Brazil Test Fires First Meteor Missile from Gripen E Fighter

The Brazilian Air Force firing the Meteor beyond-visual-range air-to-air missile (BVRAAM) from the Gripen E fighter aircraft for the first time at Natal Air Base in Rio Grande do Norte | Photo: Saab

The Brazilian Air Force (FAB) has carried out its first firings of the Meteor beyond-visual-range air-to-air missile (BVRAAM) from the Gripen E fighter aircraft, marking a significant step in the service’s long-range air-defence capability. The tests took place in November during the BVR-X Technical Exercise at Natal Air Base in Rio Grande do Norte.

According to the FAB, two Meteor missiles struck their designated targets, demonstrating accuracy against long-range threats. The exercise involved four Gripen E fighters operated by the First Air Defence Group (1º GDA) and allowed Brazilian technicians and pilots to handle and employ the missile in conditions designed to simulate operational use.

“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,” said Air Major General Breno Diogenes Gonçalves, Commander of Natal Air Base and Director of the Technical Exercise.

The Brazilian Air Force firing the Meteor beyond-visual-range air-to-air missile (BVRAAM) from the Gripen E fighter aircraft for the first time at Natal Air Base in Rio Grande do Norte | Photo: Saab

Representatives from Saab and MBDA also highlighted the significance of the trials. Peter Dölling, Managing Director at Saab Brasil, said, “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.”

Ricardo Mantovani, Vice President Export Sales Americas at MBDA, added, “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.”

The Meteor missile, equipped with a ramjet motor for sustained thrust during interception, offers a large no-escape zone and is designed to engage a range of targets in varied environmental and electronic-warfare conditions. The BVR-X exercise included support from Saab, MBDA and FAB units, with the targets provided by manoeuvrable Mirach 100/5 drones replicating modern fighter performance.