Swedish Air Force SAAB SK.60 Solo Display

The Swedish Air Force SAAB SK.60 Solo Display was a single-ship demonstration team that showcased the remarkable capabilities of the Saab 105, widely known as the SK 60, through breathtaking aerial performances. This agile jet, once a key component of the acclaimed Team 60, was equipped with smoke pods under its wings, producing striking visual effects that elevated the artistry of each display. Piloted with exceptional skill, the SK 60’s maneuvers were often synchronized with music, captivating airshow audiences and highlighting both the aircraft’s versatility and the pilot’s precision.

Throughout its history, the SK 60 Solo Display earned widespread recognition, with the pilot securing numerous awards for flawless execution and innovative choreography. The team became a beloved fixture at airshows, blending technical prowess with an engaging presentation that left a lasting impression on spectators. The 2024 season marked the end of this era, as the Swedish Air Force retired the SK 60 in June. Limited to performances in May and June, the farewell displays celebrated the aircraft’s storied legacy, drawing enthusiastic crowds for its final flights under military operation.

The SK 60’s retirement from the Swedish Air Force did not spell the end of its journey. Transferred to the Swedish Air Force Historic Flight and maintained by private operators, the aircraft will continue to soar, preserving its legacy for future generations. The Solo Display’s history of excellence and its role in showcasing Swedish aviation expertise remain a point of pride, ensuring its place in the hearts of aviation enthusiasts and the broader public alike.

The Saab 105, also designated Sk.60 in Swedish service, is a twinjet, high-wing trainer aircraft developed by Saab AB in Sweden during the early 1960s. Conceived as a private venture, it was designed to fulfill a variety of roles, including jet training, reconnaissance, ground attack, and limited interception duties. The aircraft features a distinctive high-wing layout with a T-tail and is powered by twin Turbomeca Aubisque turbofan engines, which were later upgraded to Williams International FJ44 engines in some versions. Its maiden flight took place on June 29, 1963, and it quickly gained a reputation for versatility, ease of handling, and impressive maneuverability—qualities that made it a standout platform for both military and civilian applications.

Production of the Saab 105 kicked off in the mid-1960s, with the aircraft entering operational service in 1967. It was initially developed to replace older jet trainers like the De Havilland Vampire and proved adaptable enough to serve in multiple configurations. Variants included two-seat trainers, four-seat liaison transports, and specialized reconnaissance models equipped with nose-mounted cameras. The Saab 105 also saw export success, notably with Austria, where it was designated the Saab 105Ö and employed in diverse roles. Over its lifespan, the aircraft benefited from upgrades to its avionics and engines, ensuring it remained relevant well into the 21st century.

Known for its agility, the Saab 105 became a favorite at airshows, where its performance was showcased by display teams like Sweden’s Team 60 and Austria’s “Karo As” and “Silver Birds.” These demonstrations highlighted its nimble handling and robust design, earning it a lasting place in aviation circles. After more than five decades of service, the Saab 105 was phased out in 2024, closing the chapter on a remarkably enduring aircraft. Its legacy lives on as a testament to Saab’s engineering prowess and its ability to produce a multi-role jet that stood the test of time.

In the Swedish Air Force, the Saab 105 earned the designation Sk.60 and became a cornerstone of operations starting in 1967. Saab secured an initial order for 130 aircraft in 1965, later expanded to 150, with deliveries commencing in 1966. The Sk.60A variant, featuring a four-seat configuration, was primarily used for jet training and liaison tasks, replacing the aging Vampire fleet. Meanwhile, the Sk.60B, with its side-by-side twin seating, was tailored for light attack missions, showcasing the aircraft’s adaptability across training and combat roles.

The Sk.60 evolved through several variants to meet Sweden’s diverse needs. The Sk.60C combined attack and reconnaissance capabilities, equipped with cameras in the nose for intelligence gathering. Later, the Sk.60D and Sk.60E emerged as four-seat liaison transports and navigation trainers, respectively, supporting a wide range of air force activities. The aircraft played a vital role in preparing pilots for advanced jets like the Saab JAS 39 Gripen, cementing its status as a key training platform. Its reliability and versatility made it a workhorse for nearly six decades.

A major upgrade in the 1990s saw the Sk.60 fleet refitted with Williams International FJ44 engines, becoming the Sk.60W, which extended its service life significantly. Beyond training, the aircraft dazzled audiences as the mount for Team 60, the Swedish Air Force’s aerobatic display team, performing precision maneuvers at airshows until its retirement. The Sk.60’s long career came to an end on June 18, 2024, after 57 years of service, marking a poignant farewell to an aircraft that shaped generations of Swedish aviators.

• Private Venture Origins: The Saab 105 was developed in the early 1960s as a private venture by Saab AB, without initial government funding. This bold initiative led to its adoption by the Swedish Air Force as the SK60, replacing the outdated De Havilland Vampire fleet.
• Aerobatic Display Icon: The aircraft served as the backbone of the Swedish Air Force's Team 60 and Austrian display teams like "Karo As" and "Silver Birds," showcasing its agility and earning it a reputation as a star of aerobatic performances.
• Failed Business Jet Dream: Saab designed the 105 with ambitions of it becoming a four-to-five seat business jet for civilian use, featuring advanced turbofan engines. However, it found little success in the civil market and remained primarily a military aircraft.
• Record-Breaking Longevity: The Saab 105/SK60 is the longest-serving aircraft in Saab’s history, operating with the Swedish Air Force for nearly 60 years until its retirement in 2024, a testament to its durable and adaptable design.
• Versatile Multirole Design: Engineered for flexibility, the Saab 105 could switch between roles such as jet training, reconnaissance, ground attack, and limited interception, making it a highly valuable asset for both the Swedish and Austrian Air Forces.