The Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) has a rich history of combat aircraft procurement, showcasing Thailand’s efforts to stay competitive in the region and adapt to changes with various global powers. From purchasing Avro 504s from Britain in 1930 to acquiring Nakajima Ki-43 from Japan during World War II, the RTAF has continuously evolved its fleet.
During the Cold War, Thailand aligned closely with the US, acquiring most of its military aircraft from there. The F-5A Freedom Fighters supplied during the Vietnam War remained the backbone of RTAF fighter aircraft until the introduction of Lockheed-Martin F-16s in 1988. However, bureaucratic issues and funding constraints have led to the continued use of both aircraft types in 2024.
In a bid to diversify its sources, Thailand purchased 12 Sukhoi SU-30 jets from Russia in 2005, and later explored SAAB JAS-39 Gripens from Sweden after facing difficulties with US defense help. While senior RTAF officers favored the F-16s due to familiarity, the younger officers found the Gripen more appealing for its advanced features.
The Royal Thai Air Force’s Gripen aircraft perform at an air show in Bangkok in March 2013. Photo: EPA