Thailand has chosen Gripen E/F fighters from Saab for its air force upgrade program, bypassing the more widely used U.S. F-16s in favor of the Swedish aircraft in a $500 million contract for four units.
According to Air Chief Punpakdee Pattanakul, the move is part of a larger 10-year strategy to boost Thailand’s aerial combat capabilities. These jets will serve as replacements for aging F-16 A/B models, which have been active for over 30 years.
While the government has yet to formally approve the purchase, the cabinet is expected to review the proposal in July and give the green light by August. A procurement board recommended the Gripen in August 2023 following extensive comparison with the F-16.
