Thailand turns down Swedish fighter planes
Thai government scuttle plans on planned purchase of Saab Jas-Gripendue to political turbulence.
According to newspaper Bangkok Post, the Thai government has decided to postpone its purchase of six Saab Jas-Gripen aircrafts.
Thailand has previously ordered six aircrafts, set for delivery in 2011. In placing that order, Thailand also had the intention to purchase an additional six combat aircrafts, Swedish news bureau TT writes. This second order has now been postponed due the the turbulent economic and political situation in Thailand.
The Thai decision comes six month after Norway turned down a proposal offering of 48 aircrafts. Instead, the Norwegian government selected American F-35s for the Royal Norwegian Air Force due to lower costs. But according to Swedish defense minister Sten Tolgfors Norway had miscalculated the deal. Without doubt, the Norwegians turndown makes it harder to sell Gripen to other countries.
Countries currently operating Gripen are Czech Republic, Hungary, South Africa, United Kingdom and Sweden.
Last Updated (Monday, 25 May 2009 13:17)
