F-16 not dead yet in Thailand despite RTAF’s selection of Gripen
A Thai Saab JAS 39C/D Gripen fighter taking off from Darwin during Exercise Pitch Black. (Photo: Gordon Arthur)
Lockheed Martin and Saab have both delivered updated offset proposals to Thailand’s air force with contracts yet to be signed on any deal.
A hard-fought Thai fighter competition between the F-16 and Gripen saw the Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) announce selection of the latter. After 10 months of deliberations, the RTAF decided the Gripen E/F was the better platform to replace ageing F-16A/Bs in Korat-based 102 Squadron.
The relevant RTAF committee last month stated: “It can be concluded that the JAS 39 Gripen E/F attack fighter has the ability to meet the strategic needs of the air force.” This year’s RTAF White Paper listed a need for 12–14 fighters.
The Thai government still has to ratify the decision before any contract can
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Air Warfare
-
![RAF Protector fleet grows as UK maritime surveillance role takes shape]()
RAF Protector fleet grows as UK maritime surveillance role takes shape
The RAF’s expanding Protector RG1 fleet could play a growing role in UK maritime surveillance following its first domestic operational sorties, with further aircraft deliveries scheduled through 2027.
-
![Leonardo details Proteus’s path to autonomous anti-submarine missions for the Royal Navy]()
Leonardo details Proteus’s path to autonomous anti-submarine missions for the Royal Navy
Leonardo’s integration of Shield AI’s Hivemind software could enable its Proteus uncrewed helicopter to conduct independent anti-submarine warfare missions, supporting the Royal Navy’s plans for a future hybrid air wing.
-
![Oshkosh and Grid Aero tie-up tests new model for scaling military UAS production]()
Oshkosh and Grid Aero tie-up tests new model for scaling military UAS production
By combining established manufacturing capacity with startup aircraft design, the partnership could offer an alternative approach to scaling military uncrewed aircraft production.
-
![European funding and NATO interoperability could shape Polish helicopter plans]()
European funding and NATO interoperability could shape Polish helicopter plans
Poland is seeking to update its transport helicopters as part of a wider military aviation modernisation programme, with EU funding requirements and NATO interoperability key considerations.
-
![Poland air focus: $8.27 billion UAV market highlights value of long-term supplier relationships]()
Poland air focus: $8.27 billion UAV market highlights value of long-term supplier relationships
Poland’s growing investment in UAVs highlights how recurring procurement contracts and continuous technological development can provide suppliers with sustained opportunities beyond initial acquisitions.
