The Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) has selected the JAS 39 Gripen E/F to be included in its new fighter attack squadron.
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As part of the RTAF’s Phase 1 program to procure replacement fighter jets for the 2025-2029 fiscal years, which aims to replace the F-16 A/B aircraft that have been in service with the 102nd Squadron, Wing 1, for over 36 years since 1988, the procurement project is of great importance. It has been outlined in the RTAF Whitepaper 2024, given the substantial budget required, sourced from public taxes. Therefore, the committee tasked with selecting and determining the procurement method for the replacement fighter aircraft, appointed by the Air Force Commander, has emphasized the need for careful consideration to ensure the cost-effectiveness of acquiring fighter jets capable of defending the nation for at least another 30 years.
The replacement fighter aircraft must surpass the capabilities of the current RTAF jets, align with the principles of commonality and continuity, and have the potential for future development in line with the strategic goals of the RTAF and the Royal Thai Armed Forces. The procurement must also adhere to the offset policy, aimed at promoting self-reliance, enhancing economic value, and increasing Thailand’s competitiveness on the international stage.
After over 10 months of thorough evaluation, the selection committee has concluded that the JAS 39 Gripen E/F fighter jet meets the RTAF’s operational needs according to its doctrine and strategy. It offers operational independence and can be developed to enhance multi-domain operations involving the RTAF, the Royal Thai Armed Forces Headquarters, the Army, the Navy, and various security agencies under the network-centric operation concept, effectively and in line with the allocated budget. The proposal also includes direct offset agreements, such as developing the defense industry for self-reliance to meet international standards, and indirect offsets, such as providing scholarships for personnel and civilians to gain advanced knowledge and skills abroad, technology transfer in environmental and agricultural fields, and establishing innovation centers to boost productivity and income generation, thereby enhancing Thailand’s long-term economic competitiveness.
The RTAF assures the public that the JAS 39 Gripen E/F fighter jet procurement will be carried out transparently, efficiently, and with full accountability, ensuring that the high-performance equipment acquired will effectively protect national sovereignty and airspace interests, respond to current and future threats, and align with the budgetary constraints and the country’s development policies set by the government.
Public Relations Department
Office of Civil Affairs and Public Relations
Department of Civil Affairs, Royal Thai Air Force
August 27, 2024