Saab has received an order from the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (Forsvarets materielverk, FMV) for the procurement of additional LITENING 5 target designator pods, including maintenance capabilities. The order is valued at SEK 390 million. LITENING 5 is used in the precision designation of targets through laser targeting and target tracking. FMV previously ordered this version of LDP for Gripen E fighter, and are also now integrated on Gripen C/D Multirole fighter. This order comprises the additional pods, maintenance and spare parts. The pods and maintenance capabilities will be delivered to FMV in 2026.
“By building up a maintenance capability for this version of target designation pod, Saab is ensuring that the Swedish Armed Forces can maintain them within Sweden’s borders,” says Lars Tossman, head of Saab’s Aeronautics business area.
The AN/AAQ-28(V) Litening targeting pod is an advanced precision targeting pod system currently operational with a wide variety of aircraft worldwide. The research and development of the Litening was first undertaken by Rafael Advanced Defense Systems’ Missiles Division in Israel, with subsequent completion of Litening I for use in the Israeli Air Force. The Litening 5 is the latest version of the pod introduced in 2019. It improves the resolution of the short and medium-wave infrared cameras and introduces a synthetic aperture radar with a 100 km range.[11] The Litening 5 is being introduced to service on Gripen and Typhoon aircraft.
Saab is a leading defence and security company with a mission to help nations protect their populations and contribute to the safety of people and communities. With 22,000 skilled employees, Saab develops technology and solutions for a safer and more sustainable world. Saab develops, manufactures, and maintains advanced aeronautics systems, weapons, command and control systems, sensors, and underwater systems. Saab is headquartered in Sweden but with global operations where Saab is a part of many nations’ defence capabilities.
