Thai Cabinet Greenlights Gripen Purchase

THAILAND’S Cabinet has approved the Royal Thai Air Force’s (RTAF) request to purchase four new JAS 39 Gripen E/F fighters from Sweden’s Saab. The approval comes at a time of conflict with Cambodia in which RTAF fighters, including F-16s and Gripens were scrambled to strike Cambodian targets.

In a social media post, the RTAF said “The Cabinet approved the RTAF’s request to purchase new Saab JAS 39 Gripen fighter jets to replace decommissioned ones, strengthening our ability to protect sovereignty over Thai airspace.” News reports stated that RTAF chief Air Chief Marshal Phanpakdee Pattanakul will visit Sweden to finalise the deal with Saab on August 25.

Following the RTAF’s use of two Gripens from Wing 7 in their strikes, Cambodia alleged that Sweden’s government would not allow the new order to go through, claims that were swiftly struck down by the Swedish embassy in Bangkok and Stockholm.

The first phase of three over the 10-year programme estimated to cost US$1.8 billion will see three single-seat Gripen Es and one two-seat Gripen F’s equipped with MBDA’s Meteor Beyond Visual Range Air-to-Air Missile (BVRAAM) and accompanying systems.

Selected in August 2024, Saab’s offset policy offers the RTAF access to its tactical data link which would provide the air force with an advantageous edge in the future, with plans to further develop their own version of the data link called Link T reportedly already in the works. Furthermore, Saab’s offer reportedly also includes upgrades of the air force’s Saab 340 airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) aircraft without charge. The upgrades would typically cost an estimated US$146 million.

In the meantime, the RTAF will continue operating the F-16s for around 10 more years while the new Gripens are inducted into service.

Momentum for Saab on the Gripen has been strong, following the Thai order as well as another recent order from Colombia for 16 more Gripens. Furthermore, the Gripen is also said to be a strong candidate for the Philippine Air Force’s (PAF) Multi-Role Fighter (MRF) programme alongside the American Lockheed Martin F-16 C/D Block 70/72.

The Philippines had stated that it prefers a full package comprising fighter aircraft, airborne warning and control system/airborne early warning and control (AWACS/AEW&C) as well as aerial refuelling tankers. Saab is the manufacturer of several AWACS/AEW&C platforms, including the 340 AEW&C currently operated by the RTAF.

In another development, Thailand is accelerating efforts to modernise and replace military assets damaged during recent conflict, citing the intensifying regional security challenges while simultaneously acquiring next-generation defence and security systems.

Recently, the kingdom’s Deputy Minister of Defence and Acting Minister of Defence General Natthaphon Nakpanich, tasked the Supreme Commander with formulating a procurement plan for replacement military equipment following recent combat operations. The government has expressed full support for this initiative and aims to enhance overall combat readiness.

With over US$308 million in new procurement expected and a strategic shift toward offensive-capable technologies, the market is primed for significant growth as Bangkok hosts the upcoming Defense & Security 2025 at the IMPACT Exhibition Centre in Muang Thong Thani from November 10-13.

Fully supported by the Royal Thai Armed Forces, international defence giants and decision-makers will gather at the 12th Defense & Security 2025, Done of the longest running defence exhibitions since its inception two decades ago, gathering regional leaders and global industry powerhouses.With the Thai military accelerating efforts to reinforce its capabilities, Defense & Security 2025 is set to be bigger, faster, and more impactful than ever.-shp/adj/dl (Pix:RTAF)