Thai Air Force Modernization

In light of China's increased assertiveness and claims to disputed territories in the South China Sea, most South East Asian countries have found that they are inadequately equipped to protect their (disputed) territories. Thailand is one of these countries.

The Royal Thai Air Force has recently (relatively) undertaken a modernization of its Aircraft fleet.

In 2007, under the RTAF's 20th fighter programme, the Swedish Saab JAS 39 Gripen came ahead of its competitors; the Russian Sukhoi Su-30MKIT, F-16C/D Block 50/52and the Swedish Saab JAS 39 Gripen to replace the F-5s.

Thailand will procure 12 JAS 39 Gripens (6 delivered as of 2011 with 6 more awaiting delivery), 2 Saab 340 Erieye AEW&C and 1 Saab 340 (for transport) and the RBS-15 missile system. Prudently the deal includes technology transfer as well.

The RTAF currently operates 6 JAS 39 Gripens, with 6 more on order and it is widely expected that they will further order 6 more (at least) to bring it fighter fleet to 18.

	Saab 340 AEW&C
	Crew: 5
	Length: 20.57 m ( ft in)
	Wingspan: 21.44 m ( ft in)
	Height: 6.97 m ( ft in)
	Gross weight: 13155 kg ( lb) each
	Performance
	Cruising speed: 300 km/h ( mph)
	Endurance: 7 hours
	Service ceiling: 7,620 m ( ft)

The two Saab 340 AEW&C and the single Saab 340 (for transport) have already been delivered

In a separate deal later (late 2012), the Saab Group will also provide an Electronic Communication Systems to operate between the Gripen and the Royal Thai Navy's frigates, Naresuan and Taksin.

Early 2013 saw RTAF, showcasing the Gripen sporting the Sidewinder AIM-9P (short-range air to air), AIM-120C AMRAAM (medium range air to air), the RB-15F (long range anti-ship) and also the IRIS-T (short range air to air).

Beyond the development of RTAF's cache of Combat Aircraft and their armament, the air force has also in the pipeline plans to update its Radar-Based Defence Systems which is to be completed by 2014.

October 2012 saw RTAF taking possession of its new TPS-77 Radar from Lockheed Martin. The TPS-77 is a transportable version of the AN/FPS-117; which is a phased array, 3-dimensional air search radar with a range of 200-250 nautical miles.

The Government of Thailand takes a cautious approach in its modernization programs seemingly trying to take the approach that many more successful defence forces, such as Singapore, have taken, taking care to obtain a transfer of technology and logistic programs where available. They also do not over-commit on their procurement activities, leaving room for the the next administration to adapt to changing circumstances in the future.