Sweden Takes Delivery of Taurus KEPD 350 Cruise Missiles From German Stocks
Sweden has taken delivery of Taurus KEPD 350 long-range cruise missiles purchased from German military stocks, AeroTime reported on Nov. 3, 2026. The missiles are meant to support the Gripen fleet’s deep-strike capability.
What is known
Sweden began procuring Taurus and integrating it on the Gripen C/D in February 2025. Introduction into service was first planned by 2028, and Swedish Air Force commander Maj. Gen. Jonas Wikman has said the air force, the defence materiel agency FMV and industry are working to speed it up.
On Aug. 21, 2026 a Gripen C launched a live Taurus KEPD 350 for the first time at the Vidsel Test Range in Norrbotten. The Swedish Air Force released no further details about the shot.
What is the Taurus KEPD 350?
Developed by Taurus Systems, a joint venture of MBDA Deutschland and Saab, the missile is built for long-range precision strikes against hardened, high-value targets. It has a range of roughly 500 km and a 481 kg MEPHISTO penetrating warhead.
Why it matters
In Wikman’s words, Sweden had no deep-strike or offensive counter-air capability before; Taurus marks a major shift.
Not disclosed
- The number of missiles delivered and the delivery date
- The current target date for completing integration
- Plans for the newer Taurus Neo on the Gripen E
Sources: AeroTime, Nov. 3, 2026; Flygvapnet/FMV post of Aug. 21, 2026, as reported by The Aviationist.
