Sweden tests Taurus KEPD 350 cruise missile from Gripen fighter

The Swedish Air Force successfully conducted the first launch of a Taurus KEPD 350 long-range cruise missile from a Saab JAS-39C Gripen fighter jet. The test took place on August 21, 2026, at the Vidsel Test Range in northern Sweden.

This milestone marks a significant step in Sweden’s development of deep-strike capabilities, allowing for precision strikes on surface targets at distances exceeding 500 km. The integration of this weapon system is intended to enhance Sweden’s conventional deterrent and expand NATO’s options for stand-off strikes against strategic infrastructure and command nodes.

According to the official schedule, the system is expected to reach full operational readiness by the end of 2028. The Taurus KEPD 350 is a joint German-Swedish development that has previously been integrated with other aircraft, including the Panavia Tornado and Eurofighter.