Thailand Chooses Swedish Gripens After US F-35 Rejection

Thailand opts for Swedish Gripen fighter jets after US F-35 rejection. BANGKOK, June 6, 2025 - In a significant development, Thailand's Royal Thai Air Force announced plans to acquire 12 JAS 39 Gripen E and F fighter jets from Sweden's Saab. This decision follows the US's refusal to sell F-35s to Thailand in 2023, citing concerns over training and maintenance. Air Chief Marshal Pun Pakdee Pantanakul stated the purchase aims to replace aging American-made aircraft used since the late 1980s. The acquisition will be phased over 10 years, with the first phase (2025-2029) involving four jets at an estimated cost of 19.5 billion baht (approximately 2.6 billion ringgit). The proposal will be presented to the Thai cabinet for approval in July. Saab has welcomed the decision, emphasizing the Gripen's advanced capabilities. This move reflects Thailand's strategy to diversify its defense equipment sources and reduce dependence on a single supplier.