The Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) appears to be favoring the Saab Gripen E/F fighter jet in its upcoming procurement program to replace its aging fleet of F-16s, according to the Bangkok Post.
On Jul. 10th, ACM Phanphakdee presented the RTAF’s spending plans for the 2025 fiscal year to a parliamentary committee. He has also reportedly submitted a comparison report on the Gripen E/F and the U.S.-made F-16 Block 70 to Defense Minister Sutin Klungsang. The report included a recommendation from the Air Force chief to choose the Swedish Gripen.
ACM Phanphakdee has acknowledge that he met Mr. Sutin on Jul. 9th to discuss the new jet fighter procurement plan.
The Defense Minister is reportedly scheduled to visit the United States at the invitation of US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin and has been briefed on a loan proposal to facilitate the acquisition of new F-16s. However, the high interest rate attached to the loan might be a disadvantage for the Lockheed Martin F-16 Block 70 fighter.
The Defense Minister will analyze the report and forward it to the Prime Minister, who will decide on the public announcement of the chosen aircraft.
While the Air Force Commander seems to favor the Gripen, the final decision on the fighter jet procurement program rests with the Thai government. The high interest rate on the U.S. loan offer could further tilt the scales towards the Gripen.
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