Saab 18
| Saab 18 | |
|---|---|
| General information | |
| Type | Bomber, reconnaissance |
| National origin | Sweden |
| Manufacturer | SAAB |
| Status | Retired |
| Primary user | Swedish Air Force (historical) |
| Number built | 245 |
| History | |
| Manufactured | 1944–1948 |
| Introduction date | 1944 |
| First flight | 19 June 1942 |
| Retired | 1959 (Sweden) |
The Saab 18 was a twin-engine bomber and reconnaissance aircraft, designed and built by Svenska Aeroplan AB (SAAB) for use by the Swedish Air Force in response to a 1938 design competition. Due to delays, it did not enter service until 1944, but quickly became the standard Swedish bomber aircraft. Serving in the bomber, reconnaissance and ground-attack roles, it also assisted in the development of ejection seats and air-to-surface guided missiles until its replacement by the Saab Lansen in the late 1950s.