Royal Thai Air Force Chooses Saab Gripen E/F for Future Fighter Aircraft

Royal Thai Air Force Chooses Saab Gripen E/F for Future Fighter Aircraft

(IN BRIEF) The Royal Thai Air Force has confirmed its selection of the Saab Gripen E/F as its future multi-role fighter, with Saab and the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) set to proceed with the procurement process. This decision includes not only the aircraft but also a long-term offset package aimed at boosting Thailand’s national security and creating new jobs and investments. While no contract has yet been signed, the selection marks a significant step in Thailand’s ongoing air force modernization efforts.

(PRESS RELEASE) STOCKHOLM, 4-Jun-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — The Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) has officially confirmed its selection of the Saab Gripen E/F as its future multi-role fighter. Saab, alongside the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV), will now proceed with the next stages in the procurement process with the Kingdom of Thailand.

While a contract has not yet been signed, nor an official order received, this announcement marks an important step in Thailand’s efforts to modernize its air capabilities.

Saab’s proposal includes not only the Gripen E/F fighter aircraft and associated equipment but also a comprehensive long-term offset package. This package is designed to enhance Thailand’s national security and strategic independence while generating new jobs and investments across multiple sectors of Thai society. The specific details of the offset package are still under discussion.

Micael Johansson, President and CEO of Saab, commented: “We are honored by the Royal Thai Air Force’s selection of Gripen E/F as its future fighter. This decision strengthens Thailand’s airpower capabilities for the future and contributes significantly to the nation’s security. We are excited to move forward with the next steps of this important procurement process.”

Since 2011, Thailand has operated the Saab Gripen C/D, and this new generation of Gripen aircraft will further enhance the Royal Thai Air Force’s operational capabilities.

Saab is a leading defence and security company with an enduring mission, to help nations keep their people and society safe. Empowered by its 25,000 talented people, Saab constantly pushes the boundaries of technology to create a safer and more sustainable world. Saab designs, manufactures and maintains advanced systems in aeronautics, weapons, command and control, sensors and underwater systems. Saab is headquartered in Sweden. It has major operations all over the world and is part of the domestic defence capability of several nations.

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SOURCE: Saab