A new 6th Generation Fighter design has been revealed, and it's not from the U.S.
Sweden has revealed its 6th generation fighter, and it comes complete with an ecosystem of advanced technologies.
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Table of Contents:
Overview:
Historical Development
Specifications
Concept of Operations
Systems Engineering Requirements
Calculations and Analysis
Implications and Future Considerations
Conclusion
References
Overview:
The Saab F-series concept, as the successor to the JAS 39 Gripen, represents Sweden's approach to the next generation of air combat systems. This next geneneration of combat systems does not just consist of a new aircraft, but will now be a comprehensive integration of manned and unmanned platforms, advanced AI, and network-centric operations.
Key aspects of this Sweden's approach include:
Modular design philosophy
AI-driven decision support
Flexible force composition
Stealth and survivability
Interoperability
Modular Design Philosophy
The F-series concept significantly expands on Saab's modular design philosophy, which was initially developed for the JAS 39 Gripen fighter. This approach allows for easy upgrades, adaptability to new threats, and simplified maintenance across the entire fleet.
The F-series ecosystem consists of several platforms:
Crewed future fighter:
Saab's crewed future fighter concept showcases a blended wing/body configuration that seamlessly integrates the wing and fuselage, designed for high speed and low observability. A distinctive feature of the design is the prominent chine that runs along the forward edges, enhancing aerodynamic performance and contributing to radar cross-section reduction. The fighter utilizes cropped swept wings for improved high-speed performance, and possibly outward-canted stabilizers to enhance maneuverability while further reducing its radar signature. The entire airframe is optimized for supersonic efficiency, employing area-rule design principles to minimize transonic drag and improve performance at high speeds. The overall design appears to bear similarity/homage to the Saab 35 Draken, a supersonic fighter from the Cold-War Era, distinctive for a double delta wing:
Supersonic uncrewed platform (over 5 tons):
The supersonic uncrewed platform shares several design elements with the crewed fighter. It features stealthy chisel-type air intakes reminiscent of the F-22. This platform utilizes the same afterburning General Electric F414 engine as the Gripen, providing proven performance and reliability. It’s worth comparing this to earlier studies of a loyal wingman concept Saab studied for the FCAS program back in 2022:
Additionally, it incorporates a low-observable airframe, a digital backbone for advanced connectivity, and cutting-edge artificial intelligence technologies to enhance its operational capabilities. Very likely this uncrewed fighter would serve in an air-to-air capability to support the crewed fighter.
Subsonic Uncrewed Platform (Under 5 Tons)
The subsonic uncrewed platform, weighing under 5 tons, is a key component of Saab's F-series concept and bears a resemblance to typical fifth-generation fighters, incorporating advanced stealth features and aerodynamic design principles. It features small delta wings, which provide several advantages for this type of platform. The delta wing configuration offers high strength and stiffness while maintaining a relatively low weight, which is crucial for an unmanned aircraft of this size. Additionally, the delta wing design allows for greater internal space, potentially housing more fuel, sensors, or payload options.
The small delta wings also contribute to good low-speed performance by generating strong vortices at high angles of attack, which provides lift and enhances maneuverability. Furthermore, the simple shape of the delta wing reduces manufacturing complexity and costs.
The platform incorporates outward-canted vertical fins, a design choice that offers several benefits. These canted fins enhance directional stability, particularly at high angles of attack. They also help to reduce the radar cross-section by deflecting radar signals away from receivers, contributing to the aircraft's overall stealth characteristics. The outward cant may improve control effectiveness by keeping the vertical surfaces in cleaner airflow across a wide range of flight conditions. Additionally, if equipped with a speed brake system similar to larger fighters, the canted fins could allow for more effective deceleration without significantly compromising control surface effectiveness.
This unmanned platform likely serves as a versatile component within the F-series ecosystem, capable of performing various roles such as reconnaissance, electronic warfare, or strike missions in support of the crewed fighter.
Subsonic Uncrewed Platform (Under 1 Ton)
The subsonic uncrewed platform weighing less than one ton appears to be the cost-effective element of the overall system. Its low weight allows for greater flexibility in deployment and operation, making it significantly lighter than other platforms in the F-series.
