The Cambodian media outlet, Kampuchea Thmey Daily, has cautioned that Sweden’s international reputation as a promoter of peace could be at risk if it proceeds with selling additional Gripen fighter jets to Thailand.
In a report the media outlet argued that Sweden’s long-standing image in Europe as a supporter of peace and human rights would be undermined by the sale. The outlet claimed that Swedish-made Gripen C/D jets had been deployed by Thailand during armed clashes with Cambodia in 24-28 August 2025 alongside U.S.-made F-16 aircraft, to strike cultural heritage sites and civilian areas.
Thailand currently operates 11 Gripen C/D jets purchased in 2008 and delivered in 2011. On Tuesday, the Thai cabinet approved the procurement of four new Gripen E/F jets from Sweden at a value of 19.5 billion baht, as part of a longer-term plan to acquire 12 by 2029.
The Cambodian report warned that Thai commanders could face war crimes charges if airstrikes were ordered against civilian and cultural targets, which are prohibited under international law.
