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Saab 105

From Alfawiki
Saab AB
IndustryAerospace and defense
FoundedApril 2, 1937; 89 years ago (1937-04-02) in Sweden
Headquarters
Sweden
ProductsAircraft, including the Saab 105 jet trainer
Websitewww.saab.com


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The Saab 105 is a Swedish-designed high-wing, twin-engine jet trainer aircraft, developed by Saab AB during the early 1960s as a private initiative. The type was adopted by the Swedish Air Force, which assigned it the designation SK 60. Entering service in 1967, it replaced the older De Havilland Vampire fleet within the Swedish forces.

In total, the Swedish Air Force acquired 150 units, while an additional 40 were exported to Austria, where they were known as the Saab 105Ö. The Saab 105 served as the platform for Sweden's aerobatic display team, Team 60, and was also flown by two Austrian Air Force demonstration teams: "Karo As" and "Silver Birds".

Development

The inception of the Saab 105 project dates back to 1959 when Saab commenced development on its own accord. The company envisioned the aircraft fulfilling multiple roles across both military and civilian sectors. Militarily, the Saab 105 was designed to operate as a jet trainer, perform reconnaissance missions, execute light ground attack tasks, and even function as a limited interceptor.[1][2] Additionally, Saab proposed a business jet variant featuring a cabin accommodating four to five passengers targeted at corporate clientele.[3]

At that period, the Saab 105 was among the few compact European jets equipped with turbofan engines, an attribute that attracted interest from potential business aviation customers.[4] Despite this, no corporate buyers materialized for the business jet version, prompting Saab to concentrate on military applications instead.[5]

Early commitments from the Swedish Air Force included a conditional agreement to purchase at least one hundred aircraft, contingent upon successful prototype testing.[6][7] In December of 1961, authorization from the Swedish Government enabled the Air Force to support development and construction of a single prototype configured for training purposes.[8] The prototype completed its maiden flight on June 29, 1963.[9] Testing demonstrated favorable handling characteristics and aerobatic capabilities.[10] In March of 1965, one prototype was sent to Turbomeca’s facilities located in Pau, France for additional evaluation of its Turbomeca Aubisque engines.[11]

On March 6, 1965, official approval was granted by the Swedish Government allowing the Air Force to place an initial order for130 Saab105 units. These were categorized into three main variants: SK60A, designed for training and liaison with four seats; SK60B, intended for light attack missions featuring side-by-side seating for two; and SK60C, a dual-purpose model combining attack and reconnaissance roles equipped with various cameras housed in its nose section.[12]

Austria acquired an enhanced variant named Saab105Ö tailored as a lightweight multi-role aircraft capable of training, reconnaissance, interception and ground attack operations. To fulfill Austrian specifications,the105Ö incorporated modifications such as upgraded avionics,a reinforced wing structure enabling higher payloads on underwing hardpoints,and a more powerful Turbomeca Aubisque engine variant optimized for operations from high-altitude airfields.[1][12]

Design

File:Saab J105 - RIAT 2011 (15917126853).jpg
A Saab 105 taxiing at the 2011 Royal International Air Tattoo (RIAT)

Conceived as a compact and cost-effective multirole platform, the Saab 105 has primarily served in a training role. This all-metal aircraft is powered by two jet engines and includes a pressurized cockpit. Its design incorporates a T-tail layout, moderately swept wings, and twin engines positioned beneath the wings on either side of the fuselage.

Equipped with six underwing hardpoints, the Saab 105 can be armed and outfitted for diverse mission profiles. In ground-attack or close air support roles, it can deploy an array of unguided rockets in calibers of 135 mm, 127 mm, and 75 mm, alongside various bombs—including napalm bombs—and air-to-ground missiles. Weaponry options also include gun pods housing either twin 30 mm cannons or 7.62 mm machine guns.

For air defense tasks, the aircraft is capable of carrying AIM-9 Sidewinder air-to-air missiles in addition to its cannon armament. To accommodate up to two additional passengers, smaller ejector seats may be installed for the pilot and co-pilot, with a bench seat located immediately behind for passengers. The Saab 105 is also capable of conducting both general and specialized surveillance or reconnaissance missions, with provisions to install radiation detection systems for atmospheric sampling. Its modular design enables rapid conversion between training and light attack configurations.

Originally, the Saab 105 was powered by two Turbomeca Aubisque low-bypass turbofan engines, produced under license by Volvo Flygmotor as the RM9. These engines were noted for their favorable single-engine performance during critical phases such as takeoff. However, the type has also been fitted with General Electric J85 engines in some instances. During the 1990s, Swedish Air Force units underwent re-engining programs replacing the original powerplants with more modern Williams International FJ44 engines, designated RM15.

Operational history

File:Austrian Air Force Saab 105 Oe arrives for RIAT Fairford 10thJuly2014 arp.jpg
An Austrian Air Force Saab 105Ö arriving for the 2014 Royal International Air Tattoo, England. The livery commemorates four decades of Austrian service

Training of Swedish Air Force cadets on the Saab 105 commenced in July 1967. Three years later, in July 1970, the Austrian Air Force began pilot training using this type. By August 2010, Austria maintained an operational fleet of 22 Saab 105 aircraft, collectively logging approximately 1,500 flight hours annually.

