The decision by the Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) to pursue the acquisition of Saab’s Gripen E/F fighter jets marks a critical juncture in the military aviation strategy of Thailand. This move, while still pending formal approval and contractual finalization, underscores a significant shift in the country’s defense policy and highlights its commitment to maintaining a capable and modern air force in a region marked by increasing geopolitical complexities.
This article provides an in-depth analysis of the RTAF’s decision to select the Gripen E/F, examining the historical context, the technical capabilities of the aircraft, the strategic implications of this acquisition, and the broader impact on Thailand’s international relations. Additionally, this analysis explores the potential future developments in Thailand’s defense procurement and the role of the Gripen E/F in the evolving security landscape of Southeast Asia.
Historical Context and the Evolution of Thailand’s Air Force
The Royal Thai Air Force has a long history of modernization efforts aimed at maintaining a capable and versatile air defense force. Over the decades, Thailand has navigated a complex geopolitical landscape, balancing relationships with major powers such as the United States and China. This balancing act has significantly influenced its defense procurement strategies, including the selection of fighter jets that meet both operational requirements and diplomatic considerations.
Thailand’s air force modernization can be traced back to the Cold War era when it relied heavily on American military equipment and training. The close ties between the United States and Thailand during this period resulted in the acquisition of various American-made aircraft, including the F-5 Tiger II and the F-16 Fighting Falcon. These aircraft formed the backbone of the RTAF’s air defense capabilities for several decades.
However, as regional dynamics evolved and Thailand sought to diversify its military partnerships, the RTAF began to explore options beyond American aircraft. This shift became evident in the late 2000s when Thailand became the first Southeast Asian country to acquire the Saab Gripen C/D, a decision that reflected both the technical merits of the aircraft and Thailand’s desire to reduce its dependence on U.S. military equipment.
The Saab Gripen C/D and Its Impact on the RTAF
The acquisition of the Saab Gripen C/D in 2008 and 2010 marked a significant milestone in the modernization of the RTAF. The Gripen C/D brought advanced capabilities to Thailand’s air force, including modern avionics, a multi-role capability, and integration with a sophisticated datalink system. The latter, known as Link-T, was part of a broader network-centric warfare strategy that Saab implemented in Thailand, which also included the Erieye airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) system.
The Gripen C/D quickly became a critical asset for the RTAF, offering superior performance in air-to-air and air-to-ground missions compared to the aging F-5 and F-16 fleets. The integration of the RBS 15 anti-ship missile further enhanced Thailand’s maritime strike capabilities, making the Gripen C/D a versatile platform capable of addressing a wide range of threats.
However, as the global security environment continued to evolve, so too did the requirements of the RTAF. The introduction of fifth-generation fighters, the growing importance of networked warfare, and the increasing sophistication of regional air forces all underscored the need for a next-generation fighter that could meet the challenges of the 21st century.
Image : Copyright Saab AB
The Decision to Acquire the Gripen E/F
Against this backdrop, the RTAF’s decision to pursue the acquisition of the Saab Gripen E/F was driven by several key factors. First and foremost, the Gripen E/F represents a significant technological leap over its predecessor, the Gripen C/D. With its advanced avionics, powerful radar, increased range, and enhanced electronic warfare capabilities, the Gripen E/F is designed to operate in highly contested environments where sophisticated air defenses and electronic warfare systems are prevalent.
The Gripen E/F’s AESA (Active Electronically Scanned Array) radar, in particular, provides a substantial improvement in detection and tracking capabilities, allowing the aircraft to engage multiple targets simultaneously and operate effectively in environments with heavy electronic interference. Additionally, the Gripen E/F is equipped with state-of-the-art electronic warfare systems that can detect, classify, and counter a wide range of threats, including enemy radar and missiles.
Another critical factor in the RTAF’s decision was the Gripen E/F’s compatibility with Thailand’s existing infrastructure and operational concepts. The RTAF has invested heavily in Saab’s network-centric warfare capabilities, including the Link-T datalink and the Erieye AEW&C system. The Gripen E/F’s seamless integration with these systems ensures that Thailand can maximize its operational effectiveness and maintain a high level of situational awareness across the entire battlespace.
