On February 7, 2025, Thai Aviation Industries (TAI) and Sweden’s Saab AB signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to enhance industrial collaboration in support of the Royal Thai Air Force’s (RTAF) Gripen E/F fighter jets. The signing ceremony took place at TAI’s headquarters in Bangkok, Thailand.
The MOU outlines several key areas of cooperation:
-
Maintenance and Logistics Support: TAI will provide maintenance and logistical services for the RTAF’s Saab 340 aircraft and the upcoming Gripen E/F fighters.
-
Component Overhaul Capabilities: The agreement aims to enhance TAI’s ability to perform overhauls on major aircraft components within Thailand, benefiting both the RTAF and the Royal Thai Navy.
-
Technical Data Link and Command and Control Systems: TAI will develop capabilities in Tactical Data Links (TDL) and Command and Control (C2) systems, crucial for modern military operations.
This collaboration aligns with Thailand’s offset policy and commitment to technology transfer, aiming to bolster the nation’s aerospace and defense industries.
The RTAF has expressed its intention to procure 12 Gripen E/F fighters to replace the aging F-16A/B ADF aircraft of the 102nd Squadron, Wing 1, Korat. The initial phase involves acquiring four aircraft at an estimated cost of 19 billion baht (approximately $539 million), with a proposed contract signing around June 2025 and deliveries expected by 2029.
This MOU between TAI and Saab marks a significant step forward in strengthening Thailand’s defense capabilities and industrial self-reliance.
Source: AAG_th Daily Record
