Thailand orders Gripen E/F amidst regional tensions

Thailand has finalised a deal to acquire four new Gripen E/F fighter jets from the Swedish defence company Saab, strengthening its air force as regional tensions persist. The order, valued at approximately $553 million (£411 million/€476 million), was officially signed between Saab and the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration, with deliveries scheduled between 2025 and 2030, according to an August 25 Saab press release.

The contract includes three single-seat Gripen E aircraft and one two-seat Gripen F, along with supporting equipment, training, and logistical support. The procurement is part of a long-term plan by the Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) to modernise its fleet and replace ageing American-made F-16s.

In addition to the aircraft, Saab has committed to an “offset package” for Thailand. This agreement will involve a significant transfer of defence technology, industrial cooperation, and investment across various sectors of the Thai economy, a move intended to bolster the country’s strategic independence and industrial base.

“We welcome Thailand as the latest customer for Gripen E/F. Thailand is already a well-established Gripen user and familiar with the strengths that Gripen brings to the Royal Thai Armed Forces,” said Micael Johansson, President and CEO of Saab. “Thailand has chosen the most modern fighter on the market with which to build its next generation of strategic, independent capabilities.”

Thailand’s armed forces currently operate 11 Gripen C/D multi-role fighters, which have been in service since 2011. The new Gripen E/F jets are expected to operate alongside the existing fleet, providing a boost to the RTAF’s combat capabilities.

Regional Challenges

Thailand’s decision to invest in advanced fighter jets comes at a time of evolving security challenges in the region. The country is navigating a complex geopolitical landscape, with its military facing both internal and external pressures. Tensions along the border with Cambodia have recently escalated, with a series of landmine incidents and military clashes prompting a fragile ceasefire. The conflict has heightened the need for enhanced border security and aerial surveillance. Thailand also contends with threats from the ongoing insurgency in its southern provinces and transnational issues such as drug trafficking from Myanmar. The acquisition of new, more capable aircraft aligns with the country’s strategy to maintain a strong defence posture and project air power to secure its sovereignty.

Calibre comment

Thailand tries to balance its relations with all players in the Indo-Pacific region, courting both US and Chinese favour. It has ordered a large quantity of Chinese equipment, including main battle tanks and submarines, and deepened economic relations with Beijing over the past decade. However, purchases like that of the Gripen serve to provide modern and capable platforms, as well as maintain links to the West. It is worth noting that Cambodia’s air force has no fighter aircraft and only a handful of transport helicopters. Its most capable air defence system appears to be the KS-1C from China, a medium-range system. In theory, at least, Thailand would be able to gain air superiority over Cambodia with relative ease in the event of further conflict. 

By Sam Cranny-Evans, published on August 26, 2025. Credit for the lead image is Saab.