Furthermore, the Gripen E/F offers a high degree of interoperability with other allied air forces, particularly those in Europe and Asia. This interoperability is crucial for Thailand as it seeks to maintain strong defense ties with its traditional allies while also engaging in multilateral exercises and operations in the region.
Technical Capabilities of the Gripen E/F
The Gripen E/F is a highly advanced multi-role fighter that incorporates the latest technology to ensure it remains relevant in modern and future combat scenarios. One of the standout features of the Gripen E/F is its engine, the General Electric F414-GE-39E, which provides increased thrust compared to the Gripen C/D’s engine. This improvement not only enhances the aircraft’s speed and climb rate but also allows it to carry a larger payload, including advanced weapons and sensors.
The Gripen E/F’s avionics suite is another area where the aircraft excels. The aircraft features a fully digital cockpit with large multi-function displays that provide the pilot with comprehensive situational awareness. The avionics are designed to be highly modular, allowing for easy upgrades and the integration of new systems as technology evolves. This modularity ensures that the Gripen E/F can remain at the cutting edge of technology throughout its service life.
In terms of armament, the Gripen E/F can carry a wide range of air-to-air and air-to-ground weapons, including the Meteor beyond-visual-range air-to-air missile (BVRAAM), the IRIS-T short-range air-to-air missile, and the GBU-39 Small Diameter Bomb (SDB). The aircraft is also equipped with a 27mm Mauser BK-27 cannon, which is effective against both air and ground targets.
One of the key advantages of the Gripen E/F is its low operating costs compared to other modern fighters. Saab has designed the Gripen E/F to be easy to maintain, with a high degree of systems automation and self-diagnosis. This ease of maintenance, combined with the aircraft’s relatively low fuel consumption, makes the Gripen E/F an economically attractive option for countries that require a high-performance fighter but need to keep operating costs under control.
Controlling the Electromagnetic Spectrum: Creating Air Dominance with the Gripen E’s State-of-the-Art Electronic Warfare System
The modern battlefield is no longer defined solely by physical space or conventional weapons. As technology advances, so too does the complexity of warfare. The electromagnetic spectrum, once considered a peripheral domain, is now at the forefront of military strategy. Controlling this spectrum has become synonymous with achieving air dominance, and few platforms exemplify this capability as effectively as the Gripen E fighter jet, equipped with a state-of-the-art Electronic Warfare (EW) system.
Image : Copyright Saab AB
The Evolution of Electronic Warfare
Electronic Warfare, a term that has evolved significantly over the decades, encompasses military actions that utilize electromagnetic (EM) and directed energy (DE) effectors. Initially, EW was primarily associated with simple techniques like jamming enemy radars and radio communications. However, as the nature of combat has evolved, so too has the role of EW. It has become an intricate discipline, vital to mission success and survivability in increasingly contested and dynamic environments.
In the context of fighter aircraft, Electronic Warfare is broadly categorized into three divisions: Electronic Protection (EP), Electronic Attack (EA), and Electronic Support (ES).
- Electronic Protection (EP): This division focuses on safeguarding personnel, equipment, and facilities from the adverse effects of hostile, neutral, or even friendly EW actions. EP also covers protection from naturally occurring phenomena that could degrade, neutralize, or destroy a combat unit’s operational capabilities.
- Electronic Attack (EA): This involves using EM energy, DE, or anti-radiation weapons to attack enemy personnel, equipment, or facilities with the intent of degrading, neutralizing, or destroying their fighting capabilities. EA is an offensive measure designed to disrupt and impair the enemy’s ability to function effectively in the battlefield.
- Electronic Support (ES): This division is dedicated to the search, interception, identification, and location of electromagnetic emitters. The primary goal is immediate threat recognition, which informs real-time targeting decisions and strategic planning for future operations.
