Thai Air Force Marks 15 Years of Gripen and Saab 340 Aircraft
Thailand's Royal Air Force celebrated 15 years of operating Gripen fighter jets and Saab 340 surveillance aircraft at Wing 7 in Surat Thani, with formation flying displays and an "Elephant Walk" of 14 jets showcasing the country's modernize
The Royal Thai Air Force celebrated 15 years of service for the Gripen C/D fighter jets and Saab 340 airborne warning and control aircraft at Wing 7 in Surat Thani Province on July 20, 2025. Supreme Commander General Ukritsadee Buntanon and Air Force Commander Air Chief Marshal Seksarr Khantha presided over the event, joined by former air force commanders including Air Chief Marshal Ittaporn Suphavong, who initiated the Gripen procurement program, along with General Prachin Chanthong and General Panthaphakdi Pattanagun.
Key activities included formation flying displays by Gripen C/D and Saab 340 aircraft, demonstrations of Gripen fighter capabilities, and an 'Elephant Walk' featuring 14 aircraft in total—nine Gripens and five Saab 340s—taxiing in unified formation on the runway. General Ukritsadee emphasized that the 2011 decision to acquire these aircraft has ensured Thailand's readiness for modern, multi-dimensional warfare. He noted that the air force continues developing modern warfare capabilities through sensor systems and cross-dimensional operational foundations, with plans to acquire additional fighter aircraft and enhanced systems that will strengthen Thailand's regional defense posture over the next decade.
Air Force Commander Air Chief Marshal Seksarr highlighted the crucial role Gripen aircraft played in supporting joint military operations during the Thailand-Cambodia border crisis, demonstrating the tangible benefits of the 15-year investment in advanced air capabilities and network-centric operations.
