First Embraer-built Gripen E fighter makes maiden flight ahead of further testing and delivery to the Brazilian Air Force

The first Gripen E assembled by Embraer in Brazil made its maiden flight at Gavião Peixoto on October 6, ahead of further acceptance testing and delivery to the Brazilian Air Force. A Saab test pilot checked the aircraft's principal systems and flight characteristics during the sortie, the companies reported the following day. The aircraft is the first of fifteen being produced in Brazil under the 2014 order for thirty-six fighters, comprising twenty-eight single-seat Gripen Es and eight two-seat Gripen Fs. After completing testing, it is intended to join the 1st Air Defence Group at Anápolis.