Draken us aircraft trial#
Leonardo tested the new model under a trial basis with Draken in 2018 where it proved successful. To meet this need, Leonardo has developed a tailored, high-performance model which is able to support the ‘wartime rate’ of flying which is required.
The contract is designed to sustain Draken’s flying-by-the-hour business model, which requires the Grifo-L radars to be readily available. As part of engagements, the Grifo-L radar is used to emulate a credible threat to the 4th and 5th Generation US, Italian, NATO, and other Allied fighter pilots undergoing training. Here, the L-159E, nicknamed the “Honey Badger”, simulates the role of an ‘enemy’ aircraft. The Grifo-L radars which will be supported are used to deliver ‘Adversary Air’ services at the United States Air Force (USAF) Fighter Weapons School at Nellis Air Force Base. Key to the contract award was Leonardo’s ability to quickly implement a bespoke business model, whereby robust support is delivered via a repair-and-return cycle backed by the wider Leonardo business.
Leonardo has signed a multi-year support service contract with Draken International which will ensure that the Grifo-L fire control radar systems installed on Draken’s fleet of 24 L-159E fighter jets are available whenever they are needed. Leonardo’s Grifo family of radar systems is in service with six international Air Forces plus private operator Draken International, together reaching over 150,000 flight hours.
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