Description:
Saab 35 Draken was designed as a supersonic, high-altitude air defense fighter based on a revolutionary double delta wing aerodynamic configuration. Initial operational capability (IOC) with the Swedish Air Force was achieved in 1959/1960. In 1998 the Swedish Air Force retired the last Draken after being its backbone for more than three decades. Saab also developed variants to operate at medium altitude matching the changing demands of Swedish Air Force despite its primary role was air defense at high altitude flying at twice the speed of sound.
The original model performing as a fighter aircraft and introduced in 1960 was designed J 35A and thereafter was followed by J 35B, J 35D, J 35F, J 35J, S 35E surveillance version and SK 35C trainer. J designation reflects fighter aircraft role. The latest model developed by Saab, the J 35J, was a derivative of J 35F. J 35J was powered by a RM 6C engine which was the designation of Rolls Royce Avon produced in Sweden under license agreement.
All in about 612 Saab 35 Draken were produced for four countries. Sweden was the largest operator with more than 500 aircraft. Export customers included Austria, Denmark and Finland. Danish Air Force purchased 51 Drakens and sold six to the US Air Force which utilized the aircraft to perform as foe aircraft during training exercises. Finland produced 12 aircraft under license agreement. Austria also purchased the aircraft type and as of October 2005 remains the only active operator. Austria will replace Draken by the Eurofighter/Typhoon in the near future. Austria phased out its last eight Saab 35 aircraft in early March 2007.
Specifications Accommodation: Crew 1
Guns: Main Gun Caliber 30 mm
Dimensions: Height 3.9 m, Length 15.3 m, Wingspan 9.4 m
Weights: Max Weight 10,500 kg (23,148 lb)
Engine/s Performance: Thrust 17,400 lb (7,893 kg)
Performance: Ceiling 18,000 m (59,055 ft), Max Range 3,250 km (1,755 nm), Top Speed 664 mps (Mach 2)
Austria / 
Denmark / 51 / 
Finland / 
Sweden / 500 / 
United States of America /