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Saab Aircraft Leasing

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Saab AB
Company typePublic (Aktiebolag)
IndustryAerospace, Defence
PredecessorASJA, NOHAB aero engine division
Founded1937; 89 years ago (1937)
FounderAB Bofors (origin)
Headquarters
Stockholm
,
Sweden
Area served
Worldwide
ProductsFighter aircraft, military systems, aerospace products
OwnerInvestor AB (30.16% equity, 39.69% voting rights as of 2020)
Websitewww.saab.com

Overview

Saab AB (pronounced Audio file "GT SAAB Svenska.ogg" not found, translating to The Swedish Aeroplane Corporation, commonly abbreviated as SAAB), together with its subsidiaries known as the Saab Group (Swedish: Saabgruppen), is a Swedish aerospace and defence enterprise headquartered in Stockholm. Its design and manufacturing activities are primarily centered in Linköping.

The company originated in 1937 when AB Bofors transformed the aero engine division of NOHAB, established in 1930 and based in Trollhättan, into a dedicated aircraft manufacturer. In 1940, it merged with the aircraft producer ASJA, founded in 1931 and located in Linköping. ASJA, possessing its own design bureau, is regarded as the foundational predecessor to present-day Saab AB.[1] This merger created the SAAB concern, with the Trollhättan facility designated as SAAB/T and the Linköping plant (formerly ASJA) known as SAAB/L, serving as the design headquarters.[1]

Starting in 1947, Saab expanded into automobile manufacturing. The car division was separated in 1990 to form Saab Automobile, initially a joint venture with General Motors. GM assumed full ownership by 2000. From 1968, Saab merged with commercial vehicle manufacturer Scania-Vabis under the name Saab-Scania. This partnership ended in 1995 when new owners, Investor AB, executed a demerger.[lower-alpha 1]

Svenska Aeroplan Aktiebolaget (SAAB)

File:SAAB logotyp 1939.svg
SAAB's emblem from 1939, illustrating a licensed-built Junkers Ju 86, the inaugural aircraft produced by the firm.

Established in 1937 by AB Bofors, Saab originated as Svenska Aeroplan Aktiebolaget (abbreviated SAAB; Template:Literally), headquartered in Trollhättan. This formation involved restructuring the aircraft engine division of the engineering firm NOHAB (Nohab Flygmotorfabrik AB, Template:Literally), which Bofors had acquired two years earlier in 1935. Bofors, having collaborated with the Swedish Air Force (SAF) on aviation weaponry and munitions development, aimed to establish a dedicated aircraft manufacturing subsidiary to secure exclusive rights over future SAF aircraft contracts—a strategy endorsed by the SAF.[1] However, a rival company with similar ambitions had been founded earlier in 1931 named ASJA (AB Svenska Järnvägsverkstädernas Aeroplanavdelning, Template:Literally) based in Linköping. ASJA was the successor of Svenska Aero (SA), led by Sven Blomberg, who was the chief designer of the Svenska Aero Jaktfalken fighter. ASJA had recruited Blomberg from Svenska Aero in 1930 and subsequently acquired the company and its design portfolio in 1932, rapidly becoming Sweden's foremost aircraft manufacturer at that time.[1]

In 1936, Bofors initiated negotiations with ASJA to explore forming a stock-sharing consortium under a unified parent company. This agreement was finalized in 1937 with SAF backing, creating AB Förenade Flygverkstäder (AFF) as the parent entity. To minimize competition, Bofors also acquired the smaller rival E. Sparmanns aircraft workshop, which was then developing a contemporary fighter for SAF known as Sparmann E4 [sv].[1]

Despite this consortium arrangement, SAAB's Trollhättan facility (formerly Nohab Flygmotorfabrik AB) continued competing against ASJA for contracts, and collaborative efforts did not materialize effectively. While SAAB Trollhättan secured some orders such as licensed production of the Junkers Ju 86 bomber for SAF (designated B 3) in 1938, ASJA dominated most SAF contracts including licensed manufacturing of the Hawker Hart (B 4) and Northrop Model 8 (B 5).[1] Following ASJA's design bureau success with winning proposals that evolved into the Saab 17 (ASJA L-10) and Saab 18 (ASJA L-11), outperforming AFF/SAAB’s F.1 and G.1 projects, AFF was dissolved in March 1939. Consequently, ASJA was restructured into the SAAB-concern, with Trollhättan’s factory becoming SAAB/T and Linköping’s plant (formerly ASJA) designated SAAB/L, which also became the corporate headquarters.[1]

File:SAAB Linköping, L-18B (Saab 18) (cropped).jpg
Production of the SAAB 18B (internal designation L-18B) at Saab’s Linköping facility toward the end of World War II.

