J35 Draken - "Double Delta Defender"

The Saab J35 Draken looks like no other machine flying today. Designed to meet a 1949 specification for an interceptor capable of reaching Mach 2 speeds, the Draken features a revolutionary double delta wing giving it a striking appearance. The Draken performed as well as it looked and was second only to the English Lightning in initial rate of climb. The fighter was very rugged and could operate from reinforced roads used as dispersed airstrips. It was also designed for ease of maintenance and servicebility. The Draken was continually upgraded and remained a formidable aircraft well into the 21st century. The last Drakens in service with Austria were retired in 2005.