The development of the Saab 37 was initiated to provide the Swedish air force with a fully integrated weapons system, based on the concept that had proved itself in the USA. Extensive tests led to the adoption for the fighter-interceptor of an unusual canard wing configuration for the flying components of the weapons system. There were large rear mounted delta wings with forward delta wings with flaps. This configuration accompanied an improved STOL capacity, so that the Saab 37 could be used on short runways about 500 m long. This aerodynamic design, together with the powerful turbofan engine with reverse thrust and anti-skid system considerably reduced the landing run. The pilot sits in a fully air conditioned pressure controlled cockpit behind a bird-strike proof windscreen. The high combat effectiveness of the plane was achieved by incorporating the latest avionics systems, such as a head-up display linked to a flight data computer and a digital fire control package for electronic counter-measures and a radar warning system. The aircraft were delivered to Flygflottilj 7 in Satenas on 21st June 1971.
Twee uitvoeringen mogelijk:
- SAAB SK37 - Swedish Air Force, F7 Wing, Satenas, 1973.
- SAAB SK37 - Swedish Air Force, F15 Wing, Söderhamn, 1976.
Afmetingen;
- Lang; 227 mm.
- Breed; 152 mm.
