Embraer, Saab and the Brazilian Air Force have presented the first Gripen E fighter aircraft produced in Brazil during a ceremony at Embraer’s facility in Gavião Peixoto.
Production milestone
The aircraft is part of Brazil’s Gripen programme under a 2014 contract covering 36 aircraft, including 28 Gripen E and 8 Gripen F variants.
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The Gavião Peixoto facility is responsible for producing the aircraft using a combination of Brazilian and international supply chains, including aerostructures manufactured at Saab’s São Bernardo do Campo site.
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Testing and delivery process
Before delivery, the aircraft will undergo functional testing and production flight tests. Once completed, it will be transferred to the Brazilian Air Force.
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To date, 10 aircraft have been delivered and are operated by the First Defence Group at Anápolis Air Force Base.
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Operational deployment
According to the Brazilian Air Force, the aircraft has been operating Quick Reaction Alert missions since February from Anápolis, covering the federal government district.
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Programme continuation
A further 14 aircraft under the current contract will follow the same production model.
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The Gripen E is designed for multi-role operations, including air defence, reconnaissance and strike missions, and incorporates integrated avionics, sensors and network-based systems.
SOURCE AND IMAGE: EMBRAER
