Stridsflygdivisioners gruppdynamik : Med livet som insats

Sammanfattning: Many Swedish fighter pilots over the years have died during air missions. In recent years there has not been any breakdown of the JAS 39 Gripen with fatal outcome, although it has been close on several occasions. The high risk that it means to carry out daily training missions combined with serious missions, makes the role of the group interesting. It raises questions about the group dynamics on a fighter squadron. The purpose of this thesis was to investigate whether existing group theory used in the Understanding Group and Leader training at the Swedish National Defence College can be applied to fighter squadrons. Thus it was examined what the fighter squadrons do to achieve and maintain a well-functioning team, in order to ultimately deliver high efficiency in air combat missions. The method used was qualitative interviews. Interviews were conducted with the squadron leaders of the fighter squadrons who fly the JAS 39 Gripen in the Swedish Armed Forces. In order to produce query data and analyze the interview material, indicators derived from the group theory were used. The survey result shows that group theory used in courses at the Swedish National Defence College can be applied to fighter squadrons. The result also shows aspects of the fighter squadrons activities not found in the theory. This is especially the case in aviation activities, where the group performs at a high level with short notice, regardless if the group maturation generally is lower. The elements that fighter squadrons use to achieve and maintain a well-functioning group, consist of creating conditions for participation in the goal setting process, an open atmosphere to effectively manage conflicts, set occasions with feedback, management of experience and teambuilding.