Thai cabinet approves Gripen fighter jets purchase

Thai cabinet approves Gripen fighter jets purchase

The Thai cabinet has approved a deal to purchase 12 Swedish Gripen fighter jets, marking a significant milestone in the country's modernization efforts. The decision comes amidst ongoing regional tensions and a recent border conflict with Cambodia, where the Royal Thai Air Force deployed Gripen jets for the first time in combat operations.

Thailand's acting Minister of Defence, Nattapol Nakpanit, has firmly denied reports that Sweden had suspended the high-profile Gripen fighter jet deal. The deal, worth ฿19.5 billion or approximately US$596 million, aims to modernize the country's air force and boost its aeronautics industry. Despite the recent use of Gripen jets in combat, Swedish officials have maintained that the deal remains active but is subject to a strict review by Sweden’s Non-Proliferation and Export Controls agency (ISP) [1].

The Gripen jets, manufactured by Saab, are part of a larger defense tech package that includes Swedish arms. Thailand currently operates 12 Gripen C/D jets and is in the midst of negotiations to purchase additional Gripen aircraft. The recent conflict with Cambodia, which involved the use of Chinese-made BM-21 rocket launchers and Russian BMP-3 tanks, highlighted the deep arms proliferation in Southeast Asia [2].

The decision to approve the Gripen jets purchase underscores Thailand's commitment to modernizing its military capabilities. However, the ongoing review by the Swedish agency may delay the finalization of the deal. The review process is designed to ensure compliance with Sweden's strict arms control policies, which include a comprehensive assessment of each export case based on the prevailing situation [1].

The purchase of Gripen jets also reflects Thailand's strategic shift in defense procurement. The country has been exploring alternative sources for advanced military hardware, given the shifting regional alliances and human rights concerns that have affected its relations with traditional allies like the United States [2].

The approval of the Gripen jets deal comes as Thailand seeks to fortify its military capabilities in the face of evolving regional dynamics. The recent conflict with Cambodia, which involved the deployment of advanced weaponry from multiple suppliers, underscores the need for Thailand to maintain a robust and modern defense force [2].

References:
[1] https://www.marketscreener.com/news/thailand-s-air-force-confirms-gripen-jets-used-in-attacks-on-cambodia-ce7c5fd9dc8df42c
[2] https://www.thaiexaminer.com/thai-news-foreigners/2025/08/02/swedish-nonproliferation-and-export-control-agency-reviewing-thailands-gripen-jets-deal-no-suspension/