The QRA mission forms part of Brazil’s permanent system for monitoring and protecting national airspace. For the Brazilian Air Force, the introduction of the aircraft into this role represents an expansion of operational capability and air defence capacity.
Under the mission, the aircraft remains on standby around the clock, ready for immediate take-off if required. Saab said the fighter’s availability, rapid response capability and supersonic performance allow it to reach the Central Plateau region within minutes to help protect the Federal Capital and other strategic areas.
Lieutenant Colonel (Pilot) André Navarro de Lima Guimarães, Commander of Anápolis Air Base, said the aircraft has now assumed a central role in protecting national airspace. He stated: “With the commencement of the Brazilian Aerospace Defence Alert service, the F-39 Gripen has officially assumed responsibility for the defence of Brazilian airspace.”
He added that the aircraft is prepared to respond whenever required to fulfil the mission of the Brazilian Air Force. Guimarães said: “The aircraft is ready to take off whenever required, fulfilling the core mission of our Force, which is to guarantee sovereignty over national airspace.”
According to the base commander, the aircraft’s technology also contributes to its operational effectiveness. He said: “Owing to the onboard technology incorporated into this aircraft, it possesses a high deterrent capability and places Brazil at the forefront in terms of air defence capacity.”
Saab said the introduction of the Gripen E into the QRA mission represents an important milestone in the development of the Gripen Programme in Brazil. The current operational capability follows years of development, certification and flight testing.
These activities included air-to-air refuelling operations, integration and testing with the Meteor air-to-air missile, and a recent air-to-ground weapons campaign conducted in Natal. The programme has also involved continued cooperation between Saab, the Brazilian Air Force and Brazilian industry.
The company said this new phase supports the modernisation of Brazil’s fighter aviation and strengthens the country’s defence industrial and technological base. The programme continues to focus on developing national competencies while expanding operational capabilities.
Peter Dölling, Managing Director of Saab Brazil, said the development marks an important step for both the programme and the Brazilian Air Force. He stated: “The commencement of the QRA mission with the F-39E Gripen in Brazil represents a significant milestone for the Gripen Programme and for the operational capability of the Brazilian Air Force.”
He added that Saab will continue supporting capability development in Brazil. Dölling said: “We remain committed to the development of local competencies and the delivery of capabilities that contribute to the sovereignty and security of the country.”
Source: Saab.
