The prototype Saab 29 first flew in 1948 and when it entered production in 1951 was the first swept wing jet fighter to achieve production status in Western Europe. It benefited from German research into swept wing aircraft which became available after World War 11. The J-29A (224 built) was followed by the J-29B (360 built) in 1953 and which had increased fuel. The J-29D and J-29E were built in small numbers and introduced saw tooth leading edges to the wings. The J-29F was the final production version which incorporated the improvements made on the previous two variants. Apart from Sweden, Austria was the only other country to operate the type, ordering 30 surplus Swedish J-29F’s in 1961. The A-29F was an attack version of the J-29F armed with 24 Bofors 75mm rockets. During its service with the Swedish Air Force, which ended in 1976, the J-29 saw action in the Congo in 1962 while serving with the United Nations. Affectionately known as the ‘Tunnan’ (Barrel), production of the type ended in 1956 and one example remains airworthy in civil markings in Sweden.

SE-DXB                c/n 29670                  Sweden

Single seat fighter bomber first flown in 1954

Engine: 6173lb.s.t.(27.4kN) Svenska Flygmotor RM2B                                                                     Length: 33’2.5"(10.12m)                                                                                   Height: 12’3.5"(3.75m)Wingspan: 36’1"(11.0m)                                                                                                 No.built: 308 Range: 800miles(1287km)                                                               Cruising speed: 500mph(804kmh) Empty weight: 9480lb(4300kg)                                           Maximum take-off weight: 17,637lb(8000kg)

Saab J-29F Side view 1/144 scale

Side view 1/108 scale

Side view 1/72 scale