The Swedish Air Force celebrated its centenary on Wednesday with ceremonies, concerts, and a historically large air display over Stockholm. A total of 54 airplanes and helicopters took part, with modern systems like the JAS 39 Gripen flying alongside several of the Air Force’s most classic aircraft.

The Air Force was established as an independent branch of the armed forces on July 1, 1926. Exactly one hundred years later, the anniversary was marked by a series of activities in the capital, where the flyover of Stockholm’s Royal Palace became the day’s most notable event. Aircraft passed in various formations, including the number 100 and so-called ‘Christmas trees’.

Classic Aircraft Met Today’s Gripen

The grand jubilee formation included both modern and historical aircraft. Among the classic Swedish plane models on display were the Saab 29 Tunnan, Saab 32 Lansen, Saab 35 Draken, and Saab 37 Viggen—all iconic aircraft that have formed the backbone of Sweden’s air defense in different eras.

Together with the current JAS 39 Gripen, transport planes, and helicopters, they offered a flying retrospective on a century of Swedish military aviation history. Over 50 aircraft took part in this historically large aerial flyover.

Ceremonies and Music During the Anniversary Day

The celebration began with a jubilee ceremony at the Aviator Monument on Karlaplan, followed by a guard parade from the Uppland Air Force Wing to the Royal Palace and a guard change in the outer courtyard. In the afternoon, the anniversary continued with concerts by the Home Guard’s bands and the Air Force Band at several locations in central Stockholm.

Meanwhile, the jubilee celebrations continue throughout the year across the country. The Swedish Armed Forces describe the anniversary as both a tribute to the Air Force’s history and an opportunity to highlight the future of air and space defense, where the JAS 39 Gripen E and new radar surveillance systems are set to play a central role.