Saab 18B

The Saab 18B was a Swedish twin‑engine bomber and reconnaissance aircraft developed by Saab in the early 1940s. Designed as a response to the Swedish Air Force’s requirement for a fast, all‑metal monoplane capable of both high‑altitude bombing and long‑range maritime patrol, the prototype first flew on 30 July 1942. Powered by two Junkers Jumo 211 or later Swedish‑built STC‑engine variants, the 18B could reach 460 km/h and carry up to 1 200 kg of bombs or a torpedo under the fuselage. Its distinctive high‑mounted wing, retractable undercarriage, and reinforced nose allowed for a modest defensive armament of 13 mm machine guns. After World War II, the type was modernised with radar, improved navigation equipment, and a converted version equipped for electronic warfare and target towing, extending its service life until 1965. Though only 88 units were built, the Saab 18B demonstrated Sweden’s ability to produce a sophisticated indigenous combat aircraft under wartime constraints. The aircraft’s adaptable design laid the groundwork for later Saab projects, influencing the development of the jet‑powered Saab 32 Linden and establishing the company’s reputation in both military and civil aviation. It also served as a testbed for early Swedish radar experiments, contributing valuable data to post‑war air‑defence strategies.

Saab Group

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Design & Classification