Why did Thailand choose the Gripen E/F and not the F-16 Block 70?
Thailand will become the second international operator of the Gripen E, after Brazil, and the first in Asia.
After a lengthy and detailed technical process—including highway takeoff and landing trials and a comparative evaluation against the F-16 Block 70/72—the Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) has officially selected the Saab Gripen E/F as its future multirole fighter to replace its aging F-16A/B Fighting Falcons. The announcement, made at a press conference led by the RTAF Commander-in-Chief, entails not only the acquisition of a dozen next-generation aircraft but also a deep technology transfer and an extensive multisectoral offset program.
Although the contract has yet to be signed, Saab and the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) have already begun formal steps toward a definitive agreement with the Kingdom of Thailand.
“Gripen E/F is the best solution to provide Thailand with an independent and effective air capability against current and future threats,”
said Micael Johansson, President and CEO of Saab.
Doctrinal continuity and operational adaptation
The new Gripen E/F squadron will replace the F-16s of Squadron 102, which have been in service for over 37 years. The RTAF emphasized that the selected platform had to outperform the current fighters, ensure operational continuity with existing systems, and enable future joint interoperability. The Gripen E/F meets these requirements, benefiting from Thailand’s previous experience with Gripen C/D aircraft, in service since 2011 alongside a Saab 340 AEW&C and a dedicated command and control system.
Of particular interest to the RTAF is the Gripen’s ability to operate from highway segments—a capability designed for high-intensity conflict scenarios in which air bases would be primary targets. The Gripen E can land in just 500 meters and take off in only 400, with frontline maintenance that can be performed by small teams on improvised runways. This feature is key to ensuring operational continuity in the face of preventive attacks.
MIDSR: A selection framework beyond the aircraft
The RTAF structured its acquisition approach under the MIDSR framework, which includes:
- M (Main Package): Acquisition of 12 Gripen E/F fighters with Meteor missiles and full upgrade of the Saab AEW&C system.
- I (Indirect Offsets): Seven indirect initiatives with multisectoral impact.
- D (Direct Offsets): Seven initiatives for direct transfer of technology and capabilities.
- S (Synchronization): Coordinated planning across all three phases of the program.
- R (Risk Management): Risk mitigation and management scheme to ensure efficiency and transparency.
A key pillar of this comprehensive MIDSR selection concept is the offset package offered by Saab and Lockheed Martin. The Swedish proposal emerged as the winner thanks to its broad industrial, educational, technological, and economic compensation plan designed to strengthen Thailand’s strategic independence. Highlights include:
- Technology transfer and IPR of the Link T air defense system to enable future joint operations
- Foreign direct investment (FDI) in multiple Thai industrial sectors
- Education and skilling programs: vocational training, expert instruction, and language proficiency courses
- Complete upgrade of the AEW&C system, with expanded local industrial participation
- New projects in food, agriculture, and forestry to enhance quality and competitiveness
- University cooperation and scholarships, including international R&D partnerships and high-level grants
- Increased Gripen maintenance and support capabilities via local transfer of know-how
- Establishment of an Innovation Centre using Sweden’s “Triple Helix” model (academia–industry–state)
- Integration of Thai companies into the Gripen global supply chain
- Advanced cyber training, including Cyber Range simulation and operational capabilities
This comprehensive package reinforces the RTAF’s vision of advancing toward sustainable technological autonomy.
United States failed to reverse the decision
Washington attempted to sway the outcome by offering a 30% reduction in interest rates for the purchase of the F-16 Block 70/72. However, the Thai government made it clear that it does not incur foreign debt for defense acquisitions, which diminished the competitiveness of the U.S. offer, despite certain advantages of the F-16—such as a broader weapons payload.
The confirmation of the Gripen E/F selection also signals a reaffirmation of Thailand’s strategic autonomy. In this context, Saab’s broad offset package and comprehensive program approach appear to have been decisive.
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