27 May 2024, Anápolis – In a significant milestone for the Brazilian Air Force (FAB), pilots from the 1° Grupo de Defesa Aérea (1° GDA) have successfully conducted their first Beyond Visual Range (BVR) combat training using the newly acquired F-39E Gripen fighter jets. This historic event marks a crucial step in the operational readiness and tactical capabilities of Brazil’s advanced air defence fleet.
The training exercise took place on 27 May 2024, at the Anápolis Air Base, where the 1° GDA is stationed. The F-39E Gripen, known for its state-of-the-art avionics and superior combat performance, demonstrated its prowess in long-range engagement scenarios. This training involved simulated air-to-air combat scenarios, where pilots utilised the jet’s advanced radar and missile systems to detect, track, and engage targets beyond visual sight.
Lieutenant Colonel Ramon FÓRNEAS, commander of the 1° GDA, expressed his satisfaction with the results of the training. “The F-39E Gripen’s performance in BVR combat training has exceeded our expectations. Our pilots have quickly adapted to the new systems, and the aircraft’s capabilities significantly enhance our strategic defence operations.”
The F-39E Gripen, developed by the Swedish aerospace company Saab, has been tailored to meet the specific requirements of the FAB. This includes integration with Brazilian-built systems and compliance with the country’s defence protocols. The Gripen E’s AESA radar, combined with its advanced electronic warfare systems, provides unparalleled situational awareness and combat effectiveness in BVR engagements.
Brazil’s acquisition of the F-39E Gripen is part of a broader strategy to modernise its air force and bolster its defence capabilities. The aircraft’s low operational costs and high-performance standards make it an ideal choice for maintaining air superiority in the region.
The successful completion of this BVR training exercise signifies a major advancement for the FAB, showcasing its readiness to employ cutting-edge technology in safeguarding Brazilian airspace. As Brazil continues to integrate the F-39E into its fleet, further training and operational exercises are expected, ensuring that the country’s air defence remains robust and capable of meeting future challenges.
The FAB’s commitment to enhancing its aerial combat capabilities through the adoption of advanced technologies like the F-39E Gripen underscores Brazil’s strategic focus on national security and defence. This training marks the beginning of a new era in Brazilian air defence, promising greater security and operational efficiency in the years to come.
