The Swedish Air Force Wing F 7, based at Satenas, was the first unit to become operational on Gripen back in 1997. Having flown the first versions ever since, they are now beginning to convert to the latest Gripen versions. The conversion is primarily aimed at supporting the training of pilots from the Royal Thai Air Force.
Gripen operations began at F 7 in 1997 and the squadrons at Såtenäs have since then been flying the Gripen versions A and B. The 1st Operational Conversion Training Unit (OCTU) at F 7 is now replacing their A/B to C/D.
The Gripen instructors at 1st OCTU are now preparing to train the first batch of Thai Gripen pilots, which recently arrived to Sweden.
The Gripen simulators at F 7 are also being upgraded to Gripen C-status. The MMT – Multi Mission Trainer – is already converted and will soon be followed by the FMS – Full Mission Simulator.
