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RTAF opts for purchasing four Gripen fighter aircraft.

Military Forces of Thailand to Acquire Four Gripen E/F Fighter Jets from Sweden for 19.5 Billion Baht, Intending to Replace Aging F-16s and Securing Tech Transfer and Defense Offsets Valued Over 100 Billion Baht.

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Thailand's Air Force to procure four Gripen E/F fighters from Sweden at a cost of 19.5 billion...
Thailand's Air Force to procure four Gripen E/F fighters from Sweden at a cost of 19.5 billion baht, modernizing its fleet by retiring old F-16s, while securing technological transmissions and defense-related offsets exceeding 100 billion baht.

RTAF opts for purchasing four Gripen fighter aircraft.

Headline: RTAF to Acquire Four Advanced Gripen Fighter Jets from Sweden for 19.5 Billion Baht

The Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) has made a strategic decision to replace its ageing fleet of F-16s with four state-of-the-art Gripen E/F fighter jets from Sweden, at a total cost of 19.5 billion baht.

Straightforward Procurement Process

Air Marshal Prapas Somjaidee, in a press conference, stated that the procurement process was fair, transparent, and unbiased, ensuring a level playing field for potential suppliers.

Upgrading Defensive Capabilities

The F-16 jets, in service for over three decades, are set for phased decommissioning between 2028 and 2035. The acquisition of the Gripen E/F jets is crucial to ensure the RTAF maintains its defensive readiness and operational capabilities.

Making an Informed Choice

A special procurement committee, comprising representatives from various sectors, evaluated multiple fighter jet models. The Gripen E/F was selected based on its impressive performance, cost-effectiveness, and ability to meet the RTAF's operational requirements.

Boost in Defense Offset and Technology Transfer

The Swedish manufacturer offers a substantial defense offset package valued at over 100 billion baht. This includes the transfer of advanced Link-T tactical data link technology, personnel development, local defense industry support, and education programmes for RTAF officers.

Moving Forward in the Approval Process

The RTAF will present the procurement decision to the Royal Thai Armed Forces, who will subsequently submit it to the Cabinet for approval this month. If approved, the RTAF plans to sign the purchase contract with the Swedish government by August 2025.

The Gripen E/F: Advanced and Adaptable

The Gripen E/F boasts several advanced features and capabilities, making it a highly competitive option for air forces worldwide:

  • Advanced Radar System: Equipped with state-of-the-art AESA radars, the Gripen E/F offers enhanced surveillance and targeting capabilities.
  • Electronic Warfare Systems: Advanced electronic warfare systems provide a significant edge in modern combat operations.
  • Smart Weapons Capability: Flexible weapons systems enable mission planning and execution tailored to specific requirements.
  • Engine and Performance: Powered by the General Electric F414-GE-39E turbofan engine, the aircraft boasts increased thrust and improved air-to-surface capabilities, as well as fuel efficiency due to supercruise without afterburners.

Operational Excellence

The Gripen E/F is a multi-role fighter, delivering outstanding performance in various missions with its ergonomic cockpit, aerodynamic efficiency, and impressive maneuverability and speed. These features, combined with its cost-effectiveness and low operational costs, make the Gripen E/F an attractive choice for air forces seeking modernization and efficiency in their fleet.

Note: The Gripen E/F also benefits from advanced electronic warfare systems and supports a wide range of smart weapons, enhancing mission flexibility and adaptability in diverse combat scenarios.

Tags:- RTAF- Gripen fighter jets- Royal Thai Air Force- purchase- updated fleet capabilities- ThailandNews

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  1. The Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) plans to upgraded their defensive capabilities by replacing their aging F-16 fleet with four advanced Gripen E/F fighter jets from Sweden, boosting the country's technology and aerospace industry.
  2. The procurement process for the Gripen E/F was fair, transparent, and unbiased, ensuring a level playing field for potential suppliers while moving forward in the approval process.
  3. The Gripen E/F's advanced radar system, electronic warfare systems, and smart weapons capability make it an attractive choice for air forces seeking modernization and efficiency in their fleet, bolstering the economy and finance industries.
  4. The Swedish manufacturer offers a substantial defense offset package, including the transfer of advanced technology and education programs for RTAF officers, enhancing the education sector's development.
  5. The acquisition of the Gripen E/F fighter jets is crucial in maintaining the RTAF's operational capabilities, while also directly impacting the politics and finance industries through further negotiations surrounding technology transfers and offset packages.

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