GKN Aerospace delivered the first upgraded RM12 engine to the Swedish Armed Forces under the RM12EP Enhanced Performance program for the JAS 39 Gripen C/D fleet. This milestone supports a SEK 400 million ($43 million) initiative to boost performance and long-term supportability of Sweden’s legacy Gripen C/D engines.
The RM12EP program launched in 2019, advancing to its final phase in October 2023 when Sweden’s Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) awarded the development contract to GKN Aerospace, Saab, and GE Aerospace. GKN handles development, production, support, and maintenance for the RM12—a derivative of GE’s F404 turbofan powering Gripen C/D—and the RM16 based on the F414 for Gripen E/F.
Upgrades feature improved turbine hardware and updated engine control software to increase thrust from 80.5 kN (18,100 lbf) with afterburner, enhance endurance, and cut lifecycle costs. The Gripen C/D remains central to Sweden’s combat aviation amid Gripen E integration. “This first upgraded engine delivery represents an important step forward in enhancing the performance and endurance of the Gripen system,” said Stefan Oscarsson, GKN Aerospace Vice President Governmental Solutions. “As type certificate holder for the Gripen C/D engine and with a partnership with the Swedish Air Force that spans nearly a century, we are proud to continue supporting Sweden’s operational capability and future readiness.”
Testing occurs at GKN’s Trollhättan facility in Sweden, with flight trials by Saab and FMV. The effort preserves Sweden’s fighter engine expertise while expanding RM16 support infrastructure.