While not seemingly designed for high-speed flight, its subsonic capabilities contribute to longer endurance and reduced fuel consumption, enhancing its operational efficiency, similar to what has been proven with other uncrewed platforms such as General Atomics’ Reaper. The platform is described as a "low-cost" option, intended to provide an economical solution for various missions. Its small size and affordability suggest that it could be used in larger numbers, potentially enabling swarm tactics or serving as expendable assets in high-risk scenarios.
The versatility of this platform allows it to perform multiple roles, such as reconnaissance, electronic warfare, or acting as a decoy to protect larger, more expensive assets. Its compact design may also facilitate air-launch capability from larger aircraft, including the manned fighter or other drones within the F-series. Given its size and cost profile, this drone might also be designed for one-way missions as a loitering munition or "kamikaze drone."
The modular ecosystem that Saab plans to implement clearly offers several advantages in terms of systems engineering and design:
Shared components between crewed and uncrewed aircraft reduce costs and simplify logistics
Rapid upgrades and adaptations to emerging threats
Flexible force composition allowing various combinations of manned and unmanned platforms
Enhanced interoperability within the system and potentially with NATO allies
All of these advantages have been key to Sweden’s unique capability of highly effective defense systems coming from a smaller country. These capabilities stem from its rich development history and need to defend itself from a former superpower within close vicinity despite its smaller stature and comparatively limited resources.
AI-Driven Decision Support
Saab intends on utilize AI to its fullest advantage in the F System, as evidenced in Saab's investment and 5% stake with European AI company Helsing.
Known as "Project Beyond," the partnership will integrate Helsing's AI software directly into the aircraft's core systems, allowing for more autonomous data processing and workload management. The AI is designed to handle routine tasks, enabling pilots to focus on critical mission aspects that require human judgment.
Saab's AI-driven decision support systems in the upcoming F-series concept represent a significant leap in fighter aircraft capabilities. The Wide Area Display (WAD) in the Gripen E cockpit serves as the primary interface for this AI-assisted system, providing pilots with comprehensive situational awareness. This display integrates information from multiple sensors and systems, presenting it in a user-friendly format that facilitates rapid decision-making. This is similar to how the F-35 works currently with sensor fusion.
The F-series concept is expected to Helsing’s AI to manage multi-platform operations. As seen with my earlier F-35 Sensor fusion article, the F-series AI will utilize will likely process data from a wide array of sensors across multiple platforms, providing a comprehensive battlefield picture. In Saab’s case, this will now go beyond sensor fusion and involve coordinating actions between manned fighters and various unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in the F-series ecosystem. and facilitating coordinated tactics.
Flexible Force Composition
The F-series concept from Saab allows for various combinations of manned and unmanned platforms, enabling the system to adapt effectively to diverse mission requirements. This ability will be crucial, as operational environments can change rapidly and unpredictably.
One of the notable configurations within this concept is the potential for loyal wingman configurations. These unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) are designed to operate alongside manned fighters, enhancing the overall combat effectiveness of the mission. The loyal wingman drones can perform a variety of tasks, including surveillance, electronic warfare, and even strike missions. By taking on high-risk roles, these drones allow human pilots to maintain safer distances from threats, thereby improving survivability. The integration of AI in these systems enables them to coordinate autonomously with crewed aircraft, providing real-time data and tactical support.
In addition to loyal wingman configurations, the F-series concept incorporates swarm tactics with smaller drones. This approach allows for deploying multiple low-cost UAVs that can operate together in a coordinated manner. Swarm tactics leverage the collective capabilities of these smaller drones to overwhelm enemy defenses or gather intelligence over a wide area. The ability to deploy swarms enhances tactical flexibility and provides a significant advantage in contested environments where traditional assets may be vulnerable. When combined with the advanced AI present through the integration of Helsing’s AI, the potential warfare capability of the F-series becomes more apparent.
This ability to automate and control swarms creates a new level of scalable force packages tailored to specific threats. This means that mission planners can configure the mix of manned and unmanned platforms based on the operational context and threat level. For instance, in scenarios requiring heavy air support, a larger number of uncrewed platforms can be deployed alongside fewer crewed fighters. Conversely, in lower-threat environments, a more balanced approach might be taken. This scalability ensures that resources are used efficiently and effectively, maximizing combat power while minimizing risks.
Overall, Saab's F-series concept represents a forward-thinking approach to air combat operations, integrating advanced technologies and flexible strategies that cater to a wide range of mission profiles. The combination of loyal wingman capabilities, swarm tactics, and scalable force packages positions this system as a versatile solution for future aerial warfare challenges.