The Modern Challenge: Agile Radar and Air Defense Systems
Today’s radar and air defense systems are far more agile and adaptive than those of the past. Utilizing advanced technologies, agile networking, and new operating methods, these systems present a complex and volatile signal environment for fighter pilots. This shift demands equally sophisticated EW capabilities to ensure mission success and pilot survivability.
The challenge lies not only in countering these advanced systems but also in anticipating and adapting to their ever-changing operational tactics. Traditional EW methods, while still relevant, are no longer sufficient to guarantee success in such a dynamic environment. The solution, as demonstrated by the Gripen E, lies in Network Enabled Warfare, where sensors and systems—both on-board and external—work in unison to execute EW missions in innovative ways.
Network Enabled Warfare and Human-Machine Collaboration
One of the most significant advancements in modern EW is the concept of Network Enabled Warfare. This approach involves the seamless integration and collaboration of multiple sensors and systems across different platforms, creating a network that is greater than the sum of its parts. For the Gripen E, this means that its on-board systems work in concert with other platforms, sharing information and coordinating actions to achieve a unified goal.
This networked approach enhances situational awareness, survivability, and mission success. By automating information exchange and leveraging highly evolved Human-Machine Collaboration (HMC), the Gripen E can process vast amounts of data in real-time, enabling the pilot to make informed decisions quickly. The result is a decisive information advantage, ensuring that the right course of action is taken at every moment during a mission.
The Gripen E’s EW system is designed to operate in this networked environment, offering unmatched capabilities in Electronic Protection, Electronic Attack, and Electronic Support.
Enhanced Electronic Protection and Combat Survivability
The Gripen E’s Electronic Warfare System provides comprehensive Electronic Protection through the use of cutting-edge technologies and applications. With full 360-degree spherical wide spectral coverage, each Gripen E is equipped with an electronic shield that ensures survivability in even the most contested environments.
This protection is not limited to a single system but is instead the result of a highly integrated network of sensors and countermeasures. The Radar Warning Receiver (RWR), Missile Approach Warning System (MAWS), BOL dispenser, and other passive and active countermeasures work together to detect and neutralize threats before they can pose a danger to the aircraft.
The system’s effectiveness is further enhanced by its ability to operate in highly agile and adaptive modes, responding to emerging threats with precision and speed. Whether facing advanced radar systems, guided missiles, or other electronic threats, the Gripen E’s EW system provides a robust defense that significantly increases the aircraft’s chances of survival.
Offensive Capabilities: Electronic Attack and Suppression of Enemy Defenses
While Electronic Protection is crucial for survivability, the Gripen E’s EW system is equally potent in its offensive capabilities. In Electronic Attack missions, the system utilizes a combination of internal and external jamming resources, tailored radar features, and air-launched decoys to disrupt and degrade enemy capabilities.
The primary objective of Electronic Attack is to impair the enemy’s ability to detect, track, and target friendly forces. By confusing and overwhelming enemy sensors and weapon systems, the Gripen E can effectively neutralize threats from a safe distance, reducing the risk to both the pilot and the aircraft.
One of the key components of the Gripen E’s Electronic Attack capability is its advanced Electronic Counter Measures (ECM) system. This system can suppress and degrade enemy sensors, rendering them ineffective in detecting or targeting the Gripen E. By doing so, the aircraft can operate with a significant tactical advantage, engaging targets with minimal risk of detection or retaliation.
Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition, and Reconnaissance (ISTAR) Capabilities
In addition to its defensive and offensive roles, the Gripen E’s EW system also provides critical support in Intelligence, Surveillance, Target Acquisition, and Reconnaissance (ISTAR) missions. By leveraging its AESA radar, RWR, and electronic signal measurement capabilities, the Gripen E can detect, identify, and locate all sources of radiated EM energy in the battlespace.
This information is invaluable for mission planning and execution, as it provides real-time intelligence on enemy positions, capabilities, and movements. The Gripen E’s ISTAR capabilities are not limited to its own operations but can also support allied forces, contributing to a broader strategic picture and enhancing the overall effectiveness of joint operations.
