Key Points: Sweden’s Saab 37 Viggen, an often-underappreciated Cold War multi-role fighter, was a technological marvel that left a significant mark on aerospace engineering. It was built during the Cold War when the Soviet Union was a clear threat.
-Entering service in 1971, it pioneered features like a canard-delta wing configuration for exceptional maneuverability and STOL capability, allowing operations from short runways and highways.
Saab 37 Viggen. Image Credit: Creative Commons.
-It also boasted the world’s first airborne digital central computer, automating many pilot tasks.
-Though it never saw combat and had no export sales, the Viggen effectively served Sweden for decades, influencing later European fighter designs and its successor, the JAS 39 Gripen.
Meet the Saab 37 Viggen
The Saab 37 Viggen is an often-underappreciated Cold War fighter. While the world was focused on the arms race between the Americans and the Soviets, Sweeden worked tirelessly to produce arguably one of the best European fighters in the Cold War. Despite its humble reputation, the fighter left an indelible mark on aerospace engineering. The Viggen incorporated many features that would become mainstays in other aircraft worldwide.
History and Development
The development of the Saab 37 Viggen began in the early 1950s, driven by the need to replace the aging Saab 32 Lansen and Saab 35 Draken. Sweden’s military doctrine emphasized self-reliance, necessitating a versatile aircraft capable of performing multiple roles, including ground attack, aerial reconnaissance, and maritime patrol. The Saab design team opted for a radical delta wing configuration combined with canards, making the Viggen the first canard-equipped aircraft to be produced in quantity.
Development was accelerated through the “37-annex,” an agreement that allowed Sweden access to advanced US aeronautical technology. The prototype made its maiden flight on February 8, 1967, and by June 21, 1971, the first AJ 37 Viggen entered service with the Swedish Air Force. Over the years, several variants were developed, including the AJ 37 fighter-bomber, SF 37 photo reconnaissance, SH 37 maritime patrol, and JA 37 all-weather interceptor.
Design and Specifications
The Saab 37 Viggen was designed to maximize versatility and advanced technology. Its canard delta-wing layout provided exceptional maneuverability and lift, especially at low speeds. This revolutionary design then influenced later aircraft such as the Eurofighter Typhoon and Dassault Rafale.
One of the most notable features of the Viggen was its STOL (short takeoff and landing) capability. Thanks to its reverse thrust capabilities and heavy-duty landing gear, it could operate from runways as short as 500 meters, including highways. This feature allowed Sweden to disperse its air force in times of war, making it harder for enemy forces to target airbases.
The Viggen was powered by the RM8B turbofan engine, a modified version of the Pratt & Whitney JT8D used in commercial aircraft. This engine provided the Viggen with a maximum speed of Mach 2.1 at high altitude and 1,200 km/h at low altitude. The aircraft had a service ceiling of 18,000 meters and a range of 1,000 kilometers.
Cold War Service
During its operational life, the Saab 37 Viggen proved to be a formidable aircraft. Although it never saw combat, it was primarily used by the Swedish Air Force, which operated 329 units across various roles. The Viggen’s advanced avionics, including the world’s first airborne digital central computer, automated tasks previously requiring a navigator/copilot. This system was not surpassed until the introduction of the Panavia Tornado in 1981.
Making its first UK Airshow appearance, this amazing Saab 37 Viggen is operated by the Swedish AF Heritage Flight in genuine F7 markings. Seen during its solo routine. c/n 37-098. 2013 Waddington Airshow. 6-7-2013
Saab 37. Image Credit: Creative Commons.
JA 37 by Saab. Image Credit: Creative Commons.
Saab J37. Image Credit: Creative Commons.
The Viggen’s capabilities were showcased during the Cold War, where it played a crucial role in intercepting and deterring Soviet aircraft, including the MiG-25. During one incident, a Viggen aircraft was able to lock onto and track the SR-71 Blackbird, a significant achievement for an aircraft at that time. Despite attempts to export the Viggen to other nations, no one showed any interest, and it remained exclusive to Sweden.
After the Cold War ended, Sweeden began efforts to replace the Viggen with newer, more contemporary fighters. In November 2005, the last Viggens were withdrawn from service, replaced by the newer and more advanced Saab JAS 39 Gripen. The Viggen’s retirement marked the end of an era for the Swedish Air Force, but it played a crucial role in the development of its predecessors, which have gone on to be more commercially successful.
Why the Saab 37 Viggen is Underrated
The Saab 37 Viggen is unfairly forgotten nowadays. In many ways, it was a technological marvel that set new standards in aviation. Its canard-delta wing design, STOL capabilities, and advanced avionics were all groundbreaking when first introduced and made it one of the most sophisticated aircraft of its time. The Viggen’s digital central computer system was decades ahead of its time, paving the way for future aircraft digital systems. Its computers significantly improved the fighter’s overall performance and are a precursor to the systems found in modern fighter jets, including the F-35.
The Viggen’s influence extends beyond its operational life. Its design principles and technological innovations shaped the development of subsequent aircraft. The Eurofighter Typhoon and Dassault Rafale, which feature canard-delta wing configurations, owe part of their design heritage to the Viggen. The aircraft’s STOL capabilities have also inspired its decedent, the JAS 39 Grippen, to incorporate similar features for enhanced operational flexibility.
Overall, Viggen’s role during the Cold War reflected Sweden’s strategic approach to national defense. The country needed an aircraft capable of performing multiple roles and operating from improvised runways, and the fighter provided that and so much more. With the Viggen, Sweden ensured its air force could remain operational despite potential threats. Their focus on self-reliance and innovation continues to be a cornerstone of Swedish defense policy.
About the Author:
Isaac Seitz, a 19FortyFive Defense Columnist, graduated from Patrick Henry College’s Strategic Intelligence and National Security program. He has also studied Russian at Middlebury Language Schools and has worked as an intelligence Analyst in the private sector.
