SAAB/Mitsubishi JAS39EJ Gurifon

[ValAstur 1,294]

After having had good experiences during the first joint venture between SAAB and Mitsubishi and the high grade of acception of the japanese Draken (Ryu) by the JASDF-Pilots, the ministry of defense initiated a new joint venture. The swedish Gripen was now to be "nipponized". Pilots of the JASDF went to Sweden to fly the Gripen and push her to the limit, testing her capabilities. The Pilots were amazed how easy it was to fly the Gripen.

 

Back in Japan, the Pilots reported their experiences to their superiors what led to an order of 120 planes, mainly single-seater. The first planes arrived during the first months of 2006, were they had to undergo changes in electronics, adapting them to japanese JASDF-Standards. The 8th Hikotai and the 305th Hikotai were the first squadrons receiving the "Gurifon". This plane was the first wearing the new JAMPAT-Camo in service.

 

8th Hikotai on a patrol

 

A "Gurifon" from the 305th Hikotai climbing

Edited September 12, 2011 by NazGhul

[dsawan 624]

Yesssss!

[+Heberth 159]

sweet!

[Teras 67]

very nice keep it up bro