Concept of Operations
Concept of Operations for the Saab F-series: Implementing Swarm Tactics
The Saab F-series concept is designed to operate within a multi-domain framework, allowing for dynamic and flexible engagement strategies in modern combat scenarios. This derived Concept of Operations (CONOPS) outlines the operational framework, objectives, and procedures for utilizing swarm tactics with unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in conjunction with crewed fighters.
Stakeholders
Military Commanders: Oversee mission planning and execution.
Mission Planners: Develop operational strategies that incorporate swarm tactics.
UAV Operators: Manage the deployment and control of unmanned platforms.
Intelligence Analysts: Provide real-time data and threat assessments.
Maintenance Crews: Ensure readiness and operational capability of all platforms.
Purpose
The primary purpose of implementing swarm tactics within the F-series ecosystem is to enhance combat effectiveness while minimizing risks to human pilots. By deploying multiple UAVs in coordinated formations, the system can overwhelm enemy defenses, gather intelligence, and conduct precision strikes on high-value targets. This approach maximizes operational flexibility and adaptability in rapidly changing combat environments.
Operational Overview
Pre-Mission Planning:
Mission Objectives: Define specific goals for the operation, such as reconnaissance, target acquisition, or direct engagement.
Swarm Configuration: Determine the composition of UAVs to be deployed, including loyal wingmen and smaller drones for swarm tactics.
Data Integration: Collect intelligence data to inform mission planning, including enemy positions, air defense systems, and environmental conditions.
Launch Operations:
Deployment of Manned Fighter: The crewed fighter launches per regulation procedures
Deployment of uncrewed fighters: Depending on the uncrewed fighter, The UAVs launch from either, land-based airstrips, or from the manned fighter itself from a safe distance, utilizing its advanced communication systems to coordinate with the drones.
Autonomous Swarm Coordination: Upon launch, the UAVs autonomously form a cohesive swarm using AI-driven algorithms that allow them to adapt to real-time changes in the battlefield environment.
Operational Execution:
Surveillance and Reconnaissance: The swarm conducts initial reconnaissance over enemy territory, gathering intelligence on troop movements and defensive positions.
Target Engagement: Based on real-time data analysis, the swarm can execute precision strikes against identified targets while minimizing collateral damage.
Decoy Operations: Some drones may serve as decoys, drawing enemy fire away from the crewed fighter or other critical assets.
Post-Mission Analysis:
Data Collection: All data collected during the operation is analyzed to assess mission success and identify areas for improvement.
Debriefing and Assessment: Mission planners review outcomes, evaluate UAV performance, and refine future operational strategies based on lessons learned.
Key Capabilities
Enhanced Tactical Flexibility: The ability to deploy swarms allows for rapid adaptation to evolving battlefield conditions.
Increased Situational Awareness: Swarm tactics provide comprehensive coverage of the operational area, enhancing intelligence-gathering capabilities.
Force Multiplication: Utilizing multiple UAVs in coordinated operations increases overall combat power without significantly increasing risk to human pilots.
Summary
The Saab F-series ecosystem's integration of swarm tactics represents a significant advancement in air combat operations. By leveraging autonomous drone capabilities alongside crewed fighters, this approach enhances mission effectiveness while reducing risks associated with direct engagement. The ability to conduct complex operations through coordinated swarms positions Saab's F-series as a formidable player in future aerial warfare scenarios.
Systems Engineering Requirements
Based on the Concept of Operations, the following Systems Engineering Requirements are derived for the Saab F-series:
Speed: The systems shall achieve a minimum speed of X kph (threshold) and a maximum speed of Y kph (objective). This range is essential for maintaining operational effectiveness in various mission profiles, including air dominance and quick response scenarios.
Radar: The systems shall utilize an advanced radar system capable of long-range detection and tracking. This radar must support multi-target tracking and be integrated with sensor fusion capabilities to enhance situational awareness across air, space, and cyber domains.
Temperature: The systems shall operate at ambient temperatures ranging from A degrees Fahrenheit (B degrees Celsius) (threshold) for a minimum of C minutes and at temperatures up to D degrees Fahrenheit (E degrees Celsius) (objective) for a minimum of F minutes. This requirement ensures operational capability in diverse environmental conditions.
