Swedish jets purchased: Cabinet greenlights acquisition of 4 Gripens from Sweden
The Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) has taken a significant step towards modernizing its air force by approving the purchase of four Saab JAS 39 Gripen E/F fighter jets from Sweden. This purchase is the initial phase of a broader modernization program involving a total of twelve Gripen E/F aircraft, with delivery expected by 2035-2036.
The Gripen E/F models are equipped with advanced technologies such as Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar, advanced electronic warfare systems, and long-range Meteor missiles. These upgrades provide extended range, improved electronic warfare, and greater combat versatility versus older platforms.
The modernization plan, running from 2028 to 2035, aims to replace aging F-16A/B fighters from the 1980s, boost Thailand’s air defence capabilities, and maintain interoperability with the existing fleet of Gripen C/D jets already operated by the RTAF.
Expanding the Gripen fleet builds on the operational experience and logistics established with the current 11 Gripen C/D jets, allowing for streamlined maintenance, training, and support, contributing to better cost-effectiveness than upgrading or continuing with older US F-16s.
The acquisition emphasizes strengthening Thailand’s sovereignty and autonomy in air operations, particularly highlighted amid recent border clashes with Cambodia where air combat played a role. The effectiveness of Gripen C/D jets in these operations accelerated approval for the newer generation Gripen E/F aircraft.
The procurement cost is 19.5 billion baht and is being conducted transparently through a government-to-government (G2G) process, with an offset policy aimed at generating substantial economic returns for Thailand. The deal includes an extensive offset package and upgrades to Saab 340B Erieye AEW&C platforms, reinforcing defense ties with Sweden and enhancing Thailand’s network-centric warfare capabilities.
The opposition leader, Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut, expressed no objection to the cabinet's approval of the procurement of the four new Gripen fighter jets. However, he emphasized the need for the government to provide a clear strategic rationale behind the purchase.
Contrary to earlier speculations, the Swedish government has not suspended the sale of the Gripens, as confirmed by the Swedish embassy and the RTAF. The procurement process remains on schedule, with delivery of the first phase expected by 2029.
The first phase comprises three Gripen E jets and one Gripen F. The RTAF’s deployment of JAS 39C/D Gripen fighter jets in strikes against Cambodia on July 26 marked the first time the Swedish-built warplane had ever been used in combat.
The opposition leader, Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut, expressed no objection to the cabinet's approval of the procurement of the four new Gripen fighter jets. However, he emphasized the need for the government to provide a clear strategic rationale behind the purchase. The modernization plan, with its focus on modernizing the air force, boosting air defense capabilities, improving cost-effectiveness, and ensuring national sovereignty, seems to meet these requirements.
The modernization plan aligns the Royal Thai Air Force with current industry standards in aerospace technology, providing a strategic advantage in finance terms by opting for the newer Gripen E/F jets rather than upgrading older US F-16s. The procurement process, financed at 19.5 billion baht, is conducted with economic benefits in mind through an offset policy aimed at generating economic returns for Thailand within the aerospace and finance sectors.
