Sweden exits sixth-generation Tempest project amid uncertainties

Sweden, known for its advanced defense technology, has been developing its own sixth-generation fighter program, although significant challenges remain. The Swedish defense firm Saab has been working on a next-gen manned fighter and accompanying unmanned aerial vehicles, showcasing its visions for future aerial combat capabilities. In recent years, Sweden primarily focused on progressing the Saab F-series and collaborating on innovative concepts, including a joint effort with the United Kingdom on the Tempest project, which began in 2019. However, in 2023, Sweden officially withdrew from the Tempest project, which involves collaboration with the British defense sector and other countries like Italy and Japan. The decision to exit was publicly announced by Stockholm, raising questions about its commitment to other multinational collaborations amidst the ongoing global race for advanced fighter technology. The withdrawal prompted concerns about future collaboration scenarios and the direction of Sweden's sixth-generation program. Design elements of the Saab F-series fighter were heavily inspired by previous models like the Draken and feature advanced stealth and speed capabilities. The uncrewed drones intended to operate alongside this manned aircraft showcase a unique design, resembling subsonic cruise missiles. Sweden’s Air Force, while optimistic about its fighter program, indicates that the future of their domestic projects remains uncertain, particularly given their recent departures from international partnerships. Technological advancements in the military aviation sector are being spearheaded by several countries, including the United States, with its Next-Generation Air Dominance (NGAD) program, and China with its J-36 fighter prototype. Each of these countries is looking to leverage advanced multi-domain capabilities, integrating both manned and unmanned systems into their fleets, further complicating Sweden's efforts in the competitive landscape of next-gen fighters. As it stands, although Sweden presents ambitious plans for a homegrown sixth-gen fighter, the military aviation landscape suggests that long-term viability hinges on overcoming substantial evolutionary and competitive hurdles.