BANGKOK, August 25 — The Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) will sign a government-to-government agreement today to acquire four advanced Gripen E/F fighter jets from Sweden in a deal worth 19.5 billion baht (approximately $600 million). The signing ceremony, to be held in Stockholm, marks a major step in Thailand’s efforts to modernize its aging air combat fleet.

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Air Force Commander-in-Chief Air Chief Marshal Phanpakdee Pattanakul will represent Thailand at the signing, with Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa attending as a witness. The new aircraft will replace older F-16 jets based at Wing 1 in Nakhon Ratchasima, enhancing operational capabilities without expanding the size of the air force—a move officials say prioritizes quality over quantity.

Thailand is purchasing three Gripen E and one Gripen F aircraft from Sweden, including training, equipment and logistical support. The sales were confirmed during an official Thai visit to Stockholm today: https://t.co/8Y1sUq5eye pic.twitter.com/s0izmXhVBn

— Försvarsdepartementet (@ForsvarsdepSv) August 25, 2025

The Gripen E/F, produced by Swedish aerospace firm Saab, is a state-of-the-art multirole fighter equipped with advanced avionics, electronic warfare systems, and network-centric warfare capabilities. The acquisition aligns with a cabinet resolution earlier this year approving the modernization initiative.

Thai Cabinet Approves Purchase of Four Gripen Fighter Jets in 19.5 Billion Baht Deal

Air Chief Marshal Phanpakdee emphasized that the new jets will significantly boost the RTAF’s effectiveness and readiness despite potential reductions in overall fleet size. The deal reflects Thailand’s strategic focus on maintaining a credible and technologically advanced air defense posture in a rapidly evolving regional security environment.

-Thailand News (TN)