F-16 Block 70/72 vs Gripen E/F: the models Thailand is studying for a new fighter squadron

The Royal Thai Air Force needs to start replacing its aging F-16 A/B, for which it is evaluating the U.S. proposal for the F-16 Block 70/72 and the Swedish proposal for the Gripen E/F model.

Ads

According to The Bangkok Post, the Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) will present its future development plan, which includes a proposal to acquire a squadron of 12 fighters, at the RTAF Symposium 2024 to be held next month.

The proposed plan seeks to adapt to changing needs with respect to new technological, doctrinal (such as the massive irruption of drones on the battlefield), and budgetary paradigms.

The proposal includes the purchase of a new fleet of fighter aircraft to replace the aging F-16 A/B, which will be retired from service in 2028. The acquisition plan will be divided into three phrases, the first starting in fiscal year 2025, which begins in October, and includes the purchase of the first four fighters.

The RTAF technical committee is evaluating the most modern production version of the mythical F-16, the Block 70/72, and the Saab Gripen. According to Thai newspaper sources, the Swedish product may end up being the recommended choice, as this model (C and D versions) has been deployed for more than 12 years in the 7 Wing, based in Surat Thani.

Ads