Armed Thai Gripen C/D Showcased at 2025 Air Show Following Acquisition of Latest Version of Fighter Jet
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On December 12, 2024, the Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) inaugurated the 2025 Tactical Air Operations Test and Evaluation at the Chai Badan Air Weapons Range in Lopburi Province. One of the most notable moments of the event was the rare display of a fully armed Gripen C/D fighter jet, showcasing the strategic capabilities and operational potential of the Thai Air Force.
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A Saab JAS-39 Gripen C operated by the Royal Thai Air Force (Picture source: Saab)
The Gripen C/D, a central asset of the RTAF’s current fleet, was presented in an armed configuration that included 500-pound Mk82 general-purpose bombs and CRV7 and Mk66 (Hydra 70) air-to-surface missiles. Additionally, locally developed technologies, such as Formula 1 fire-suppression agents, were integrated into the demonstration, emphasizing the incorporation of domestic innovations into RTAF operations. However, this display occurred against a backdrop of transition, as the Gripen C/D continues to serve alongside aging aircraft like the F-16A/B and Alpha Jet, which are nearing decommissioning.
Addressing the urgent need for modernization, Thailand announced in August 2024 the selection of the Gripen E to replace the Gripen C/D and aging F-16s. This new fighter, building on the success of its predecessors, introduces cutting-edge technologies that significantly enhance the RTAF’s operational capabilities.
The Gripen E features the ES-05 “Raven” radar with AESA technology, enabling a 200-degree scanning range facilitated by the SWASHPLATE system. This advancement not only broadens detection coverage but also allows for simultaneous engagement of targets at unconventional angles. Additionally, the Skyward-G infrared search and track (IRST) sensor provides passive detection capabilities, enhancing surveillance and tracking while maintaining stealth. The fighter also incorporates the MAW-300 electronic warfare system, compatible with Saab’s advanced BOH/BOL countermeasure dispensers, alongside fully modernized avionics with a customizable large-screen cockpit tailored to mission-specific requirements.
Operationally, the Gripen E benefits from integrated data fusion in a network-centric warfare (NCW) environment. This system connects internal sensors (Raven radar, IRST, EW300) with external inputs and Link16, enabling real-time decision-making and improved battlefield efficiency.
The acquisition of the Gripen E/F, valued at 19 billion baht for the initial phase of four aircraft, is part of a broader strategy to modernize the RTAF while strengthening Thailand’s defense industry. This program includes an offset agreement to ensure technology transfer and industrial investment, aiming to enhance the country’s self-reliance in defense manufacturing.
Geopolitical considerations have also influenced the decision, including escalating civil conflict in neighboring Myanmar, which has increased the need for heightened border surveillance. This context has accelerated discussions and highlighted the necessity for advanced fighters capable of addressing evolving security challenges.
While the Gripen C/D was the centerpiece of the event, the demonstration also included other operational aircraft. Among them was the Beechcraft AT-6TH Wolverine from Squadron 411, presented in a reconnaissance configuration without live weapons. This aircraft showcased its potential for reconnaissance and attack missions. Squadron 411 is set to receive a total of eight AT-6THs by February 2025, with initial operational capability (IOC) expected shortly thereafter.
Other aging aircraft, such as the F-16A/B from Squadron 103, the F-5E/F TH from Squadron 211, and the Alpha Jet from Squadron 231, were also part of the demonstration. Their continued service underscores the need for timely fleet renewal to meet growing defense and security demands.
The spectacular appearance of the Gripen C/D at the 2025 Tactical Air Operations Test and Evaluation, combined with the forthcoming introduction of the Gripen E, underscores Thailand’s commitment to strategically modernizing its air fleet. This dual focus on showcasing current capabilities and preparing for the future reflects a clear objective to maintain regional air superiority while fostering technological and industrial development at a national level.
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On December 12, 2024, the Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) inaugurated the 2025 Tactical Air Operations Test and Evaluation at the Chai Badan Air Weapons Range in Lopburi Province. One of the most notable moments of the event was the rare display of a fully armed Gripen C/D fighter jet, showcasing the strategic capabilities and operational potential of the Thai Air Force.
A Saab JAS-39 Gripen C operated by the Royal Thai Air Force (Picture source: Saab)
The Gripen C/D, a central asset of the RTAF’s current fleet, was presented in an armed configuration that included 500-pound Mk82 general-purpose bombs and CRV7 and Mk66 (Hydra 70) air-to-surface missiles. Additionally, locally developed technologies, such as Formula 1 fire-suppression agents, were integrated into the demonstration, emphasizing the incorporation of domestic innovations into RTAF operations. However, this display occurred against a backdrop of transition, as the Gripen C/D continues to serve alongside aging aircraft like the F-16A/B and Alpha Jet, which are nearing decommissioning.
Addressing the urgent need for modernization, Thailand announced in August 2024 the selection of the Gripen E to replace the Gripen C/D and aging F-16s. This new fighter, building on the success of its predecessors, introduces cutting-edge technologies that significantly enhance the RTAF’s operational capabilities.
The Gripen E features the ES-05 “Raven” radar with AESA technology, enabling a 200-degree scanning range facilitated by the SWASHPLATE system. This advancement not only broadens detection coverage but also allows for simultaneous engagement of targets at unconventional angles. Additionally, the Skyward-G infrared search and track (IRST) sensor provides passive detection capabilities, enhancing surveillance and tracking while maintaining stealth. The fighter also incorporates the MAW-300 electronic warfare system, compatible with Saab’s advanced BOH/BOL countermeasure dispensers, alongside fully modernized avionics with a customizable large-screen cockpit tailored to mission-specific requirements.
Operationally, the Gripen E benefits from integrated data fusion in a network-centric warfare (NCW) environment. This system connects internal sensors (Raven radar, IRST, EW300) with external inputs and Link16, enabling real-time decision-making and improved battlefield efficiency.
The acquisition of the Gripen E/F, valued at 19 billion baht for the initial phase of four aircraft, is part of a broader strategy to modernize the RTAF while strengthening Thailand’s defense industry. This program includes an offset agreement to ensure technology transfer and industrial investment, aiming to enhance the country’s self-reliance in defense manufacturing.
Geopolitical considerations have also influenced the decision, including escalating civil conflict in neighboring Myanmar, which has increased the need for heightened border surveillance. This context has accelerated discussions and highlighted the necessity for advanced fighters capable of addressing evolving security challenges.
While the Gripen C/D was the centerpiece of the event, the demonstration also included other operational aircraft. Among them was the Beechcraft AT-6TH Wolverine from Squadron 411, presented in a reconnaissance configuration without live weapons. This aircraft showcased its potential for reconnaissance and attack missions. Squadron 411 is set to receive a total of eight AT-6THs by February 2025, with initial operational capability (IOC) expected shortly thereafter.
Other aging aircraft, such as the F-16A/B from Squadron 103, the F-5E/F TH from Squadron 211, and the Alpha Jet from Squadron 231, were also part of the demonstration. Their continued service underscores the need for timely fleet renewal to meet growing defense and security demands.
The spectacular appearance of the Gripen C/D at the 2025 Tactical Air Operations Test and Evaluation, combined with the forthcoming introduction of the Gripen E, underscores Thailand’s commitment to strategically modernizing its air fleet. This dual focus on showcasing current capabilities and preparing for the future reflects a clear objective to maintain regional air superiority while fostering technological and industrial development at a national level.
