Unique oxygen and anti-g system tests put Gripen F to the test in extreme conditionsUnique oxygen and anti-g system tests put Gripen F to the test in extreme conditions

The development of the Gripen F is in full swing both in Sweden and in Brazil. At Saab in Linköping the aircraft’s systems are being tested to their limits in the Life Support rig, installed in a high altitude chamber. All in order to deliver the safest possible aircraft to the customer.

At this stage of the two-seat fighter’s development, the oxygen and anti-g systems are being tested. The goal is to identify potential defects before the next flight tests and to verify the reliable and safe operation of the system, even in the most demanding situations. The tests ensure that the system works in perfect condition to provide, among other things, breathable air and anti-gravity protection for the pilot.

The tests are conducted in a test system called a Life Support rig, in which manikins connected to breathing simulators and other systems are used. The oxygen and anti-g-g system used are the same as in the real aircraft.

The Life Support rig is similar to a real aircraft and as close as you can get without full integration. In practice, Saab is already “flying” the Gripen F, but still without the fighter.

“Once again I am impressed with our talented engineers and the fantastic collaboration with our Brazilian partners, the Gripen F is very important for the program and for our customer,” says Johan Segertoft, Head of Gripen Design.

The Life Support rig where testing takes place was opened in 2018 to test the Gripen E. With the development of the Gripen E nearing completion, this rig was then modified and developed to also enable the current tests with the Gripen F.

This is the first time the Life Support rig has been installed in Saab’s own altitude chamber, creating a unique configuration that allows engineers to test the system at a simulated high altitude with extremely low pressure.

“In some cases, we test situations that are beyond what is actually physically possible. All to expose and push the system to the limit. We force the system with a simulated flight envelope that we would otherwise never encounter in reality, such as a total loss of cabin pressure at a very high altitude,” says Mattias Larsson, test engineer and rig manager.

(FILES) A Swedish manufacturer Saab’s Gripen F fighter jet flies on October 11, 2012 during a flight demonstration of the Swiss Air Force over Axalp in the Bernese Oberland. Brazil decided on December 18, 2013 to acquire 36 Gripen NG fighter jets for their Air Force. AFP PHOTO / FABRICE COFFRINI

In addition to testing the oxygen and anti-gassing system, development of the Gripen F is progressing according to plan. Embraer, Akaer and Saab are participating in the extensive airframe development work. Delivery of the Gripen F to the Brazilian customer is planned for 2025.

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