Sky’s the limit: Royal Thai Air Force gears up with plans for 12 sleek new fighter jets

The Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) announced plans for significant advancement, including the procurement of 12 new fighter jets. The development plan will be presented in detail at the RTAF Symposium 2024 next month.

Phanpakdee Pattanakul, the Commander-in-chief, laid out RTAF plans, which involve not only the acquisition of new weapons and equipment but also the improvement of existing maintenance projects. He acknowledged that the plan could be adapted according to shifting needs, budget restrictions, and evolving technological trends, especially with the increasing use of drones in military operations. The symposium is slated for February 29.

The proposal outlines the acquisition of a new squadron to replace the ageing F-16 jets, which will be decommissioned in 2028. This procurement plan will be implemented in three stages, the first of which is set to start in the fiscal year of 2025 commencing in October.

A source from the RTAF revealed that the first phase, involving the acquisition of four jet fighters at an estimated cost of 19 billion baht, has been proposed to the Defence Ministry and will be presented to the Cabinet. The specific model of the jet fighter to be procured remains undefined, with the decision pending the technical committee’s review. The proposal seeks the Cabinet’s approval for the procurement plan and the necessary budget in principle.

The technical committee is considering the US F16 block 70/72 and the Swedish-made Gripen. The latter may be favoured as it has been operational at the Surat Thani-based Wing 7 for over 12 years, the source added.

While justifying the need for these jet fighters, ACM Phanpakdee expressed his optimism about public support for the procurement scheme. He also highlighted the RTAF’s ongoing collaboration with the Defence Technology Institute and various universities to develop the nation’s defence industry.

Sustainable development

Furthermore, ACM Phanpakdee emphasised the importance of research and development in his keynote speech at the RTAF Tech Talk 2024 seminar held at the RTAF museum. This seminar was attended by various security stakeholders. He stressed that R&D ensures sustainable development and lessens the dependence on imported weapons and equipment.

He disclosed that the RTAF has been involved in R&D for decades and the results have efficiently supported its missions. To realise its vision of being unbeatable, the RTAF requires collaboration and support from all stakeholders.

The seminar saw participation from representatives of the National Research Council of Thailand, DTI, and the Defence Science and Technology Department under the Defence Ministry, reported Bangkok Post.