The Saab JAS 39 Gripen E/F is a new-generation multirole fighter aircraft developed by Saab AB of Sweden, designed to perform air-to-air, air-to-ground, and reconnaissance missions with exceptional flexibility and low operating cost. The Royal Thai Air Force selected the Gripen E/F in 2024 to modernize its fighter fleet and replace the aging F-16A/B ADF aircraft at Wing 1, Korat. According to Thailand’s defense modernization plan (White Paper 2024–2034), the initial phase will include four aircraft—three single-seat Gripen E and one twin-seat Gripen F—valued at approximately 19 billion baht, with technology transfer and industrial cooperation forming a major part of the program.The Gripen E is an upgraded evolution of the Gripen C/D already operated by Thailand’s Wing 7 in Surat Thani. It features the General Electric F414G engine, producing about 98 kN of thrust, giving the aircraft a maximum speed of Mach 2 and enabling short take-off and landing from road bases or short runways—an advantage highly valued by the RTAF. The airframe has a length of 15.2 m, wingspan of 8.6 m, and maximum take-off weight of 16,500 kg. Its internal fuel capacity has been increased by 40 percent over previous variants, providing extended range and endurance suitable for regional defense missions.Avionics and sensors have been significantly enhanced. The ES-05 Raven AESA radar offers wide-angle electronic scanning and multi-target tracking, while the Skyward G Infra-Red Search and Track (IRST) system provides passive detection of aerial targets without emitting radar signals. The Gripen E also carries an integrated electronic warfare suite, modern data links, and a wide-area cockpit display that improves pilot situational awareness. Its open-architecture mission computer allows easy software updates and integration of both Western and local weapon systems, supporting beyond-visual-range missiles like the MBDA Meteor and short-range IRIS-T, as well as precision air-to-surface munitions. The aircraft’s ten external hardpoints provide space for weapons, fuel tanks, or reconnaissance pods, allowing a mix of offensive and defensive payloads. Designed for rapid turnaround, a Gripen can be refueled and rearmed in under 20 minutes by a small ground crew. These characteristics, combined with its proven reliability, make it one of the most cost-effective 4.5-generation fighters available. For Thailand, the Gripen E/F’s selection represents continuity with existing systems, enhanced combat capability, and an opportunity to strengthen domestic defense technology through collaboration with Sweden.