Brazilian Gripen E Jets Complete First Live Meteor Missile Firings

On Dec. 2, 2025, Saab reported that the Brazilian Air Force has successfully carried out its first live launches of the Meteor beyond-visual-range air-to-air missile (BVRAAM) from Gripen E fighter jets. The tests, believed to have taken place in late November 2025 as part of the BVR-X Technical Exercise at Natal Air Base, involved four Gripen E aircraft and saw two Meteor BVRAAM missiles hit their designated targets. The tests had additional support from Brazil’s First Air Defense Group and multiple partner organizations including Saab and MBDA.

The tests relied on Mirach 100/5 drone targets designed to replicate the speed and altitude of modern fighter aircraft, providing a realistic measure of the Meteor BVRAAM's effectiveness. Powered by a ramjet engine that maintains thrust all the way to impact, the Meteor BVRAAM offers a far broader engagement area than conventional medium-range missiles. Paired with the Gripen E’s sophisticated sensors and electronic warfare capabilities, the missile strengthens Brazil’s defense in the air domain.