Gripen Jets Touch Down on Thailand’s Highways
In recent months, the Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) has taken significant steps to modernize its fighter jet fleet and enhance operational flexibility. One of the most notable initiatives is the planned tests of JAS 39 Gripen fighter jets taking off and landing on highways. This test is scheduled to take place on Thursday, February 27, 2025, on Highway 4287 in Songkhla province.
The purpose of these tests is to evaluate the Gripen’s ability to operate from short and alternative runways, a critical capability if conventional airfields become inoperable during conflicts or emergencies. Two flights are planned—one landing and one subsequent takeoff. The highway was selected by the transport authorities as a suitable test site, and strict security measures will be in place, with police, military, and local authorities overseeing the area.
This effort to test the Gripen’s flexibility is part of RTAF’s broader strategy to strengthen its operational readiness. Similar tests were conducted in January 2025 at Wing 7 in Surat Thani, where Gripen aircraft successfully performed takeoffs and landings on short runways. These exercises are intended to ensure that the Air Force can continue operations even if primary bases become unavailable.
At the same time, RTAF has made progress in its plans to renew its fleet. In August 2024, RTAF announced its decision to acquire Saab JAS 39 Gripen E/F to replace aging F-16A/B fighter jets. After a ten-month evaluation process, where the Gripen was compared with Lockheed Martin’s F-16 Block 70/72, the Gripen E/F was determined to best meet the Air Force’s military and strategic requirements. However, the decision is still awaiting approval from the Thai government.
The planned investment amounts to approximately 19 billion baht (about 560 million USD) for the initial purchase of four new Gripen E/F aircraft between 2025 and 2029. The long-term plan extends until 2034, aiming to acquire a total of 12 new fighter jets to gradually replace the older F-16 models. Although RTAF has expressed its intent to purchase the Gripen E/F, no formal contract has been signed yet, and the final decision rests with the Thai government.
Thailand already has experience operating Gripen jets; between 2011 and 2013, a total of 12 Gripen C/D were acquired, and they have been actively serving at Wing 7 in Surat Thani. The previous cooperation with Saab and the positive experience of the Gripen’s performance have likely contributed to the current decision to expand the fleet with the more advanced E/F models.
In summary, these initiatives reflect RTAF’s commitment to strengthening its defense capabilities by both enhancing operational flexibility and modernizing its fleet. The upcoming Gripen highway operation tests, along with plans to procure new Gripen E/F jets, mark significant steps in this ongoing development.
