Bangkok bolsters its air force with advanced Swedish aircraft, while Sweden’s NATO membership prompts arms export policy review.
Agreement Reached: Thailand to Receive Gripen Jets
Sweden and Thailand have finalized an agreement for Bangkok to purchase four Gripen E/F fighter jets from Saab, a Swedish defense firm, for approximately 5.3 billion Swedish kroner ($550 million USD). The contract, announced in Stockholm, includes three Gripen E and one Gripen F aircraft, along with associated equipment, support, and training. Deliveries are scheduled between 2025 and 2030.
Offset Package and Enhanced Cooperation
In addition to the aircraft, Saab has signed a separate agreement with the Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) to deliver a „comprehensive offset package,” featuring technology transfers, industrial cooperation, and new investments across various sectors of Thailand’s economy.
„Warmly, congratulations on acquiring this capability, and thank you for choosing also to deepen the cooperation between Sweden and Thailand,” said Swedish Defense Minister Pål Jonson at the signing ceremony.
Replacing Aging F-16s
The RTAF currently operates a squadron of Gripen C/D multi-role fighters. The new Gripens will be acquired under the Peace Burapha program, replacing American-made F-16A/B Block 15 ADFs of 102 Squadron based at Korat (Nakhon Ratchasima). Thailand plans to replace all of its F-16s by 2035.
Scrutiny and Policy Review
The order had been under review following Thailand’s reported use of Gripen C/D jets in a July 2025 border conflict with Cambodia, prompting a Swedish government examination due to its strict arms export regulations.
However, Sweden’s recent NATO membership has led to a review of existing regulations, which were shaped by the country’s history of non-alignment with military alliances.
Growing International Interest
Thailand also operates Saab’s Erieye airborne surveillance systems, and the Swedish defense company has been active in Thailand since the mid-1980s.
Alongside Thailand, the air forces of Sweden, South Africa, Brazil, Hungary, and the Czech Republic operate the Gripen. Colombia, Peru, and Canada are also evaluating the advanced E/F model for potential acquisition, indicating growing international interest in Saab’s multi-role fighter.
