IFC 2025: Saab Presents Future Fighter Aircraft Concepts for Sweden
At the International Fighter Conference (IFC) 2025 in Rome, held from November 4 to 6, Saab revealed several preliminary designs under Sweden’s Future Combat Aircraft Concept (Konceptet Framtidens Stridsflyg, KFS) program. The display introduced both manned and unmanned options envisioned as potential successors to the current Saab Gripen E used by the Swedish Air Force (SwAF).
Overview of the Concept
The exhibition included images of six forward-fuselage models: three manned and three unmanned aircraft. Each concept integrates low-observable stealth characteristics, marking Saab’s recognizable approach to advanced combat airframes. The crewed variants are all single-seat fighters designed for future multi-domain operations.
Industrial Collaboration
In March 2024, the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (Försvarets materielverk, FMV) awarded contracts to Saab and GKN Aerospace to develop foundational studies and technology programs. GKN Aerospace focuses on next-generation powerplant concepts, while Saab leads airframe design and systems integration efforts.
Project Progress and Phases
- Phase 1: Conceptual research and design exploration.
- Phase 2: Technology development and preparation for demonstrator construction.
“Saab showcased its KFS future fighter concepts for Sweden at the IQPC IFC 2025 event in Rome,” reported Janes’ Gareth Jennings.
Outlook
The development of these designs underscores Sweden’s determination to sustain an independent and technologically advanced air combat capability, ensuring operational readiness for the mid-21st century.
Author’s summary: Saab’s KFS project marks Sweden’s strategic push toward a new generation of stealth-enabled fighters, evolving through concept studies and demonstrator development phases.