The governments of Thailand and Sweden, in partnership with Swedish aerospace giant Saab, are in the final stages of negotiations for the sale of JAS 39 Gripen E/F multirole fighters. This move reflects Bangkok’s strategy to enhance and modernize its air combat capabilities amid a shifting regional security landscape.
According to a report from a leading international aerospace journal, discussions between the two nations are being conducted through a government-to-government (G2G) framework. This method is typically reserved for high-value defense transactions involving sensitive technologies and long-term strategic cooperation.
Thailand’s Gripen Fleet
Currently, the Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) operates a fleet of 11 Gripen C/Ds, alongside approximately 50 older-model F-16s. The new deal, expected to conclude by year’s end, could see the RTAF acquire a second full squadron of Gripen fighters.
A notable aspect of the RTAF’s decision is its preference for the Gripen E/F over the Lockheed Martin F-16 Block 70, the latest variant of the iconic American fighter jet. This choice underscores Thailand’s deepening defense ties with Sweden, which offers technology-sharing and industrial collaboration opportunities with fewer political constraints than U.S. defense deals.
Thailand’s Ministry of Defence has expressed its support for the Air Force’s selection. Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai affirmed the government’s commitment to enhancing national defense capabilities while respecting the RTAF’s technical judgment.
“The Royal Thai Air Force currently operates two fighter platforms—the Gripen C/D and the F-16—both of which effectively safeguard national sovereignty,” Phumtham stated in the Bangkok Post. “Given the Air Force’s intention to acquire another squadron, I trust their professional assessment to choose the most suitable platform.”
He also highlighted that Thai pilots who have flown the Gripen endorse its performance, considering it comparable to the F-16. Additionally, Phumtham disclosed that while the U.S. had offered financing options for an F-16 sale, Thailand’s defense policy does not permit debt-financed military procurement.
Technological Advancements with the Gripen E/F
The Gripen E/F represents a significant leap in capability compared to its predecessors. Designed for modern network-centric warfare, it features advanced sensor fusion, electronic warfare resilience, and multirole flexibility.
Saab’s campaign director for Thailand, Robert Björklund, outlined several key technologies offered under the package:
- Raven ES-05 AESA Radar: A swashplate-mounted active electronically scanned array (AESA) radar with superior tracking and targeting capabilities across a wide field of view.
- Skyward-G IRST System: A passive infrared search-and-track sensor capable of detecting stealthy or non-emitting targets.
- Mode 5 IFF: Secure and encrypted identification of friendly forces in a joint-force environment.
- Interoperability: Full compatibility with NATO’s Link-16 tactical datalink and Thailand’s indigenous Link-TH system.
Gripen E/F Specifications and Capabilities
The Gripen E/F is the most advanced version of the JAS 39 family, designed for highly contested electromagnetic and cyber warfare environments.
General Specifications:
- Manufacturer: Saab AB, Sweden
- Variants: Gripen E (single-seat), Gripen F (twin-seat for training/tactical command)
- Design: Canard-delta layout with fly-by-wire controls
- MTOW: ~16,500 kg
- Engine: GE F414G (22,000 lb thrust, afterburning turbofan)
- Max Speed: Mach 2.0
- Combat Radius: >1,500 km
- Ferry Range: >4,000 km
- Service Ceiling: ~50,000 ft
Combat Systems:
- Radar: Raven ES-05 AESA
- IRST: Skyward-G passive tracking
- EW Suite: Digital RWR, MAWS, LWS, and internal jammers
- Datalinks: Link-16, Link-TH, TIDLS (Tactical Info Data Link System)
Weapons Loadout:
- Hardpoints: 10
- Air-to-Air Missiles: Meteor BVRAAM, IRIS-T, AIM-9, AMRAAM
- Air-to-Ground Weapons: Taurus KEPD 350, RBS-15, Brimstone, JDAM, Paveway
- Cannon: 27mm Mauser BK-27
- Max Payload: ~5,300 kg
Operational Strengths:
- Short Takeoff and Landing (STOL) capability
- High sortie generation rate and low maintenance burden
- Affordable flight-hour cost (~$6,000–7,000/hour)
- Designed for dispersed basing and rapid mission turnaround
Thailand’s decision to expand its Gripen fleet aligns with broader regional trends, as smaller and medium-sized air forces seek greater operational independence while reducing reliance on U.S.-centric supply chains. With the Indo-Pacific witnessing increased geopolitical competition, particularly between China and the United States, Thailand’s diversified defense strategy aims to maintain its non-aligned yet capable airpower stance.
If finalized, the Gripen E/F acquisition will solidify Sweden’s presence as a reliable arms partner in Southeast Asia and bolster Thailand’s position as a modernized air force in a region increasingly characterized by advanced aerial threats and multipolar competition.