Continuous Evolution and Adaptability
The Gripen E’s EW system is built on an open architecture, allowing for rapid integration of new capabilities as they become available. This adaptability is essential in an era where threats evolve at an unprecedented pace, and technological advancements are a constant.
Through advanced software methods, techniques, and the functional partitioning of flight and mission-critical functionality, the Gripen E is designed to remain operationally relevant for decades to come. As new threats emerge and new technologies are developed, the Gripen E can quickly incorporate these advancements, ensuring that it remains at the cutting edge of Electronic Warfare.
Historical Context: A Legacy of Innovation
The Gripen E’s EW capabilities did not emerge in isolation; they are the result of decades of innovation and experience in the field of Electronic Warfare. Saab, the company behind the Gripen E, has a long history of pioneering EW technologies, dating back to the Cold War.
The first generation of Saab’s radar warning systems was installed on the Saab 32 Lansen more than 60 years ago. Since then, Saab has consistently invested in innovative technologies designed to detect, deceive, and counter threats in the smartest possible ways. This legacy of innovation is evident in the Gripen E, which represents the culmination of decades of research, development, and operational experience.
The Future of Air Dominance
As the nature of warfare continues to evolve, so too will the importance of controlling the electromagnetic spectrum. In this new era of conflict, air dominance will not be determined solely by the physical capabilities of aircraft but by their ability to operate effectively within the electromagnetic spectrum.
The Gripen E, with its advanced Electronic Warfare system, is uniquely positioned to achieve this dominance. By combining cutting-edge technology with a deep understanding of the electromagnetic spectrum, the Gripen E offers a comprehensive solution that addresses both current and future threats.
In conclusion, the Gripen E is not just a fighter jet; it is a platform for controlling the electromagnetic spectrum, ensuring air dominance in high-threat environments for decades to come. Through its state-of-the-art Electronic Warfare system, the Gripen E delivers a decisive combat capability that is unmatched in the modern battlefield, securing the future of air combat and the safety of those who depend on it.
Strategic Implications for Thailand
The acquisition of the Gripen E/F is not just a technical upgrade for the RTAF; it also has significant strategic implications for Thailand’s defense posture. The addition of the Gripen E/F to Thailand’s air force will enhance its ability to defend its airspace and project power in the region, particularly in the context of increasing military competition in Southeast Asia.
One of the primary strategic challenges facing Thailand is the growing military capabilities of its neighbors, particularly China and Vietnam. China, in particular, has invested heavily in modernizing its air force and navy, including the development of fifth-generation fighters and advanced surface-to-air missile systems. In response, Thailand has sought to enhance its own military capabilities to ensure it can deter potential threats and maintain its sovereignty.
The Gripen E/F’s advanced capabilities, particularly its ability to operate in contested environments, will provide Thailand with a credible deterrent against potential aggressors. The aircraft’s long-range sensors and weapons systems will allow the RTAF to detect and engage threats at greater distances, reducing the risk of surprise attacks and increasing the effectiveness of Thailand’s air defense network.
Furthermore, the Gripen E/F’s ability to integrate with Thailand’s existing network-centric warfare systems will enhance the overall effectiveness of the country’s military. The Link-T datalink, for example, allows the Gripen E/F to share real-time information with other RTAF aircraft, ground-based radar systems, and naval vessels. This level of integration ensures that Thailand’s military can operate as a cohesive and coordinated force, even in complex and dynamic combat environments.
Impact on International Relations
Thailand’s decision to acquire the Gripen E/F also has implications for its international relations, particularly with the United States and China. As mentioned earlier, Thailand has historically relied on American military equipment, but in recent years, it has sought to diversify its defense partnerships to reduce its dependence on any single country.
The acquisition of the Gripen E/F is a reflection of this strategy. While Thailand continues to maintain strong defense ties with the United States, it has also developed closer military relationships with other countries, including Sweden. The decision to acquire the Gripen E/F from Saab is a clear indication that Thailand values the flexibility and independence that comes with having multiple defense partners.
