Flygvapnet

Flygvapnet, the Swedish Air Force, is the aerial warfare branch of the Swedish Armed Forces. It is responsible for defending Sweden’s airspace, providing air support to ground and naval forces, and performing international missions, humanitarian tasks, and search-and-rescue operations in cooperation with civil authorities.

Established as Svenska flygvapnet on 1 July 1926, it evolved from the air arms of the Army and Navy. In World War II Sweden remained neutral but expanded air defenses. The jet era began in the 1950s with Saab designs such as the Saab 29 Tunnan, and later the J 35 Draken and J 37 Viggen, a cornerstone of Swedish defense doctrine with its emphasis on rapid reaction and multi-role capability. After the Cold War the force restructured and modernized, replacing older types with newer multi-role aircraft.

Today the Flygvapnet is part of the Swedish Armed Forces and operates from multiple bases across the country. Its frontline combat fleet is the multi-role Saab JAS 39 Gripen, with both the C/D variants and the newer E/F variant in service. Supporting aircraft include trainer platforms such as the Saab 105 (SK 60), transport aircraft like the C-130 Hercules, and helicopters such as the NH90. The Gripen program emphasizes interoperability, cost efficiency, and defensive air superiority. The air force participates in international operations and exercises alongside allied partners and contributes to Sweden’s policy of non-alignment while maintaining active engagement with international security efforts.