Sweden Moves to Arm Gripen Fighters with Taurus Cruise Missiles in Major Air Force Upgrade
Sweden has officially begun discussions with Germany to acquire and integrate the Taurus KEPD-350 air-launched cruise missile on its Saab JAS 39 Gripen C fighter jets. This move marks a significant step in Sweden’s efforts to enhance its air force’s strike capabilities, particularly in deep-penetration and precision-targeting operations.
According to Sweden’s Defence Materiel Administration (FMV), the initial integration of the Taurus missile will be carried out on the Gripen C, followed by a more advanced integration with the Gripen E under project MS23. FMV has been given the responsibility to procure the missile from Germany, while Saab has been tasked with conducting critical integration studies. These studies will assess the technical adjustments required for seamless deployment. The first operational deliveries, which include the MS20 Block 4 software update, are expected by 2028.
The Taurus KEPD-350 is a long-range, precision-guided missile developed through a German-Swedish collaboration. It is specifically designed to target fortified and hardened structures, making it a valuable asset in modern warfare. While the Taurus missile was originally designed with Gripen compatibility in mind, Sweden has never formally acquired it—until now.
This development aligns with Sweden’s broader air force modernization strategy. The Swedish Air Force currently operates 105 Gripen C/D fighter jets, but a restructuring plan aims to retire 45 of them and replace them with the newer Gripen E/F models. Meanwhile, 60 Gripen C/D jets will be upgraded to maintain operational effectiveness. The integration of the Taurus missile is expected to provide these aircraft with significantly enhanced strike capabilities.
Despite previous displays of Gripen jets carrying Taurus missiles at airshows, it remains unclear whether live-fire tests have ever been conducted. The upcoming integration efforts will involve a thorough assessment of any modifications needed for both the aircraft and the missile’s compatibility with its weapon systems.
Sweden’s NATO membership also opens the possibility of acquiring alternative strike weapons, such as the American AGM-158 JASSM, which is already in service with alliance members like Poland. However, the Taurus KEPD-350 remains a formidable choice, offering capabilities comparable to the British-French Storm Shadow/SCALP-EG missile.
The Taurus missile boasts a range of 500 km, allowing it to strike deep into enemy territory while flying at high-subsonic speeds (Mach 0.95). Its advanced low-altitude flight profile makes it highly stealthy, reducing the risk of detection by enemy air defenses. The missile is armed with a 481 kg MEPHISTO warhead, which features a dual-stage detonation system designed to penetrate reinforced structures before exploding, ensuring maximum effectiveness against heavily protected targets.
By incorporating the Taurus missile into its arsenal, Sweden is reinforcing its air force with a potent long-range strike capability. This decision underscores the country’s commitment to strengthening its defense posture as it fully integrates into NATO’s security framework.