At the same time, Thailand’s relationship with China remains a key consideration in its defense strategy. While Thailand and China have engaged in joint military exercises and increased arms transfers in recent years, Thailand has been careful to avoid becoming too closely aligned with Beijing. The acquisition of the Gripen E/F, which is not subject to the same restrictions as U.S.-supplied aircraft, allows Thailand to maintain a degree of strategic autonomy while still benefiting from advanced Western technology.
This balancing act is likely to continue as Thailand navigates the complexities of its relationships with both the United States and China. The Gripen E/F, with its advanced capabilities and interoperability with other allied forces, provides Thailand with a valuable tool to enhance its security while maintaining its diplomatic flexibility.
Future Developments and Prospects
Looking ahead, the acquisition of the Gripen E/F is likely to be just the first step in a broader modernization of Thailand’s air force. The RTAF has already outlined plans to replace its aging F-16s and F-5s with new aircraft over the next two decades, and the Gripen E/F is expected to play a central role in this process.
The initial batch of Gripen E/Fs is expected to replace the oldest F-16s in the RTAF’s inventory, with deliveries beginning in the 2025 fiscal year. However, Thailand’s long-term defense plans call for the acquisition of additional aircraft to replace the F-5E/F Tiger IIs and later models of the F-16. This phased approach to modernization ensures that Thailand can maintain a capable and balanced air force while managing the financial and logistical challenges of such a large-scale procurement program.
In addition to the Gripen E/F, the RTAF is likely to explore other options for future acquisitions, including unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) and other advanced platforms. The integration of UAVs into the RTAF’s operations will be a key area of focus, particularly as these systems become more capable and versatile. The RTAF’s experience with the Gripen E/F’s network-centric capabilities will provide a solid foundation for integrating UAVs into Thailand’s broader defense network.
Another area of potential development is the enhancement of Thailand’s air defense and missile defense capabilities. As regional threats continue to evolve, the RTAF may seek to acquire advanced surface-to-air missile systems and other air defense technologies to complement its fighter aircraft. These systems would provide an additional layer of defense against airborne threats and enhance Thailand’s overall deterrence posture.
The Royal Thai Air Force’s decision to acquire the Saab Gripen E/F fighter jets marks a significant milestone in Thailand’s ongoing efforts to modernize its military and maintain a capable and versatile air defense force. The Gripen E/F, with its advanced technology, interoperability, and cost-effectiveness, is well-suited to meet the challenges of the 21st century and provide Thailand with a credible deterrent against potential threats.
This acquisition also reflects Thailand’s broader strategic goals, including its desire to maintain strong defense ties with its traditional allies while also diversifying its military partnerships. The Gripen E/F’s flexibility and compatibility with Thailand’s existing defense infrastructure make it a valuable asset in the country’s ongoing efforts to enhance its security and maintain its sovereignty.
As Thailand looks to the future, the Gripen E/F is likely to play a central role in the RTAF’s modernization plans, with additional acquisitions and upgrades expected in the coming years. This ongoing process of modernization will ensure that Thailand’s air force remains capable and ready to meet the challenges of a rapidly changing geopolitical landscape, both in Southeast Asia and beyond.
In conclusion, the RTAF’s selection of the Saab Gripen E/F is not just a procurement decision; it is a strategic move that will shape the future of Thailand’s military and its role in the region for decades to come. With its advanced capabilities, operational flexibility, and strategic significance, the Gripen E/F represents a major step forward for Thailand’s defense forces and a clear signal of the country’s commitment to maintaining a strong and independent defense posture in an increasingly complex world.