Throughout the 1990s, as the original Turbomeca Aubisque engines approached obsolescence both technically and economically within Sweden's SK 60 fleet, a decision was made to replace them with newer Williams International FJ44 engines—lighter and more economical to operate. A contract to re-engine up to 115 aircraft was signed in November 1993; however, defense budget reductions later curtailed this number. This upgrade was implemented as a cost-effective solution to sustain Sweden's need for a primary trainer platform. The first upgraded aircraft, redesignated SK 60W, was delivered back to service in September 1996.

In June 2007, Saab entered into a long-term support agreement with the Austrian Air Force to provide logistical and technical assistance for their Saab 105Ö fleet for an additional period of 10 to 15 years. Austria officially retired its Saab 105 fleet in December 2020. Meanwhile, in December 2008, Saab secured a contract valued at SKr900 million (approximately $115 million) to extend operational support for Sweden’s trainer fleet through mid-2017. The following year, a SKr130 million ($18.8 million) contract was awarded to deliver cockpit and system modernizations aimed at enhancing interoperability with the Swedish Air Force’s primary combat aircraft, the Saab JAS 39 Gripen.

In October 2009, Saab proposed substituting Sweden’s SK 60 trainers with the Embraer Super Tucano. By March 2014, official statements from the Swedish Air Force confirmed that evaluations were underway regarding replacement candidates for the Saab 105. Major General Micael Bydén indicated that multinational training collaborations were being explored alongside potential replacements such as the Alenia Aermacchi M-346, BAE Systems Hawk, and Pilatus PC-21. Concurrently, Saab and Pilatus Aircraft formalized a memorandum of understanding to jointly offer the PC-21 trainer to Sweden.

In April 2015, Sweden’s Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) issued a request for information (RFI) seeking proposals for a new Military Flying Training System intended to provide comprehensive basic and advanced flight instruction capabilities over an extended period. Requirements included embedded training systems simulating radar and weapons employment along with tactical displays in both cockpit positions modeled after fourth- and fifth-generation fighter aircraft.

Saab renewed its support contract with the Swedish Armed Forces in 2020 to maintain services for the Saab 105 through at least 2025, with an option extending into 2026. Despite this extension, the type was officially withdrawn from service on June 18, 2024.

In May 2021, the Grob G 120TP was selected as Sweden’s new basic trainer aircraft, expected to enter operational status by 2023. Advanced pilot training responsibilities will transition to the Saab Gripen.

Variants

File:SAAB 105 (code H red) at LGTG, 17-09-2005, DSCN8367, Photo by Panagiotis A Pietris.jpg
A Saab 105Ö "H" belonging to the Austrian Air Force, captured at the Archangelos International Air show held at Tanagra AFB-LGTG, Greece
File:Saab 105 Oe trainer (code J) of the Austrian Air Force at RIAT Fairford 13July2017 arp.jpg
A Saab 105Ö "J" operated by the Austrian Air Force during the 2017 RIAT event at RAF Fairford
Saab 105
The initial prototype model, with two units produced.[13]
SK 60A
A two-seat jet trainer and liaison aircraft serving the Swedish Air Force, with a total of 149 units manufactured under this designation.[14]
SK 60B
An armed two-seat attack variant derived from the SK 60A for the Swedish Air Force, featuring an upgraded weapons sight.[14]
SK 60C
Designed as a two-seat ground attack and reconnaissance aircraft for Sweden, this version includes an elongated camera nose. It comprises one newly built prototype and twenty-nine conversions from SK 60A models.[15]
SK 60D
Saab engineered the Saab 105 to function as a four-seat liaison transport by removing the two ejection seats and installing either four airline-style seats without parachute accommodation or four simpler seats permitting parachute use. In the mid-1970s, ten SK 60A units were permanently adapted for transport roles and redesignated as "SK 60D". Several received a light green/dark green/tan "splinter" camouflage scheme similar to that used on the Saab Viggen fighter.[16]
SK 60E
This variant also involved converting SK 60A aircraft into four-seat configurations but incorporated commercial-grade instruments such as an instrument landing system. It was primarily utilized for training Flygvapnet reserve pilots in commercial aviation operations. Eventually, these SK 60E aircraft were reassigned as SK 60D liaison transports.[16]
SK 60W
Initiated in 1993, this modernization program sought to upgrade the SK 60 fleet by installing twin Williams Rolls FJ44 turbofan engines, each producing 8.45 kN (861 kgf/1,900 lbf) thrust along with digital engine controls. These new powerplants offered enhanced thrust while being quieter, cleaner, and simpler to maintain. The first flight of a Williams-powered SK 60—commonly referred to as "SK 60(W)"—occurred in August 1995. Approximately 115 conversions spanning SK 60A, B, and C variants were completed in the late 1990s. No upgrades were made to SK 60D/E models; those aircraft were grounded and repurposed for spare parts.
Saab 105XT
An export demonstrator developed from the second Saab 105 prototype, this improved iteration of the SK 60B was fitted with more powerful General Electric J85 turbojet engines delivering 12.68 kN (2,850 lbf) thrust.[17]
Saab 105D
A proposed business jet adaptation of the Saab 105 was explored but ultimately abandoned due to obsolescence and lack of market interest.[13]
Saab 105G
An updated version of the Saab 105XT featuring advanced avionics including precision navigation and attack systems, stronger J85 engines, and a modified wing design. One unit was converted from the original XT prototype.[18]
Saab 105H
A planned model intended for service with the Swiss Air Force, which was never constructed.[18]
Saab 105Ö
Produced for the Austrian Air Force, this variant based on the Saab 105XT entered service starting July 1970. Forty units were delivered between 1970 and 1972 to replace older platforms such as the de Havilland Vampire and Saab 29 Tunnan.[19]
Saab 105S
In response to a Finnish trainer requirement during the mid-1970s, Saab offered another demonstrator called the "Saab 105S". However, Finland ultimately selected the BAe Hawk instead.[18]

