Thailand to Sign Gripen Deal in Sweden

STOCKHOLM, Aug 25 (TNA) – The Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) is set to sign a government-to-government agreement today to procure four Gripen E/F fighter jets from Sweden, an acquisition valued at 19.5 billion baht (about $600 million).

The signing ceremony will take place in Stockholm, with Thai Air Force Commander-in-Chief Air Chief Marshal Phanpakdee Pattanakul representing Thailand. He will be joined by Thai Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa, who will serve as a witness to the agreement.

This acquisition is the first phase of a broader plan to modernize Thailand’s air fleet. According to the RTAF, the new Gripen aircraft will replace aging F-16 jets at Wing 1 in Nakhon Ratchasima.

Air Chief Marshal Phanpakdee stated that while the overall size of the air force will not increase—and may even shrink—the new aircraft will significantly enhance its capabilities and efficiency. The purchase follows a cabinet resolution that approved the project in principle.

The Gripen E/F, manufactured by Swedish aerospace company Saab, is an advanced multirole fighter jet known for its advanced avionics, electronic warfare systems, and network-centric capabilities. This acquisition marks a significant step in the RTAF’s efforts to upgrade its fleet and maintain a modern and effective air defense posture. -819 (TNA)