Thailand Pushes for Eight More Gripen E/Fs in a Single Batch to Complete Its 12-Jet Squadron
The Royal Thai Air Force is pushing to procure eight additional Gripen E/F fighters in a single batch, completing its planned 12-aircraft squadron. Bangkok signed for three single-seat Gripen Es and one two-seat Gripen F in August 2025 — Saab’s first fighter export contract in twelve years, following Brazil’s order in the 2010s.
The first four aircraft are due for delivery in 2029-2030. If the new proposal clears budget review and government approval, the eight-jet batch would arrive between 2030 and 2034, bringing the squadron to full strength.
Why one batch instead of two
Thailand’s original plan split the buy into two agreements, and budget pressure raised the risk of even smaller increments. The air force argues that fragmented procurement inflates unit costs and stretches the timeline to operational readiness. Thailand’s defence budget stood at $5.89 billion last year.
Combat experience against Cambodia
Operational experience accelerated the decision: RTAF Gripen C/Ds flew strike missions during the border conflict with Cambodia, reportedly marking the first integration of South Korean KGGB glide bombs on Swedish-built fighters.
The Ukraine comparison
Defense Express notes the contrast in delivery terms: Ukraine’s 16-aircraft Gripen E contract, concluded in June 2026, foresees deliveries in 2029-2030 — meaning Kyiv, which signed later, could field a full Gripen E force before Bangkok if Thailand’s procurement stays fragmented. The single-batch push aims to close that gap.
Sources
A Royal Thai Air Force Gripen C (70106) on the runway during an exercise in Australia. Photo: Saab Australia / Wikimedia Commons, CC BY 2.0.
