Sweden Had a Cold War Fighter Jet Built For War With Russia.
As Sweden now ponders joining NATO after the Russian invasion of Ukraine, it is illustrative
to examine a Swedish Cold War airplane that was meant to stand up to the Soviets.
Sweden was neutral during that era, but its military feared a spill-over effect if the
Soviets violated Swedish air space in a menacing manner. Thus, the Saab 35 Draken fighter emerged
with an interesting and innovative design. This Airplane Started Off with a Unique Design
In the late 1940s, Sweden wanted a fighter-interceptor that was fast and
could climb quickly against enemy bombers. The requirements called for large weapons storage,
long-endurance, and the ability to take off from short runways.
Swedish engineers and technicians had a brainwave on a new design feature. They arrived on a unique
double delta wing design that made the Draken stand out among other fighters of its day.