In a notable shift, Thailand has selected Sweden’s Gripen E/F fighters for its air force upgrade, signing off on a $500 million purchase for four jets in the first round of a broader acquisition plan.
The move replaces Thailand’s outdated F-16 A/B jets, which have been in service since the 1980s. Air Force leadership described the procurement as a key pillar in national defense readiness and long-term sovereignty protection.
The plan now awaits cabinet clearance, expected by July, with a target of completing the contract by the end of August. A prior 10-month review by a defense procurement panel concluded with a recommendation in favor of Saab’s Gripen platform.
