Swedish Gripen Jets Used in Thai Attack on Cambodia

Thailand has reportedly used Swedish Gripen fighter jets in an attack on Cambodia, according to Thai newspaper The Nation, citing the air force. Two Gripen jets were involved in the assault.

The Thai air force deployed two Jas Gripen and two American F-16 jets during the attack, according to the report.

The attack targeted two military sites, in Phu Ma Kua and near the Ta Muen Thom temple, The Nation reports.

Both attacks reportedly 'neutralized the targets,' according to the military, and the four jets returned to base.

From the Cambodian side, there is no information about the current attack.

Several Dead in the Clashes

The conflict between Thailand and Cambodia has escalated over the past week, with fighting continuing on Saturday, as both sides claim to have acted in self-defense.

In total, over 30 people, including several civilians, have now died in the conflict, writes AFP.

Negotiating to Buy More

Thailand currently has eleven Jas 39 Gripen jets and is negotiating with Sweden to purchase more, according to SVT News.

The aircraft is manufactured by Saab, but since Swedish arms exports are state-regulated, the government must approve deals. This is done according to assessments conducted by ISP, the Inspectorate of Strategic Products.

By law, consideration must be given to whether the purchasing country meets a range of criteria regarding democracy and human rights—which some question whether Thailand truly does.

Saab confirms that negotiations are ongoing but provides no further comments. To SVT News, Saab states that they 'of course hope for a peaceful resolution to the conflict as soon as possible.'