Battleangel

So, essentially the government will meet the minimal requirement in order to retain rights and keep all options open. The Saab aerospace group will foot most of the bill for the demonstrator aircraft.

Regeringen.se - The Swedish Government gives the “go ahead” on the Neuron project - Today the Government has decided to go ahead with the UCAV project, commonly known as the Neuron. The decision firstly enables the Swedish Armed Forces to place an order with the Defence Materiel Administration concerning the development of a technology demonstrator for an UCAV. Secondly it enables the Defence Materiel Administration to sign an agreement with France on the co-operation concerning the UCAV. The aim of the agreement and the co-operation as such is twofold - firstly to enhance and deepen the knowledge of UCAVs - especially its value for the development of both military and civilian aeronautical competencies - secondly to strengthen the Swedish ability for sustaining and developing the JAS 39 Gripen.

A shrewd decision even though right wingers are lamenting the lackluster government support. They do have an entirely different cult that is formed around national defense and weapons. The whining is a little inconsistent considering they should be thrilled that the government leaves the project in the hands of the private sector. Funding and all. You can’t have it both ways you know. Also, this puts the government at a safe distance from the project and may prevent further investment, should the project turn out to be a failure or should Sweden, when a product is available, decide not to produce or acquire the craft. As controversial as weapon design is, the least you can do is try and guarantee that you don’t have to buy the products yourself.

Jane’s: Sweden reverses Neuron UCAV funding decision
Businesswire: Saab Welcomes Swedish Neuron Decision