Sweden and Thailand add new orders for Saab Gripen jets

Sweden announced an additional purchase of 12 Gripen E fighter jets, bringing its total order to 72 aircraft. The extra jets will replace the 16 JAS 39C/D fighters the Swedish Air Force plans to transfer to Ukraine, according to Air Force Commander Major General Jonas Wikman. It is the first expansion of the original 2013 contract and is intended to maintain Sweden’s fleet size.

Thailand’s Royal Air Force intends to seek funding for eight more Gripen E/F jets, completing a new 12‑aircraft squadron to replace its ageing F‑16 fleet. The proposal is expected to be submitted in the 2028 fiscal year under the Burapha Santi programme. The plan follows a recent order for four Gripen E/F aircraft, which includes three single‑seat E models and one two‑seat F model, with deliveries scheduled through 2030. The Thai deal incorporates technology transfer, industrial cooperation and offset investments as part of a long‑term partnership with Saab.