The legendary craftsmanship of Swedish aviation takes center stage at the International Sanicole Airshow during the weekend of 12 & 13 September 2026, as a true Cold War icon makes its Sanicole debut. Prepare to feel the thunder as it pierces the skies above Hechtel-Eksel thanks to the Swedish Air Force Historic Flight: the Saab J-32 Lansen.
Developed in the early years of the Cold War, the Saab Lansen was a remarkable example of Swedish innovation and engineering independence. Entering service in the mid-1950s, it was designed as a multi-role aircraft capable of interception, ground attack, and reconnaissance. The aircraft appearing at Sanicole is the J-32B, the all-weather interceptor variant that formed the sharp edge of Sweden’s air defense.
Powered by a license-built Rolls-Royce Avon engine equipped with afterburner, the Lansen could surge to speeds approaching Mach 0.9 while operating in the harsh and unpredictable climate of Scandinavia. Equipped with advanced radar for its time, powerful 30mm cannons, and air-to-air missiles, the J-32B stood ready to defend Swedish skies well into the 1970s.
Earlier Lansen variants also proved their versatility in ground-attack and reconnaissance missions, patrolling coastlines and safeguarding national territory. Today, the Saab Lansen endures as a striking symbol of Sweden’s aerospace heritage: a sleek Cold War sentinel that blends power, adaptability, and timeless Scandinavian design.
Bringing this rare aircraft to life is the Swedish Air Force Historic Flight (SWAFHF). This dedicated foundation preserves Sweden’s aviation legacy by restoring and operating historic military aircraft in flying condition. Based at Såtenäs Air Base (F 7), the organization maintains an impressive fleet ranging from World War II veterans to Cold War jets, regularly thrilling audiences at airshows across Europe.
Don’t miss the Sanicole debut of the Saab Lansen. Witness Swedish aviation history roar back to life as this Cold War interceptor streaks across the skies above Hechtel-Eksel in Belgium at the International Sanicole Airshow.
