The Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) has shown an interest in comparing new fighters, tactical transport aircraft and other aircraft for this new decade.
Among tesa's acquisitions, it is planned to purchase more fighters to replace the Lockheed Martin F-16A/B fleet, which are spread across two squadrons. To this end, it expects to obtain financing for six new jets in the 2023-2026 fiscal year and another six in 2025-2028. For the 15 Sqn F-16A/B block 103s, he hopes to secure funding for six new jets in 2028-2031 and six more in 2030-2033. Overall, the acquisition of 24 new fighters will take place between 2023 and 2033.
In addition to the F-16s, the RTAF wants to upgrade its fleet of SAAB Gripen JAS-39 fighters, which currently has 11 units.
The RTAF also wants to invest local work in the country's aerospace production during this decade.
The Air Force also wants to obtain 12 light attack aircraft to replace its Aero Vodochody L-39s. In addition there would be two T-50THs from Aerospace Industries of Korea, which would be added to the 12 examples already acquired.
Still in the purchasing hall to upgrade its air force, the modernization of two early warning aircraft, Saab 340, is included.
Leaving for tactical transport aviation, the RTAF is planning to purchase 12 new aircraft to replace its old C-130H, this budget is expected to take place between 2022-2029.
Also in the transport category, the RTAF hopes to obtain a new VIP aircraft to transport the country's royal family, as well as a replacement for an ACJ319 with VIP configuration and a new VIP helicopter.
The RTAF will retire its Pilatus PC-9 basic trainers in 2023 and expects to replace them with 12 new aircraft. Also want to get a replacement for their basic Pacific Aerospace CT-4E trainers.
Ultimately, the RTAF wants to replace the older Bell 412s with new assets, get an armed UAV, and get four aircraft to replace the Basler BT-67s, an upgraded version of the Douglas DC-3 used for transport and cloud seeding work.
