Saab Gripen F makes first flight with Brazilian pilot aboard

On August 28, 2026, Saab conducted the inaugural flight of its Gripen F aircraft, marking a significant milestone in the program’s development. This two-seat variant was flown for the very first time during this test event. Captain Paulo Henrique Silva, a Brazilian pilot, piloted the Gripen F throughout the initial airborne phase. The flight represents a crucial step towards integrating the aircraft into the Brazilian Air Force's fleet. Following the successful flight, further testing and evaluation are planned to assess the performance capabilities of the Gripen F.