Fighter Jet Comparison Table
| Feature | Saab Gripen E/F | Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II | Dassault Rafale | Eurofighter Typhoon | Sukhoi Su-35 | Chengdu J-20 | Mikoyan MiG-35 | Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Country of Origin | Sweden | United States | France | Europe (UK, Germany, Italy, Spain) | Russia | China | Russia | United States |
| First Flight | 2017 (Gripen E) | 2006 | 2001 | 1994 | 2008 | 2011 | 2007 | 1995 |
| Engine | GE F414-GE-39E | Pratt & Whitney F135 | Snecma M88-2 | Eurojet EJ200 | Saturn AL-41F1S | WS-10B | RD-33MK | General Electric F414-GE-400 |
| Thrust | 22,000 lbf | 43,000 lbf | 34,000 lbf | 40,000 lbf | 64,000 lbf | 76,000 lbf | 18,000 lbf x 2 | 22,000 lbf x 2 |
| Max Speed | Mach 2.0 | Mach 1.6 | Mach 1.8 | Mach 2.0 | Mach 2.25 | Mach 2.0 | Mach 2.25 | Mach 1.8 |
| Combat Range | 1,500 km | 1,239 km | 1,850 km | 1,390 km | 1,580 km | 2,000 km | 1,000 km | 1,294 km |
| Ferry Range | 4,000 km | 2,800 km | 3,700 km | 3,790 km | 4,500 km | 5,500 km | 3,000 km | 3,300 km |
| Service Ceiling | 16,000 m | 15,240 m | 15,240 m | 19,812 m | 18,000 m | 20,000 m | 17,500 m | 15,240 m |
| Rate of Climb | 60,000 ft/min | 45,000 ft/min | 60,000 ft/min | 62,000 ft/min | 55,100 ft/min | Unknown | 65,000 ft/min | 50,000 ft/min |
| Radar | AESA | AN/APG-81 AESA | RBE2-AA AESA | Captor-E AESA | Irbis-E PESA | Type 1475 AESA | Zhuk-AE AESA | AN/APG-79 AESA |
| Max Payload | 16,500 lbs (7,500 kg) | 18,000 lbs (8,165 kg) | 21,000 lbs (9,500 kg) | 20,000 lbs (9,000 kg) | 17,630 lbs (8,000 kg) | 27,560 lbs (12,500 kg) | 13,230 lbs (6,000 kg) | 17,750 lbs (8,050 kg) |
| Weapons | Meteor, IRIS-T, RBS15 | AIM-120, AIM-9X, JDAM, SDB | MICA, Meteor, SCALP | Meteor, ASRAAM, Storm Shadow | R-77, R-27, Kh-31 | PL-15, PL-10, YJ-91 | R-77, R-73, Kh-29 | AIM-120, AIM-9X, Harpoon |
| Stealth Capabilities | Low observable | Stealth | Limited stealth | Limited stealth | No stealth | Stealth | Limited stealth | Limited stealth |
| Cost per Unit | $85 million | $79 million (F-35A) | $115 million | $90 million | $45 million | $110 million | $50 million | $70 million |
Key Insights from the Comparison:
- Thrust and Speed: The Sukhoi Su-35 and Chengdu J-20 have the highest thrust and speed capabilities, making them among the most powerful in this comparison. The F-35, while not as fast, is noted for its stealth and advanced technology.
- Range and Payload: The J-20 stands out with the longest ferry range and highest maximum payload, reflecting its strategic role in the Chinese air force. The Rafale and Eurofighter Typhoon are also notable for their long-range capabilities and heavy payloads.
- Radar and Avionics: All these jets are equipped with advanced AESA radars, which offer superior target detection and tracking capabilities. The Gripen E/F, with its sophisticated electronic warfare systems, is designed to operate effectively in heavily contested environments.
- Cost Efficiency: The Gripen E/F is known for its relatively low operating costs, making it an attractive option for countries needing advanced capabilities without the higher operational costs associated with jets like the F-35 or Rafale.
- Stealth Capabilities: The F-35 and Chengdu J-20 are the only fighters in this comparison with full stealth capabilities, which is a significant advantage in avoiding detection and enhancing survivability in combat.
The Saab Gripen E/F holds its own against other leading fighter jets globally, especially when considering its cost-effectiveness, advanced avionics, and low operating costs. While it may not match the sheer power or stealth capabilities of jets like the F-35 or J-20, it offers a balanced package that is highly suited to countries needing a modern, versatile, and affordable fighter jet. Each aircraft in this comparison has its strengths, depending on the operational requirements and strategic objectives of the purchasing nation.
