MRPS

Description: The Modular Reconnaissance Pod System (MRPS) is being developed by SaabTech, a Saab subsidiary, and Terma A/S for the Swedish Air Force JAS 39 Gripen fighter aircraft. This pod system meets the requirements of the Swedish Armed Forces for an advanced tactical airborne reconnaissance system. JAS 39 fitted with MRPS is called to replace AJSF 37 Viggen reconnaissance aircraft adding network-centric warfare capability. The Pod is designed for autonomous operation with an internally integrated Environmental Control System. A Reconnaissance Management System (RMS) and a Control Display Unit (CDU) are included in the basic pod configuration. Moreover, MRPS can be carried on other airborne platforms and is interoperable with NATO STANAG requirements.

The first production pods were delivered to the Swedish Defence Procurement Agency (FMV) early in 2005. The MRPS installed on a Gripen aircraft made its first flight 24 March 2005 in Linkoping, Sweden. Testing and evaluation were expected to follow at the same site for over a year period. The Swedish Air Force should achieve MRPS initial operational capability (IOC) on the Gripen aircraft during 2006.