Defense News

Sweden

Saab has secured a significant contract from the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) for the procurement of extra LITENING 5 target designator pods, alongside maintenance capabilities. The deal, valued at SEK 390 million, underscores the importance of these pods in modern air combat.

LITENING 5 pods play a crucial role in the precise targeting of objectives through laser guidance and tracking. Developed by Rafael Advanced Defense Systems, these pods are utilized on fighter jets to enhance target identification and designation during missions.

The latest version of LITENING 5 offers several key features:

• Improved Sensors: Higher resolution short and medium-wave infrared cameras enhance image quality and target recognition range.
• All-Weather Capability: Effective functionality during day, night, and adverse weather conditions.
• Laser Targeting: Ability to designate targets with a laser for precise strikes using laser-guided bombs.
• Synthetic Aperture Radar: Provides a radar image of the target area with a range of 100 km, aiding pilots in understanding the surroundings.
• Platform Compatibility: Integration with Gripen and Typhoon aircraft.

Saab's provision of maintenance capabilities ensures that the Swedish Armed Forces can maintain these pods domestically. The pods and maintenance capabilities are set to be delivered to FMV in 2026.

This recent contract follows a previous order placed by FMV for LITENING 5 pods for Gripen fighter jets, highlighting the increasing importance of these systems in modern air warfare.