Stockholm, Sweden – The Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) has confirmed the use of Saab Gripen fighter aircraft in combat operations against Cambodia over the weekend, marking the first known weapons launch in combat for the Swedish jet.
Conflict Raises Questions About Future Sales
Thailand’s air strikes, which have been paused following a ceasefire announcement, come as Thailand negotiates for a new tranche of Gripens to expand its existing fleet of 11 C/D Gripens. The situation poses a dilemma for Sweden and Saab, as Sweden’s foreign minister has not committed to approving Thailand’s new purchase.
Escalation and Claims of Self-Defense
The conflict between Thailand and Cambodia escalated on Friday, resulting in an exchange of fire. Thailand claimed the strikes targeted military objectives „that posed threats to Thailand’s national security” and were carried out in compliance with international law and the nation’s right to self-defense under the UN Charter, according to spokesperson Air Marshal Prapas Sornchaidee.
Reports indicate that the Gripens, along with F-16s, conducted precision airstrikes using GBU-12 laser-guided bombs on Cambodian artillery and ground targets near the border.
First Combat Use for Gripen
The Saab JAS 39 Gripen has now reportedly seen its first combat use since its initial test flight in 1988. Previously, it was used for reconnaissance and similar missions, including Sweden’s NATO operation in Libya in 2011 and NATO air policing missions.
Export Deal in Question
In June 2025, Thailand announced plans to purchase 12 E/F Gripens, with orders expected soon. The Swedish parliament, Riksdagen, has authorized the government to enter into an agreement with Thailand for up to 12 new Gripens and additional air defense systems, but the contract remains unsigned.
Approval for the export deal rests with the Swedish government, involving bureaucratic processes and ultimately requiring the endorsement of Foreign Minister Maria Malmer Stenergard.
Stenergard has not committed to approving Thailand’s new purchase, stating that the government „is closely monitoring developments in the border conflict.”
Regulatory Oversight and International Law
According to Swedish export control regulations, the Inspectorate of Strategic Products (ISP) assesses matters concerning export licenses for military equipment before the government makes a formal decision.
A spokesperson for the Foreign Ministry emphasized the importance of respecting international law, including international humanitarian law, and urged all parties to work toward de-escalation, dialogue, and a peaceful resolution of the conflict.
Gripen Operators and Potential Customers
Currently, Sweden, South Africa, Brazil, Hungary, and the Czech Republic, along with Thailand, operate Saab JAS 39 Gripens. The E/F model is also under consideration by Colombia and Peru.
Thailand also operates Saab’s Erieye airborne surveillance systems. Saab has been active in Thailand since the mid-1980s and considers Thailand as one of its most significant customers.
