering additional engines for the Gripen aircraft to Hungary and establishing engine product support for the Gripen E. The Gripen will continue to be the backbone of Sweden and several other nations’ air forces for decades to come and we will continue to ensure availability for our customers," said Oscarsson.

Trollhättan, in Sweden, is also GKN Aerospace’s center of excellence for ground-breaking additive fabrication technology, which was recently bolstered by a £50m investment in the capability. The new production capabilities will enable the business to industrialize its additive fabrication solutions, lower environmental impact, and to meet the requirements of future generations of power and propulsion systems.

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