Saab J-29 Tunnan
Summary
| Category | Combat aircraft |
| Origin country | 🇸🇪 Sweden |
| First flight | 1 September 1948 |
| Year of introduction | 1952 |
| Number produced | 661 units |
| Average unit price | $1 million |
Description
Although it is relatively unknown today, the Saab J-29 Tunnan ("Barrel" due to its appearance) was one of the first post-World War II European-designed fighters to be deployed.
The J-29 Tunnan was a single-seat jet aircraft featuring a distinctive swept-wing design that gave it a unique "flying barrel" appearance. It was powered by a de Havilland Ghost jet engine, enabling it to achieve supersonic speeds. The aircraft was equipped with built-in cannons and could carry a range of weapons, including rockets and bombs.
One of the most notable features of the J-29 Tunnan was its sturdy landing system. It utilized a parachute braking system to help reduce landing speeds, which was particularly important given the short runways of Swedish air bases.
Several versions of the aircraft were developed, such as the J-29B for ground attack missions, the S-29C for reconnaissance, and the J-29E with aerodynamic improvements for transonic speed.
A total of 661 Tunnan aircraft were produced, all of which served in the Swedish Air Force, except for thirty J-29F aircraft that were transferred to Austria in the early 1960s. It is worth noting that the Austrian aircraft were equipped with detachable pods containing three Vinten cine-guns for reconnaissance missions. All Tunnan aircraft were retired from active service by 1976, although the majority of their operational career within the Flygvapnet took place before 1965.
Technical specifications
| Version: J 29F | |
|---|---|
| Crew | 1 pilot |
| Operational range | 1100 km (684 mi) |
| Maximum speed | 1060 km/h (659 mph) |
| Wing area | 24.2 m² (259.9 sqft) |
| Wingspan | 10.2 m (33.6 ft) |
| Height | 3.8 m (12.3 ft) |
| Length | 11 m (36.1 ft) |
| Service ceiling | 15500 m (50853 ft) |
| Empty weight | 4845 kg (10681 lbs) |
| Max. takeoff weight | 8375 kg (18464 lbs) |
| Climb rate | 32.1 m/s (105.3 ft/s) |
| Powerplant | 1 × turbojet Volvo RM2B delivering 2753 kgp |
| Ejection seat | SAAB Mk-2 |
Current operating countries
No country is operating the J-29 Tunnan in 2024.
Photo of J-29 Tunnan
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