The Royal Thai Air Force said on Tuesday that it has opted to purchase SAAB Gripen fighter jets instead of US-built F-16s, to begin replacing the outdated F-16s that will soon be decommissioned.

According to Air Force spokesperson Cmdr Phanphakdee Phattanakul, a selection committee made the choice after reviewing further information provided by Lockheed Martin and Swedish aerospace company Saab.

According to Cmdr Phanphakdee, the majority of the information covered “offsets,” such training and technology transfer, which the Royal Thai Air Force has been placing more attention on while doing procurement.

The procurement now awaits final approval by the new defence minister and the cabinet, which is expected to be formed in the next few days following Paetongtarn Shinawatra being elected Prime Minister.

Cmdr. Phanphakdee said the new Saab JAS 39 Gripen fighter jets would play an important role in developing the capacity of the air force.

The Gripen JAS 39 Fighter

The JAS 39 Gripen is a multi-role fighter built by Swedish manufacturer SAAB Military Aircraft. The aircraft, which made its debut in 1996, is among the most efficient and competent fighters available.

The most recent type, the Gripen 39F, is one of seven variations that the SAAB has produced over 300 units of in the last 28 years. The fighter Jet is in operation in more than six nations and is well-liked throughout the world.