While the developmental 210 served as the "proof-of-concept" for the Draken series, the J 35 itself was released in a handful of major production variants. This began with the initial J 35A production models dedicated for the interceptor role and built to the tune of some 90 examples. Deliveries of the type began in 1959 and continued on through 1961. Two examples of the A-models existed, known as "Adam kort" and "Adam lang" (translating to "Adam short" and "Adam long" respectively) and were differentiated by the addition of a new afterburning system in a lengthened tail section for improved thrust performance. This modification occurred after the 66th production J 35A and necessitated the use of an additional diminutive set of landing wheels along the aft portion of the lower fuselage. This new landing gear arrangement (coupled with the Drakens large wing area providing inherent drag) also allowed for "tail down" landings.
The J 35B was the next Draken derivative produced in 73 examples from 1962 through 1963. The B-model was given revised gun sights and radar fully-integrated into the STRIL-60 digital combat management system, as well as collision-course radar and a data-link system.
The SK 35C represented up to 25 J 35A production models converted into two-seat trainers. These trainers sported tandem seating for instructor and student and were provided sans armament. The modification of SK 35C's was such that the aircraft could be relatively easily converted back to their A-model fighting forms if need be.
The J 35D followed as the third production Draken model in the series. New engines were fitted in the form of the Rolls-Royce Avon 300 (RM 6C under the Flygmotor production label) with afterburner. Production lasted from 1963 through 1964 in which 120 examples were supplied.
The S 35E became 60 reconnaissance production examples. These aircraft were fielded sans armament and associated radar systems to make room for five cameras in the nose assembly. Though mostly new-build aircraft, nearly half of the operational batch were converted from existing J 35D production models.
The J 35F became the definitive Draken interceptor, produced to the tune of some 230 aircraft between 1965 and 1972. Cannon armament was reduced to 1 x M-55 ADEN 30mm cannon in an effort to add more important avionics facilities. A revised avionics, radar and weapons suite along with improved electronics all greeted the new Draken variant. The weapons suite consisted of a Hughes-designed automatic control system, pulse Doppler radar and provisions for the Hughes Falcon air-to-air missile family. The J 35F-II represented the J 35F model with a Hughes-brand infrared sensor. F-models eventually gave way to the much-improved Saab JAS Gripen multi-role fighters.
The J 35J were 66 J 35F models brought up to a new 1985 government standard in an effort to keep the Draken relevant. These aircraft were differentiated by their updated electronics and cannon, additional weapon pylons for AIM-9 air-to-air missile support and an increase to fuel capacity. J 35J's were essentially overtaken with the arrival of the Saab Viggen.
Due to Sweden's strict export policies, the Draken only served with a handful of nations, severely limiting the type's reach and, quite possibly, a more storied history. Beyond Sweden herself, operators included Austria, Denmark and Finland. The J 35H was a proposed export model but never produced. The J 35OE were 24 re-furbished J 35D models bought back by Saab to re-sell to Austria. Austria became the last global operators of the Draken, retiring their aircraft as recently as 2005. Denmark received the 35XD model designation and consisted of the F-35 strike fighter, TF-35 two-seat trainer and the RF-35 reconnaissance platform. Denmark modified their Drakens to fulfill (albeit to a limited extent) the strike role, offering provision for the AGM-12 Bullpup air-to-surface missile. Finland operated the Draken under the designations of 35BS, 35CS and 35DS. These designations essentially signified their respective Saab production models (J 35B, SK 35C and J 35D). The National Test Pilot School at the Mojave Spaceport in the United States owns at least six Drakens obtained from Denmark.
Several modifications were proposed for the Draken to make it into a dedicated strike fighter for the interim while Saab completed development and production of its JAS 39 Gripen multi-role fighter. Production of the Saab J35 ran from 1955 through 1974 to which some 644 total examples were delivered. All Saab J35 Drakens have since been retired from military service units worldwide. Denmark retired their Drakens in 1993 while Sweden followed in 1999. Finland operated the type up to 2000 while Austria serviced theirs until 2005 (the latter succeeded by F-5 Tiger II jets).
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