In November, the Brazilian Air Force (FAB) has achieved a milestone by completing the first firings of the Meteor Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile (BVRAAM) from Gripen E, strengthening Brazil’s air-defence deterrent power. Two missiles have hit their designated targets.
“The BVR-X was a crucial step in expanding the capabilities of the F-39E Gripen. The Gripen and METEOR combination projects Brazil’s combat power and strengthens the deterrence required by our Air Force and, above all, by the country. With advanced sensors, mission systems and electronic warfare capabilities, combined with a missile designed to make evasion virtually impossible, this combination provides a decisive advantage in air combat,” Commander of Natal Air Base and Director of the Technical Exercise, Air Major General Breno Diogenes Gonçalves, said.
The launches have taken place during the BVR-X Technical Exercise, at Natal Air Base in Rio Grande do Norte. With the participation of the First Air Defence Group (1º GDA), the Technical Exercise has brought together four Gripen E fighters in a large-scale operation that, for the first time according to the company, allowed FAB technicians and pilots to handle and employ the Meteor in combat-like conditions.
“The success of this operation reflects the strong partnership between the Brazilian Air Force, Saab and MBDA. Through this close collaboration, we are bringing cutting-edge technology to Brazil. The Gripen and METEOR combination places the country among the few nations worldwide with access to this level of air combat innovation,” Managing Director at Saab Brasil, Peter Dölling, stated.
Preparations for BVR-X Technical Exercise took place with support from Saab, MBDA and several FAB units, including the Operational Applications Institute, which received key knowledge transfer on missile employment.
“METEOR is one of the best examples of what is at the core of MBDA’s DNA: cooperation. It is the result of the joint effort of six European nations, led by MBDA, to create the most sophisticated air-to-air weapon system in operation today. The missile, already certified for use with Gripen E in Sweden, is a game-changer that ensures air superiority for its operator. Brazil now benefiting from this capability is an element of pride for MBDA,” Vice President Export Sales Americas at MBDA, Ricardo Mantovani, explained.
Patrol aircraft have also helped secure the maritime area to ensure safe launch conditions. The targets were two manoeuvrable Mirach 100/5 drones specifically designed for the exercise. According to Saab, they replicated the speed and altitude profile of modern fighter aircraft.