Mission Roles: The systems shall perform long-range strike, air dominance, and self-defense roles. This includes the ability to engage ground targets, maintain air superiority against enemy aircraft, and protect themselves from potential threats during missions.
Stealth Features: The systems shall incorporate advanced stealth features, including radar-absorbing materials and optimized aerodynamics, to minimize their radar cross-section. These features are critical for survivability in contested environments.
Communication Systems: The systems shall have a robust communication architecture that supports secure data links between manned and unmanned platforms. This includes capabilities for real-time information sharing and coordination during operations.
AI Integration: The systems shall integrate artificial intelligence technologies to enhance decision-making processes. This includes AI-driven analytics for mission planning, autonomous operation of unmanned platforms, and real-time data processing from various sensors.
Interoperability: The systems shall ensure interoperability with NATO and allied systems. This requirement includes compatibility with existing communication protocols and data formats to facilitate joint operations.
Scalability: The systems shall support scalable force packages that can be tailored to specific mission requirements. This includes the ability to deploy varying combinations of manned and unmanned platforms based on threat assessments and operational objectives.
These requirements are designed to ensure that the Saab F-series meets the evolving demands of modern aerial warfare while providing flexibility, adaptability, and technological superiority in multi-domain operations.
Implications and Future Considerations
The F-series concept has the potential to reshape air combat doctrine significantly. By integrating AI-driven unmanned platforms with manned fighters, new tactics can emerge. These tactics will leverage swarm intelligence and distributed decision-making in combat scenarios. This evolution in strategy emphasizes adaptability and real-time responsiveness in dynamic environments. Additionally, the development of this advanced system will likely impact Sweden's aerospace sector economically.
The F-series could create high-skilled jobs and foster innovation in robotics and AI. International collaboration may become increasingly important as the system's complexity grows. Partnerships with technologically advanced nations, including non-traditional allies, may be necessary. This shift could enhance Sweden's defense capabilities while raising ethical and legal considerations regarding AI use in warfare. Sweden may need to lead discussions on international norms governing decision-making in combat situations.
The F-series concept will also require advancements in cybersecurity measures to protect against vulnerabilities. Increased network integration necessitates robust defenses against potential cyber threats. Additionally, the integration with space-based assets aligns with Sweden's interest in strategic capabilities. This could enhance satellite technology and space-based sensors for military applications. Environmental considerations will also play a significant role in the F-series development.
The F-series may incorporate green technologies to address military operations' ecological impacts. Finally, its innovative approach could influence the global fighter aircraft market significantly. This development may challenge the dominance of traditional military aviation powerhouses. It could also prompt a reassessment of supply chain resilience within Sweden’s defense industry.
Conclusion
The Saab F-series concept represents a significant evolution in air combat systems, integrating advanced technologies and innovative strategies to enhance operational effectiveness. By combining manned and unmanned platforms, the F-series leverages AI-driven decision support and swarm tactics to create a versatile ecosystem capable of adapting to diverse mission requirements. This modular approach not only streamlines logistics and maintenance but also allows for rapid upgrades in response to emerging threats, positioning Sweden as a leader in next-generation military aviation.
As the F-series develops, it could potentially foster international collaboration and drive advancements in various fields, including robotics, AI, and cybersecurity. The emphasis on interoperability with NATO allies and other technologically advanced nations will enhance Sweden's defense capabilities while addressing ethical and legal considerations surrounding the use of AI in warfare.
The Saab F-series is poised to redefine air combat doctrine through its innovative design and operational capabilities. By effectively utilizing swarm tactics and AI integration, this concept not only enhances combat effectiveness but also ensures that Sweden remains competitive in the global fighter aircraft market. The thoroughness of the F-series potential capabilities underlines Sweden's commitment to maintaining robust defense systems while adapting to the complexities of modern warfare.
References
Saab Prepares Gripen Jet Successor with Stealth Fighters and AI-Powered Drones
These Are Saab’s Concepts for Its Next-Generation Fighter Drones
Sweden Starts Future Fighter Analysis with Concept Study Contracts for Saab and GKN
Saab’s Sixth-Generation Manned and Unmanned Fighter Concepts
Breaking Defense on Saab’s Sensor Suite on German Eurofighters
Flygsystem 2020: A Sixth-Generation Fighter to Replace JAS 39 Gripen