Ceremony Expected Later This Month
A formal signing ceremony is expected later this month to mark Thailand’s acquisition of additional Saab JAS 39 Gripen fighter jets from Sweden. Representatives from the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV), the Swedish government, Saab, and Thai officials will attend the event.
Thai Cabinet Approves Purchase
Thailand’s cabinet formally approved the purchase of four Saab JAS 39 Gripen E/F fighter jets from Sweden, valued at 19.5 billion baht ($550 million), to supplement its existing fleet of 11 Gripen C/D fighters. This acquisition is part of a larger plan to procure 12 Gripen E/F jets.
Broader Modernization Efforts
In addition to the Gripen acquisition, the Royal Thai Air Force announced plans to acquire the Meteor long-range air-to-air missile and upgrade its Saab 340 Airborne Early Warning aircraft fleet.
Contract Negotiations Ongoing
Saab confirmed that discussions are ongoing between the FMV, the Thai government, and Saab, as the acquisition is a government-to-government process. The company hopes to conclude these discussions shortly.
Swedish Regulations and Border Conflict Concerns
The program’s status was briefly questioned after Thailand reportedly used Swedish-supplied Gripens in a recent conflict with Cambodia. This triggered a Swedish government examination due to the country’s strict regulations on military equipment exports.
Review of Export Regulations
Swedish regulations generally prohibit exports to states engaged in armed conflict. However, these regulations are under review due to Sweden’s recent NATO membership, as they reflect Sweden’s historical neutrality.
Broad Interpretation of Regulations
Despite the regulations, Sweden has previously supplied Gripen aircraft to Thailand, even with ongoing issues with neighboring countries and internal conflicts. This suggests a broad interpretation of Swedish arms export regulations, according to Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI) analyst Pieter Wezeman.
Comprehensive Assessment of Recipient Countries
The Swedish state agency The Inspectorate of Strategic Products (ISP) stated that it conducts a comprehensive assessment of all relevant circumstances, including whether the recipient country is involved in armed unrest or armed conflict, during the review process.
