The new Gripens are scheduled for delivery by 2029 and will replace Thailand’s aging F-16 fleet. Although the purchase had been planned earlier, military analyst Gen. Paradorn Pattanathabutr said the clashes “helped ensure the need” for updated air capabilities. The Royal Thai Air Force currently operates 11 Gripens and other aircraft across its 700-strong fleet.

The fighting began on July 24 and lasted five days before a ceasefire was brokered by Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim. Border gunfire and bombing raids between the two neighbors killed at least 30 Thais and 13 Cambodians, while more than 270,000 civilians fled the affected areas.

Thailand became the first country to use Gripen jets in combat, conducting strikes on Cambodian military sites during the conflict.

Submarine Project With China Back On Track

Alongside the fighter jet approval, the Thai cabinet also amended a stalled submarine procurement deal with China. The 2017 contract had required a German-made engine, which China failed to obtain due to export restrictions. To resolve the impasse, Thailand agreed to switch to a Chinese engine, extending the construction timeline by roughly three years.

The Thai navy said the submarine, once delivered, would significantly enhance maritime defense and underwater resource protection. As of 2021, the project was 64% complete but had been frozen due to the engine issue.

These parallel decisions mark a broader shift in Thailand’s defense posture amid regional volatility and strained Cambodia relations. Border security talks continue this week in Kuala Lumpur under the General Border Committee framework.