Saab and Airbus co-operate on unmanned fighter technology

Saab and Airbus are in talks to collaborate on unmanned combat aircraft, designed to complement existing crewed fighter jets such as the Eurofighter Typhoon and Saab Gripe E. The discussions, confirmed by Saab CEO Michael Johansson and Airbus CEO Guillaume Fury at a European aerospace forum in Brussels, reflect growing interest in autonomous and AI-enabled aircraft within Europe’s defense industry. The project aims to explore unmanned systems that could operate alongside current-generation fighter jets, enhancing operational flexibility and capabilities. Both CEOs stressed that these discussions are separate from the troubled FCAS fighter program, a joint project between France, Germany, and Spain that has faced delays, disagreements over industrial leadership, and strategic challenges. Saab and Airbus already have an established working relationship, particularly through Saab’s Arexis electronic warfare system, which equips German Eurofighters. The unmanned aircraft talks could potentially expand this cooperation into new areas of air combat, including drones and autonomous systems, offering a pathway for Europe to maintain technological leadership even if larger projects like FCAS face obstacles. Johansson emphasized that while Saab is also talking to other potential partners, no decisions have yet been made, and Airbus noted the discussions are currently exploratory. The initiative demonstrates Europe’s increasing focus on AI-driven and unmanned solutions in defense, highlighting a broader shift toward integrating autonomous technology into traditional airpower.