Development of the Saab J35 Draken dates back to the late 1940's. It was at that time that the Swedish government requested an interceptor aircraft with the ability to fly at speeds at least fifty percent greater than other aircraft of the time. It would utilize a radar system making it capable of day/night, all weather flight, be maneuverable, and carry the latest air to air missiles. The aircraft would be equipped with a self starting system and have an under carriage sturdy enough to operate from unimproved fields.

The most distinguishing feature of the Draken is its wing planform. The high strength, low weight design enables the carrying of relatively large amounts of fuel and weapons, while providing both low speed maneuverability and high speed flight.

Another feature unique to the aircraft is a pair of wheels under its tail to enable nose high landings. Such landings utilized drag from the large wings to shorten landing distance. Typical landing distance, when a nose high approach was combined with the deployment of a drag parachute, was about 2,000 feet.

Aircraft historians tell us that the Draken was so advanced for its time that if Sweden had chosen, it could have served in many of the world's air forces. However, the country limited its overseas sales.

The aircraft received upgrades through it service career. Anti collision radar, the latest missiles, a faster firing cannon, and more powerful engines, were all added to the Draken.

A version of the Draken, exported to Denmark, was converted for use as a ground-attack aircraft.

Sweden flew Saab Draken aircraft through 1998, while the Australian Air Force operated the aircraft through 2005.

A total of 644 Saab Draken aircraft of all types were produced.

Specifications
Primary Function:     Crew:     Engine:     Thrust:     Weight Empty:     Max. Weight:     Cannons:     Hard Points:     Ordnance:     Length:     Wingspan:     Max. Speed:     Climb Rate:     Range:     Ceiling:     First Flight:     Year Deployed:	interceptor one Volvo Flygmotor RM6C 17,634 lbs. 17,340 lbs. 25,130 lbs. 2- 30 mm four 6,400 lbs. 50' 4" 30' 10" 1,317 mph 34,450 fpm 2,000 miles 65,500 feet 10/25/55 1960