The South African Air Force’s first of 28 Gripen C/D multirole fighters completed a 1h 10min debut flight from Saab’s Linköping site in Sweden on 11 November. South Africa’s first of nine Gripen Ds will be transferred to the country next August for avionics and weapon system integration trials, starting with air-to-ground stores. The air force will accept its first operational aircraft in March 2008.
Source: Flight International
Stockholm’s selection of a new-generation tactical airlifter will be a “political decision”, says Swedish air force chief Major General Jonas Wikman.
The January incident at Ellsworth AFB resulted in the destruction of the $450 million bomber and a rare quadruple ejection of the crew, who were attempting to execute an instrument landing during poor weather.
Athens signed a long-sought letter of offer and acceptance with airframer Lockheed Martin covering 20 F-35 stealth fighters, with options for a further 20 jets.
