10-7-2024 (BANGKOK) The Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) is reportedly leaning towards the procurement of Swedish-made Gripen fighter jets over their American counterparts, the F-16s. This revelation comes from a high-ranking source within the air force, marking a potential shift in Thailand’s defence partnerships.
Air Chief Marshal Phanphakdee Phattanakul, the RTAF commander, has reportedly forwarded comprehensive details comparing the Gripen E/F and F-16 Block 70 jets to Defence Minister Sutin Klungsang and Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin. According to the source, ACM Phanphakdee has recommended the Swedish aircraft as the preferred choice.
The decision-making process entered a crucial phase on Wednesday when ACM Phanphakdee, along with other top military brass, presented their spending plans to the House committee overseeing the budget bill for the 2025 fiscal year, set to commence on 1 October.
When questioned about the progress of the jet fighter procurement plan, ACM Phanphakdee disclosed that he had engaged in discussions with Mr Sutin on Tuesday. During this meeting, the air force commander elucidated the selection process and outlined the advantages and disadvantages of both the Gripen and the F-16. This included detailing the additional support the RTAF would receive from their respective manufacturers, Saab AB and Lockheed Martin.
According to ACM Phanphakdee, the minister is expected to relay this information to the prime minister. Once a final decision is reached, it will be at the discretion of the prime minister to determine whether he or Mr Sutin will make the public announcement.
Despite these developments, the air force chief maintained that a definitive choice has yet to be made, stating, “The air force has yet to conclude which type of jet fighters it would choose.”
The RTAF’s procurement plan aims to replace 12 ageing F-16s in its current fleet over the coming years. Both Swedish and American officials have been actively lobbying for their respective aircraft to be chosen.
Adding another layer to this complex decision is the reported preparation of Mr Sutin for a visit to the United States, following an invitation from US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin. This visit comes in the wake of a briefing Mr Sutin received from the US ambassador regarding a loan proposal to facilitate the acquisition of more F-16s. However, the defence minister expressed concerns about the high interest rates associated with this proposal.