The initial impetus for development stemmed from challenges faced by the Swedish government in procuring quality military aircraft at the outset of the Second World War. A critical factor was Sweden's failure to receive a substantial number of Seversky P-35 fighters from the United States. This shortfall prompted a strategic focus on domestic production and innovation of military aircraft, an approach Saab embraced and has maintained since. The company's first indigenous design was the SAAB 17 light dive bomber, which had its maiden flight on May 18, 1940. It was soon followed by the SAAB 18 schnellbomber (first flown June 19, 1942) and the single-seat fighter SAAB 21 (first flight July 30, 1943). Notably, the SAAB 21 was pioneering in operational use of a modern ejection seat employing gunpowder propulsion rather than compressed air typical of contemporary German designs.

File:SAAB Logotyp 1943.svg
SAAB's logo circa 1943.

Initially focused on aviation manufacturing, Saab explored diversification opportunities. Prior to World War II, most automobiles in Sweden were imports from the United States. With American manufacturers shifting production toward tanks during wartime and prioritizing domestic demand post-war, Europe—including Sweden—experienced acute shortages of passenger vehicles, resulting in prolonged waiting periods for buyers. In response, Saab launched its automobile division based in Trollhättan during the late 1940s. The first model produced was the Saab 92, with full-scale manufacturing commencing on December 12, 1949; this production was based on the prototype known as Ursaab.[4] By approximately 1950, Saab transitioned from using uppercase "SAAB" branding to the stylized "Saab".[5]

In addition to automotive expansion, during the late 1950s Saab entered the computing sector through its subsidiary Datasaab.[6] This venture partly arose from requirements to develop compact computers suitable for installation as navigational aids aboard aircraft. Throughout the 1960s, several computer models were designed and marketed across Europe for applications such as banking systems. The CK 37 flight computer developed by Datasaab was integrated into the Viggen fighter introduced in 1971. In 1975, this computer division was sold to Sperry UNIVAC, although Saab retained responsibility for ongoing flight computer development.

Saab AB

File:SAAB Logotyp 1965.svg
Saab's emblem from the late 1950s.

In May 1965, the company adopted the name Saab AB to better represent the diversity of its operations.

Three years later, in 1968, Saab AB merged with Scania-Vabis, a Swedish manufacturer specializing in trucks, buses, and heavy-duty diesel engines, resulting in the formation of Saab-Scania AB.

General Motors initially acquired a 51% stake in Saab Automobile, the car division, in 1990 and completed full ownership ten years afterward.

In 1991, Investor AB executed a leveraged buyout of Saab-Scania AB, purchasing all outstanding shares for roughly SEK 21 billion. Subsequently, Saab-Scania became a wholly owned subsidiary of Investor AB and was removed from the stock exchange.

By 1995, Investor AB split Saab-Scania into two separate entities: Scania AB and Saab AB. This demerger aimed to facilitate broader ownership in both companies over time. With half of Saab Automobile sold to General Motors, the original rationale for merging with Scania-Vabis in 1968 had largely vanished.

That same year, Saab Military Aircraft partnered with British Aerospace (now BAE Systems) to establish Saab-BAe Gripen AB, a joint venture focused on manufacturing, marketing, and supporting the Gripen fighter internationally. This collaboration expanded in 2001 with the creation of Gripen International for similar purposes. Between 1998 and 2005, British Aerospace/BAE held the largest stake in Saab after acquiring a 35% share from Investor AB. In January 2005, BAE Systems reduced its holding to 20%, while Investor AB retained a 20% stake.

On 16 November 1999, Saab declared its plan to acquire Celsius AB, completing the transaction by early March 2000.

In September 2000, United Defense Industries (UDI) purchased Bofors Weapon Systems from Saab—covering autocannon and tube artillery segments—while Saab maintained control over missile-related operations.

By December 2005, Saab had become a key partner in the Dassault nEUROn project.

In October 2008, Saab announced plans to merge its activities with Simrad Optronics to form a new entity focused on advanced optronics products. The headquarters for this unit was set to be in Norway; however, further details remained pending.

