Create a free starter account, or log in.

Get access to four free articles per month, as well as our Decisive Edge Newsletters and Daily News Bulletin.

Email Address

Password

Forgot your password? Reset by clicking here

Create a Password

[[ req.met ? '✓' : '•' ]] [[ req.text ]]

Re-enter Password

Passwords do not match

First Name

Last Name

Country

Confirm your account

Please enter the four-digit pin below that has been emailed to you.

Didn't receive the pin yet?

This pin expires in 20 minutes.

[[ error ]]

By creating an account, you agree to the Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Stay informed with Shephard's award-winning journalism. Unlock unlimited access and in-depth analysis with a corporate or individual subscription.

Explore your options here

Royal Thai Air Forces’ bid for Saab’s Gripens backed by defence minister

15th January 2025 - 17:20 GMT | by Lucy Powell

RSS

Saab’s JAS39 Gripen E/F aircraft is the upgraded variant that could replace Thailand’s aging F-16s. (Photo: Saab)

The Thai government minister expressed confidence in the aircraft type, noting that a decision on the selection process between the Gripen and F-16 would be “made soon”.

Thailand Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai has revealed that the Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) plans to move forward with its acquisition of Saab’s JAS 39 E/F Gripen jets, reportedly expressing backing for the Swedish-made fighter.

As first reported by The Nation, the defence minister said he had “instructed the RTAF to carefully select the most effective fighter jets” and revealed that the government was in discussion with Saab about “potential benefits for the [RTAF], such as technology transfer”.

While the RTAF announced the selection of the Gripen E/F fighter in August 2024 over the F-16 Block 70/72 as a replacement

Already have an account? Log in