Thai Air Force Checks Gripen Jets in Sweden

The Royal Thai Air Force has visited Sweden to review progress on its Gripen E/F fighter jet procurement programme, as the first aircraft enters the production line to replace ageing F-16 jets based in Nakhon Ratchasima.

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On 13 May 2026, Air Chief Marshal Seksan Kantha, Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Air Force and chairman of the Thai-Swedish government joint project committee, led a delegation to Stockholm for talks with the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV). The meeting focused on monitoring progress of the first phase of the Gripen E/F procurement programme and strengthening future defence cooperation between Thailand and Sweden.

The Thai delegation also met Ms Eva Hagwall, FMV Deputy Director General, as part of discussions linked to the procurement agreement signed between the two governments. The project forms part of Thailand’s long-term plan to modernise its air combat fleet and replace older F-16A/B aircraft stationed at Wing 1 in Nakhon Ratchasima province.

Thailand signed the first procurement contract for four Gripen E/F fighter jets in August 2025 under the programme known as “Peace Burapha 1”. The deal, worth 19.5 billion baht, was signed with FMV and Swedish defence company Saab.

The first phase of the programme covers the 2025-2029 budget period, with deliveries scheduled to begin in 2029. A second phase is planned for the 2028 fiscal year and will include the purchase of four additional aircraft. The overall programme aims to procure a full squadron of 12 Gripen E/F fighter jets.

Reports indicate that the first Gripen E/F aircraft ordered by Thailand has now officially entered production at Saab’s facility in Linkoping, Sweden. The development marks a key milestone in the programme as Thailand moves ahead with plans to modernise its air force capabilities.

The procurement project comes as the Royal Thai Air Force continues to monitor regional security developments and maintain operational readiness. In recent months, Thai F-16 aircraft have been deployed on patrol and airspace protection missions near the Myanmar border following reports of armed conflict close to Thai territory.

Amarin reported that defence observers say the Gripen E/F programme will play a significant role in the future structure of Thailand’s air combat capability, although deliveries remain several years away. Further updates on production progress and delivery schedules are expected as the project advances towards the planned 2029 handover.

Picture courtesy of Amarin

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Adapted by ASEAN Now Amarin 14 May 2026