The company underwent a restructuring in 2010 that consolidated fifteen business units into five primary divisions: Aeronautics; Dynamics; Electronic Defence Systems; Security and Defence Solutions; and Support and Services. This reorganization aimed to enhance market focus and customer orientation.

In March 2010, BAE Systems sold half of its remaining 20% stake to Investor AB, which thereby became the largest shareholder. By June 2011, BAE Systems divested its remaining shares, ending its sixteen-year involvement with Saab.

As of August 2020, Investor AB held a 30.16% equity interest in Saab and controlled 39.69% of voting rights, making it the principal owner.

In August 2023, Saab completed the acquisition of Blue Bear Research Systems, a Bedford-based company specializing in AI-driven autonomous swarm technologies.

The following month, September 2023, saw Saab acquire CrowdAI, an artificial intelligence and machine learning development firm headquartered in San Francisco.

Aircraft manufacturing

Saab's primary emphasis in aircraft manufacturing lies in the development of fighter aircraft. The company has been engaged in aircraft production since the 1930s. Its jet-powered predecessors leading up to the JAS 39 Gripen include the Tunnan, Lansen, Draken, and Viggen. The final civilian aircraft produced by Saab were the Saab 340 and Saab 2000, both categorized as medium-range turboprop airliners. The design and assembly of these airplanes take place in Linköping.

In May 2019, Saab revealed its intention to establish a new manufacturing facility in the Discovery Park District Aerospace area, located on the western side of the Purdue University campus. This plant will be responsible for the final assembly of the T-X advanced jet trainer, a collaborative development between Boeing and Saab for the United States Air Force.

Aeronautics

File:Swedish JAS-39 Gripen landing.jpg
JAS 39 Gripen
File:AT4-johnson2004-02-03.jpg
Saab AT4 portable anti-tank weapon
File:Saab340SwedishAirforce.JPG
Saab 340 equipped with Erieye radar

The Aeronautics division provides airborne platforms, associated subsystems, Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS), and aerostructures. This sector is accountable for producing airframe components for the JAS 39 Gripen, as well as entire sections for manufacturers such as Airbus, Boeing, and NH90. It also manages system development for both the JAS 39 Gripen and the Skeldar VTOL UAV. Additionally, Aeronautics participates as a partner in the European collaborative UAV project Dassault nEUROn, where Saab is tasked with avionics development alongside overall architecture and design responsibilities. The marketing and servicing of the JAS 39 Gripen fighter jet also fall under this business area.

Dynamics

The Dynamics division specializes in ground combat weaponry, missile systems, torpedoes, sensor technologies, unmanned underwater vehicles like Sabertooth, and signature management solutions. It supplies remotely operated vehicles designed for military operations as well as civilian security purposes.

Among its short-range armaments are products such as the Carl Gustaf, AT4/AT4 CS, STRIX, and NLAW. The missile portfolio includes systems like the RBS 70, RBS 23, and RBS 15.

Surveillance

The Surveillance division delivers airborne monitoring solutions, including platforms such as GlobalEye and the Saab 2000 equipped with Erieye AEW&C and fighter radar systems. Its offerings also encompass ground-based and maritime radar technologies, notably the Giraffe radar series, alongside electronic warfare capabilities like IDAS and ESTL. Additionally, the division provides integrated combat systems and C4I solutions.

Industrial Products and Services

Formed on 1 January 2015, Industrial Products and Services encompasses various business units: Combitech, Avionics Systems, Aerostructures, Traffic Management, Vricon, as well as initiatives focused on developing product ideas beyond Saab’s central operations.

This segment distinguishes itself from Saab’s other divisions by targeting business-to-business (B2B) clients or operating independently of Saab’s primary end-users. While most of Saab’s other sectors primarily serve public authorities, Industrial Products and Services caters to different customer demographics, necessitating unique management approaches and strategic priorities. The restructured organization enhances prospects for sustainable growth by implementing tailored growth strategies for each individual business unit.

Support and Services

Support and Services specializes in maintenance operations, integrated support frameworks, field facility management, logistics solutions, and regional aircraft upkeep.

Saab Aircraft Leasing focuses on leasing and reselling Saab aircraft to airline customers, having completed 30 transactions during 2010.

