The Thai government has approved the procurement of four Gripen E/F fighter jets from Swedish defense company Saab, as part of a $587 million deal. This order marks the first phase of a broader modernization plan involving a total of 12 aircraft.
According to local Thai media, the initial batch will consist of three single-seat Gripen E jets and one dual-seat Gripen F jet. These aircraft are scheduled to be delivered to the Royal Thai Air Force by 2029. Official contracts are expected to be signed in Sweden on August 25.
The deal also includes the integration of Leonardo’s Raven ES-05 AESA radar systems, a notable component enhancing the capabilities of the aircraft. The Gripen E/F models stand out for their advanced performance in both air-to-air and air-to-ground missions.
Gripen Selection Announced in June
Thailand officially announced its selection of the Swedish-made Gripen in early June, citing the comprehensive offset package that accompanied the offer. Future stages of the agreement are expected to include the delivery of MBDA-made Meteor beyond-visual-range air-to-air missiles. Additionally, Saab is set to modernize two Saab 340B Erieye AEW&C aircraft currently in the Thai Air Force inventory.
Gripens to Replace F-16s
The new Gripen E/F jets are intended to replace the Royal Thai Air Force’s aging fleet of Lockheed Martin F-16s. The full delivery of the 12 aircraft is expected between 2035 and 2036. Lockheed Martin had also competed in the tender, offering the F-16V model along with various offset proposals.
This agreement highlights Thailand’s commitment to modernizing its air force and further strengthens defense cooperation between Thailand and Sweden.
