Sweden Buys Mk82 Bombs From Rheinmetall to Equip Gripen Aircraft
Sweden has contracted Rheinmetall to acquire Mk82 bombs for its Gripen aircraft, aiming to enhance the Swedish Air Force’s ground target capabilities.
The order, valued at more than 100 million Swedish kronor ($9 million), is scheduled for delivery in the second quarter of this year.
The Mk82 is compatible with the Jas 39 Gripen C/D and E aircraft.
The acquisition “is another step in strengthening the operational capabilities of Swedish fighter aircraft as part of NATO,” said Martin Anderberg, head of combat aircraft systems at the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration.
Mk82 Bomb
The Mk82 and its variants are 500-pound (227 kilograms) class low-drag bombs used by aircraft.
The bomb can be deployed in both free-fall and precision-guided modes.
It features a streamlined steel casing and is compatible with various guidance kits, including Paveway, Enhanced Paveway, Joint Direct Attack Munition, Laser Joint Direct Attack Munition, and Armement Air-Sol Modulaire.
In 2020, France selected the Mk82-enhanced performance for its Mirage 2000 and Rafale fighter jets, while Germany acquired it for its Tornado and Eurofighter fleets.
The combined orders from these two countries include over 2,000 Mk82 bomb bodies, valued at more than 35 million euros ($36.3 million).
Gripen E Aircraft
Designed by Swedish firm Saab, the Gripen aircraft is capable of air-to-air, air-to-surface, and reconnaissance missions.
The Gripen E is equipped with an integrated electronic warfare system, offering both offensive and defensive capabilities.
It performs real-time signal analysis, countermeasure management, and electronic intelligence collection.
Boosting Defense
Since Moscow invaded Ukraine in 2022, the Scandinavian country has intensified its efforts to enhance security along Europe’s eastern flank.
Earlier this month, Stockholm sent troops to Latvia, marking its first deployment of ground forces in another NATO country since joining the alliance last year.
Since November 2024, Sweden has been part of a European coalition for jointly acquiring 1,000 Patriot Guidance Enhanced Missile interceptors.