Bangkok, August 26th, 2025– The Swedish Embassy in Bangkok announced on Tuesday that Sweden and Thailand have upgraded their longstanding partnership to a strategic level, just hours after the Thai government finalized a major procurement contract for advanced Gripen fighter jets from Swedish manufacturer Saab.
The announcement came on August 26th, following Thai Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa’s official visit to Sweden earlier in the week, where key documents formalizing the strategic partnership were signed. The partnership aims to enhance teamwork in areas such as defense technology, innovation, sustainable development, green energy, and trade, aligning with Sweden’s strategy for global competitiveness in Asia and Thailand’s push for economic modernization.
At the heart of this development is Thailand’s acquisition of four Saab JAS 39 Gripen E/F multirole fighter jets, valued at approximately 19.5 billion baht (about $556 million USD). The contract, signed under a government-to-government agreement on August 25th, marks the first phase of a broader plan to procure up to 12 such aircraft by 2034-2035, with deliveries expected to begin in 2029. The initial batch includes three single-seat Gripen E models and one two-seat Gripen F, equipped with cutting-edge features like the Raven ES-05 Active Electronically Scanned Array (AESA) radar, advanced electronic warfare systems, infrared search and track capabilities, and compatibility with long-range Meteor beyond-visual-range missiles.
This procurement is part of the Royal Thai Air Force’s (RTAF) long-term modernization strategy to replace its aging fleet of U.S.-made F-16 fighters, some of which have been operational since the late 1980s and are slated for retirement between 2028 and 2035.
Thailand already operates 11 Gripen C/D variants, acquired in a 2008 deal worth $1.1 billion, making it one of Saab’s biggest customers in Asia. The new jets will be based at Wing 1 in Nakhon Ratchasima, enhancing Thailand’s air defense capabilities amid regional tensions, including a recent border skirmish with Cambodia in July where older Gripens were used in combat for the first time—marking the aircraft’s global combat debut.
The decision to opt for the Gripen over competing offers, such as upgraded U.S. F-16 Block 70/72 jets, reflects Thailand’s strategic shift toward diversified defense partnerships. In 2023, the U.S. denied Thailand’s request for F-35 stealth fighters, citing infrastructure concerns and geopolitical sensitivities related to Bangkok’s growing ties with China.
Thai officials, including RTAF Commander Air Chief Marshal Punpakdee Pattanakul, discussed the Gripen’s cost-effectiveness, operational flexibility, and ability to operate from short runways or even highways—demonstrated in recent RTAF exercises. The deal also includes a comprehensive offset package valued at over 100 billion baht (154% of the contract value), featuring technology transfers like the Link-T tactical data link system, personnel training, and investments in Thailand’s domestic defense industry, which could create jobs and foster local innovation.
Sweden’s rigorous arms export policies, overseen by the Inspectorate for Strategic Products (ISP), had raised brief concerns earlier this year following the Cambodia incident, with rumors of potential delays. However, both governments confirmed the process remained on track, highlighting the jets’ defensive use in line with international law. Saab CEO Micael Johansson welcomed the deal, stating it would “provide Thailand with independent airpower for the future, contributing majorly to the nation’s safety and security.”
The strategic partnership extends beyond defense, encompassing economic ties that saw bilateral trade reach approximately $2.5 billion in 2024, with Sweden exporting machinery, vehicles, and pharmaceuticals while importing Thai electronics and food products.
Over 100 Swedish companies operate in Thailand, and more than 200,000 Swedish tourists visit annually, injecting billions of baht into the economy. Discussions during Minister Sangiampongsa’s visit also touched on supporting Thailand’s OECD accession bid, accelerating Thailand-EU Free Trade Agreement negotiations (with five rounds completed and a target conclusion by year’s end), and joint initiatives in sustainable forestry and digital transformation.
Even government opposition figures in Thailand, such as People’s Party leader Natthaphong Ruengpanyawut, have voiced support for the procurement, provided it aligns with transparent budgeting and strategic needs. As Thailand navigates its role as a non-aligned power in Southeast Asia—balancing relations with the U.S., China, and ASEAN neighbors—this partnership with Sweden positions it as a bridge for European technology and investment in the region.
Analysts view the upgrade as a win-win: Sweden gains a foothold in a key Asian market amid its NATO membership and export growth (Saab’s shares rose 3% post-announcement), while Thailand improves its autonomy in an era of rising geopolitical uncertainties.
For the original version of this article, please visit The Pattaya News.