Saab Barracuda LLC

Located in Lillington, North Carolina, Saab Barracuda LLC produces signature management products and delivers tailored services. A key offering is the Ultra Lightweight Camouflage Net System (ULCANS), which provides multi-spectral concealment against detection methods spanning visual, near-infrared, thermal infrared, and broadband radar spectrums. ULCANS is deployed by the U.S. Army and other DoD entities, available in both woodland and desert variants.

Saab Barracuda stands as one of only two certified suppliers of ULCANS in North America and currently holds a competed contract valued at US$1.76 billion alongside GMA Cover Corp.

Saab Kockums

The submarine division of the company operates out of the Kockums shipyard.[7]

Military aircraft

  • Saab 17 (bomber and dive-bomber produced between 1941 and 1944, with a total of 323 units constructed)
  • Saab 18 (twin-engine bomber and reconnaissance platform built from 1944 to 1948, totaling 245 aircraft)
  • Saab 21 (twin-boom push-prop fighter and attack plane manufactured from 1945 to 1949, with 298 produced)
  • Saab 21R (jet-powered variant of the Saab 21 produced between 1950 and 1952, with 64 units)
  • Saab 29 Tunnan (the first jet fighter designed specifically for its role, manufactured from 1950 to 1956, totaling 661 aircraft)
  • Saab 32 Lansen (attack aircraft produced between 1953 and 1959, with a total of 450 built)
  • Saab 35 Draken (fighter aircraft manufactured from 1955 until 1974, with 644 constructed)
  • Saab 37 Viggen (fighter, attack, and reconnaissance aircraft built from 1970 to 1990, with a total of 329 units)
  • Saab JAS 39 Gripen (multirole fighter introduced in 1996, with production reaching 306 by 2020)
  • Saab 105 (twin-engine trainer produced from 1963 through 1972, totaling 192 aircraft)
  • Saab 340 AEW&C (airborne early warning and control aircraft manufactured between 1994 and 1999, with only 12 built)
  • Boeing-Saab T-7 Red Hawk (advanced pilot training aircraft developed jointly by Boeing and Saab Group; two demonstrators completed, with the USAF planning to acquire 351 trainers)

Cancelled military aircraft projects

  • Saab 36 (bomber concept from the 1950s that never entered production)
  • Saab 38 (attack/trainer project from the 1970s that was not built)

Civilian aircraft

File:Saab Safir 91B.jpg
The Saab Safir 91B trainer shortly after takeoff at Hahnweide airfield
  • Saab 90 Scandia (short- to medium-range airliner seating 32 passengers; produced from 1946 to 1954 with only 18 units made)
  • Saab 91 Safir (single-engine trainer manufactured between 1946 and 1966, totaling 323 aircraft)
  • MFI-15 Safari/MFI-17 Supporter (single-engine trainer produced during the early to late-1970s era, approximately 250 built)
  • Saab 340 (short-haul turboprop airliner accommodating between 30 and 35 passengers; manufactured from 1983 to1999 with a total of459 produced)
  • Saab 2000 (high-speed turboprop airliner seating between50 and58 passengers; manufactured between1992 and1999, totaling63 units)

Experimental aircraft

Unmanned Aerial Vehicles

Missile Systems

Naval Combat Management Systems

Naval Integrated Communication Systems

Naval Radar Equipment

Surface Radar Systems

Boats

Gallery

See also

Notes

  1. ↑ Although separated, both Saab and Scania retain rights to use the griffin emblem,[2] which is derived from the coat of arms of Sweden’s Scania region.[3]

References

  1. ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 1.3 1.4 1.5 1.6 Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; no text was provided for refs named Svfpl Andersson
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  3. ↑ ...
  4. ↑ Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; no text was provided for refs named Gunston
  5. ↑ Cite error: Invalid <ref> tag; no text was provided for refs named autogenerated1
  6. ↑ As of July 2, Saab finalized a complete acquisition of Kockums, the original designer of Australia’s Collins class submarines, now known as Saab Kockums, with intellectual property rights for the Collins class submarines held by the Swedish government.
  7. ↑ Saab is conducting research on a next-generation stealth fighter intended as a future Gripen replacement through a small-scale program in collaboration with Linköping University. The design resembles the Gripen but features a V-tail.
  8. ↑ The Generic Future Fighter concept developed by Linköping University’s Fluid and Mechatronic Systems division presents a Gripen-like fuselage equipped with canards and canted tails.
  9. ↑ A demonstrator aircraft for the Generic Future Fighter has been flown as part of ongoing research efforts.

Bibliography

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External links

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