The Royal Thai Air Force unveiled its future aspirations in a 74-page document released on Feb. 29 at its annual symposium in CHRISTCHURCH, New Zealand. The document outlines plans for counter-drone systems, new fighter jets, and medium-range air defense systems until 2037. The service’s commander, Air Chief Marshal Panpakdee Pattanakul, emphasized the importance of long-term development planning and spending from the national budget.
The acquisition process for the Air Force is hindered by factors such as political instability, inadequate strategic planning, and weak oversight, according to Asia-Pacific affairs expert Greg Raymond. The service plans to prioritize the procurement of medium-range air defense systems, short-range air defense systems, counter-drone systems, and new fighters to replace aging aircraft.
Lockheed Martin’s F-16 Block 70/72 and Saab’s Gripen are contenders for the new fighter jets. The service aims to replace F-16s by 2028 and F-5E/F jets by the end of the decade. Thailand maintains relations with various countries like the United States, China, Russia, and India, with a focus on military procurement from multiple sources. The government’s defense budget for FY24 allocates approximately $1 billion to the Air Force.
