Summary and Key Points: The Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) has selected the Saab JAS 39 Gripen E to replace its aging fleet of F-16A/B fighters, beating out Lockheed Martin's F-16 Fighting Falcon.
-The RTAF will receive 12 to 14 Gripen Es in batches over the coming years, contingent on government budget approvals.
-This decision follows Bangkok's previous acquisition of Gripens in 2007 and 2010. The Swedish-built fighter's suitability for Thailand's climate and operational needs played a key role in the selection.