The Swedish Air Force has embarked on a comprehensive study into the viability of launching small satellites from the JAS-39 Gripen multi-role fighter aircraft.
Called “Stella,” the study is inspired by a statement from a former Ukrainian space agency official who said a responsive satellite launch capability with an aircraft would have been useful in preparing for an enemy attack.
According to Swedish Air Force – Space Division head Col. Ella Carlsson, a university in Stockholm has already looked into whether the proposed capability is feasible.
Initial findings suggest that an air-launched rocket could enable satellites weighing 2 kilograms (4.4 pounds) to be launched into Low Earth Orbit.
Now, Carlsson said the focus is on how a rocket could be safely fitted to the Gripen aircraft, with consideration for ground clearance.
“They are making calculations,” she said on the eve of the Farnborough International Airshow 2024. “But if we need to rebuild the aircraft [to fit the rocket], we won’t do it.”
‘No Guarantee’
The idea of launching small satellites from fighter jets is not new, as the Italian Air Force undertook a similar study in 2019 using the Eurofighter Typhoon.
With extensive experience in developing satellites and launch vehicles, the initiative was envisaged to help Rome launch military satellites from its own territory.
However, little is known about the results of the Italian study.
With the apparent failure of the first European study, Gripen manufacturer Saab cautioned that there is no guarantee the effort will lead to operational capability.
“As regards the specifics of the Stella study and its intended purpose, we will not prejudge the feasibility nor outcome,” a spokesperson told Breaking Defense.