The first time I saw this plane was in the movie “Firebirds.” I thought it was all sci-fi because the plane looked so futuristic for its time. However, while browsing a magazine about military aircraft, I realized that the plane in “Firebirds” was real. It’s the Saab 35 Draken. I then wondered why it wasn’t more popular. It looked great and was very advanced for its time.
Anyway, the Draken was a supersonic fighter. It featured a delta wing design. This design marked an important advancement in aviation technology during the Cold War. The Saab 35 Draken was developed by Sweden. It played a key role in strengthening the nation’s air defense capabilities. The aircraft showcased innovative engineering.
In the early 1950s, Sweden recognized the need to modernize its air force. It aimed to protect its neutrality during a time of global tension. The goal was to create a supersonic fighter capable of intercepting high-speed threats at various altitudes. The Saab 35 Draken was conceived to meet this challenge. Engineers at Saab focused on combining speed, agility, and advanced aerodynamics. The delta wing design was selected to achieve exceptional performance in both supersonic and subsonic flight regimes.
The development of the Draken began in 1955. The first prototype took to the skies on October 25, 1955. The successful test flights demonstrated the potential of the supersonic fighter. The Swedish Air Force officially introduced the Draken into service in 1960. This event marked a new era in Sweden’s aerial defense.
The delta wing design of the Draken was one of its most distinctive and innovative features. This design consisted of a double-delta configuration, which included a sharp inner wing angle and a shallower outer wing angle. The delta wing design allowed the supersonic fighter to achieve high speeds while maintaining stability and control.
The benefits of the delta wing design were numerous. It provided excellent lift at low speeds, which improved takeoff and landing performance. At high speeds, the delta wings reduced aerodynamic drag. This allowed the Saab 35 Draken to reach velocities up to Mach 2. The design also contributed to the aircraft’s ability to perform rapid climbs. It could execute tight turns. These are essential qualities for an interceptor.
Specifications and Performance Advantages
The Saab 35 Draken was powered by a Svenska Flygmotor RM6B/C turbojet engine. This engine was a Swedish-built version of the British Rolls-Royce Avon engine. This powerful engine enabled the supersonic fighter to reach a maximum speed of Mach 2, approximately 1,320 miles per hour. The aircraft had a service ceiling of 65,000 feet, allowing it to engage targets at high altitudes.
Key specifications of the Saab 35 Draken included:
- Length: 51 feet
- Wingspan: 30 feet
- Wing Area: 500 square feet
- Armament: Two 30mm Aden cannons, air-to-air missiles, rockets, and bombs
The versatility of the Saab 35 Draken’s armaments made it suitable for various mission types. These missions included interception, air superiority, and ground attack. The supersonic fighter’s ability to carry different weapon configurations enhanced its operational effectiveness.
The delta wing design contributed to several performance advantages. It improved the aircraft’s maneuverability, allowing pilots to perform complex aerial tactics. The design also enabled the Saab 35 Draken to operate from shorter runways and dispersed airfields, aligning with Sweden’s defensive strategies. The combination of speed, agility, and firepower made the supersonic fighter a formidable asset.
Throughout its service life, the Saab 35 Draken underwent several upgrades to enhance its performance and extend its operational lifespan. Variants of the supersonic fighter included:
- J 35A: The initial production model with basic interception capabilities.
- J 35B: Featured improved radar and avionics systems.
- J 35D: Upgraded engine and increased fuel capacity for longer range.
- S 35E: A reconnaissance version equipped with cameras and sensors.
- J 35F: The final Swedish fighter version with advanced missiles and electronic countermeasures.
These upgrades ensured that the Saab 35 Draken remained competitive with newer aircraft and could meet evolving defense needs.
After entering service in 1960, the Saab 35 Draken became the backbone of Sweden’s air defense. The supersonic fighter participated in numerous training exercises and patrol missions to safeguard Swedish airspace. Its reliability and performance earned it recognition beyond Sweden’s borders.
Many of the design elements of the JAS39 Gripen were taken from the Draken. So, if you’ve watched the film “Firebirds” and are still wondering what fighter jet was featured in the movie, I hope this answers your question. It was the Saab 35 Draken.
First love never dies. I fell in love with airplanes and aviation when I was a kid. My dream was to become a pilot, but destiny led me to another path: to be an aviation digital media content creator and a small business owner. My passion for aviation inspires me to bring you quality content through my website and social accounts. Aviation is indeed in my blood and blog!
