The Thai Air Force has confirmed the deployment of Swedish-made Gripen jets in its border conflict with Cambodia, aiming to defend sovereignty and support peace talks. This marks the first known military use of Gripen jets, as Thailand negotiates purchasing more from Saab.
Thailand Confirms Use of Swedish Gripen Jets in Border Conflict
Thailand Confirms Use of Swedish Gripen Jets in Border Conflict
The Thai Air Force has confirmed the use of its Swedish-made Gripen jets in the border conflict with Cambodia.
The Air Force provided "continuous support" to the army in missions along the Cambodian border with both Gripen and F-16 jets between July 24 and 28, according to spokesperson Prapas Sornjaidee on Tuesday, as reported by Thai newspaper The Nation.
The aim was to "defend the country's sovereignty, reduce risks to civilians, and create strategic conditions favorable to ongoing peace negotiations," the statement continued.
Day and Night Operations
During the missions, conducted both day and night, the Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) carried out "precision strikes against military targets deemed threats to Thailand's security." Among other actions, they reportedly destroyed weapon depots and command centers, according to the spokesperson.
Prapas Sornjaidee stated that Thailand's use of the air force is fully compliant with international law as it exercises its right to self-defense.
Plans to Purchase More
Thailand currently has 12 Swedish Gripen jets of the C/D model, and Saab signed the first contract with the Swedish Defence Materiel Administration (FMV) related to this in 2008. The country is in the midst of negotiations to purchase more Gripen jets from Saab, which could be influenced by the border conflict. This is the first known instance of Gripen jets being used in military attacks.
After five days of fighting, a ceasefire between Thailand and Cambodia came into effect on Monday evening Swedish time, but on Tuesday, Thailand accused Cambodia of violating the ceasefire.