RTAF Commander ACM Panpakdee Pattanakul confirmed that both companies have submitted their final proposals, which include offset policies in line with Thai government requirements. Two panels have been established to thoroughly review the proposals, and their conclusions will be pivotal in the final decision-making process.
Sources close to the matter suggest that the RTAF’s main procurement committee is leaning towards the Gripen. This aligns with earlier indications from the selection committee, which had previously expressed a preference for the Swedish jets. In July, a study by the air force’s procurement committee also identified the Gripen as the most suitable option for the RTAF’s needs.
“I can confirm that the Thai Air Force have communicated their wish to purchase the Gripen fighter jets in the future,” a Saab spokesperson told Reuters.
As part of its offer, Saab has proposed several incentives, including access to its tactical data link technology, which the RTAF plans to develop further into its own system, known as Link T. Additionally, Sweden has offered to upgrade the air force’s 340 AEW air security surveillance radar system free of charge, a service that would otherwise cost around five billion baht.
On Tuesday, the RTAF confirmed its intent to acquire Gripen 39 fighter jets, citing their compatibility with the military’s strategic requirements. The RTAF has already requested a budget of 19 billion baht (approximately $560 million) for the 2025 fiscal year to fund the purchase of four new fighter jets, as part of a broader plan to acquire a total of 12 new jets by 2034.
Sources: Bangok Post, Reuters.