The Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) has confirmed the purchase of four Saab Gripen E/F fighter aircraft, each powered by GE Aerospace’s advanced F414-GE-39E engines. The acquisition forms part of a government-to-government agreement between Thailand and Sweden.
“The F414-GE-39E delivers the power, reliability, and adaptability needed for next-generation combat capability, and we’re honored to support Thailand as it expands its Gripen fleet,” said Shawn Warren, vice president and general manager, Combat and Trainer Engines at GE Aerospace. “This agreement continues a longstanding collaboration between GE Aerospace, Saab, and international air forces around the world.”
The deal strengthens Thailand’s existing Gripen fleet, which currently consists of C/D variants powered by GE Aerospace’s RM12 engine, a derivative of the F404. The RTAF acquired those aircraft in 2008.
Thailand becomes the third country to operate the Gripen E/F powered by the F414-GE-39E engine, after Sweden and Brazil. It also marks the first adoption of the aircraft in the Asia-Pacific region.
With more than 1,600 F414 engines delivered globally and over 5 million flight hours accumulated, the engine family has established itself as a proven and adaptable powerplant for advanced combat platforms operating in demanding environments.
SOURCE NAD IMAGE: GE AEROSPACE