Operators

Sweden Sweden

Previous operators

Sweden Sweden
  • Swedish Air Force: 150 units. All were decommissioned on 19 June 2024, concluding 57 years of active duty.[20]
Austria Austria

Specifications (Saab 105Ö)

File:Saab 105 Sk60A Detail Cockpit.jpg
Cockpit view of a Saab 105 on static exhibit
File:FlR3- DSC06825 (48882095962).jpg
Inside the cockpit of a Saab 105
File:Saab 105 Sk60A Detail Heck.jpg
The T-tail configuration of a Saab 105

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See also

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Citations

  1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 "Saab105 in Austrian Air Force." Dutch Aviation Support, retrieved31 March2016.
  2. ↑ "Saab 105: Twin-Jet Trainer and Light Attack Aircraft." Flight International, 21 May 1964. p. 5.
  3. ↑ Phillips, Phillips and Phillips, p. 57.
  4. ↑ Fricker, John. "Building Boom in Foreign Bizjets." Flying Magazine, June 1964. Vol. 74, No. 6. ISSN 0015-4806. pp. 39, 100–3.
  5. ↑ Eliasson 2010, p. 80.
  6. ↑ Phillips, Phillips and Phillips, p. 56.
  7. ↑ "Sweden adopts Saab." Flight International, 1 January 2002.
  8. ↑ "World News: Swedish Air Force Adopts the Saab 105." Flight International, 4 January 1962.
  9. ↑ Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; no text was provided for refs named chant 457
  10. ↑ Indian Aviation, Volumes 38–39. 1965, p. 153.
  11. ↑ "Saab 105 in France." Flight International,15 April 1965. p.612.
  12. ↑ 12.0 12.1 Chant2014,p.457.
  13. ↑ 13.0 13.1 Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; no text was provided for refs named Hewson p42
  14. ↑ 14.0 14.1 Hewson 1995, p. 43.
  15. ↑ Hewson 1995, p. 44.
  16. ↑ 16.0 16.1 Hewson 1995, p. 45.
  17. ↑ Hewson 1995, pp. 45–46.
  18. ↑ 18.0 18.1 18.2 Hewson 1995, p. 47.
  19. ↑ Hewson 1995, p. 46.
  20. ↑ 20.0 20.1 Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; no text was provided for refs named :0
  21. ↑ Lua error in Module:Citation/CS1/Configuration at line 2123: attempt to index field '?' (a nil value).

Bibliography

  • Allport, Dave. "Austria Withdraws Saab 105s". Air International, February 2021, Vol. 100, No. 2. p. 11. Template:ISSN
  • Chant, Christopher. Compendium of Armaments and Military Hardware. London: Routledge, 2014. ISBN 1-134-64668-2.
  • Eliasson, Gunnar. Advanced Public Procurement as Industrial Strategy: The Aircraft Sector as a Technical University. Springer Science & Business Media, 2010. ISBN 1-4419-5849-5.
  • Hewson, Robert. "Saab 105/Sk60 Variant Overview". World Air Power Journal, Volume 23 Winter 1995. London:Aerospace Publishing. ISBN 1-874023-64-6. ISSN 0959-7050. pp. 40–49.
  • Phillips, Almarin and A. Paul Phillips, Thomas R. Phillips. Business Jets: Technology and Market Dynamics in the Corporate Jet Aircraft Industry. Springer Science & Business Media, 2012. ISBN 94-011-0812-9.
  • Michell, Simon (ed.) Jane's Civil and Military Upgrades 1994–95. Coulsdon, UK: Jane's Information Group, 1994. ISBN 0-7106-1208-7.
  • Rendall, David. Jane's Aircraft Identification Guide. Harper Collins, Glasgow, 1996. ISBN 0-00-470980-2

External links

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