Thailand chooses Swedish Gripen fighters over American F-16s.

The Royal Thai Air Force has decided to enhance its military capabilities by purchasing 12 Swedish Gripen fighters. This comes after the selection of the Gripen E/F aircraft from Saab AB to replace the outdated F-16s from American production. The purchase will be made over a period of 10 years in phases.

'The Gripen E/F is the best solution for providing Thailand with an independent air force of the future, significantly improving the nation's security and defense,' said Mikael Johansson, president and CEO of Saab, in a press release.

The announcement of the choice of Gripen fighters came after the U.S. refused to sell F-35As. Thailand is looking for ways to modernize its military forces due to limited budget and geopolitical concerns.

Diversifying Thailand's military supplies

The selection of Swedish Gripen fighters also reflects Thailand's desire to spread risks and reduce reliance on American military technology. This move will help maintain independence in air defense and minimize threats in the event of conflicts in Southeast Asia.