Saab 18

Saab 18
A Swedish Air Force S 18A flies with the F 11 Wing over Sweden, c. 1946
A Swedish Air Force S 18A flies with the F 11 Wing over Sweden, c. 1946
Role Bomber, reconnaissance
National origin Sweden
Manufacturer SAAB
First flight 19 June 1942
Introduction 1944
Retired 1959 (Sweden)
Status Retired
Primary user Swedish Air Force (historical)
Produced 1944–1948
Number built 245

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.