Saab’s Gripen NG demonstrator is back in the air, this time fitted with a Selex Galileo active electronically scanned array radar (AESA). The aircraft was returned to the flight test program at the end of last month.
As well as being fitted with the Selex AESA, the demonstrator has been fitted with revised sat-comms and an electro-optical missile approach warning system. The increased internal fuel capacity can also now be exploited.
The Selex AESA uses a “swashplate” design that allows the angled antenna face to be rotated, intended to provide the system with a greater look angle than fixed AESA systems. It also confers potential advantages in beyond visual range missile engagements.
Way to go, Saab - Not bad to be flying in early November, when it was only the beginning of the year when the French ratted out on the Thales AESA plan. Wide-angle radar (also on the Su-35) means that you can continue to track the adversary and guide your missile while evading his shot.
Nice integration of the MAW-300 sensor from what I can tell being all internal. And a good thing they don't have to waste time on the thales array since it was never intended for the NG anyway.
According to Flight Global SAAB's Bob Kemp indicated that the Thales AESA was 'not up to speeds' and thus scraped. A marketing gloss over or bad news for the Vichy?
Close ups of the MAW-farings, curtesy of Signatory at militaryphotos.net:
http://i34.tinypic.com/zvbqzl.jpg
http://i36.tinypic.com/262rtsh.jpg
B. Bolsøy
Oslo