Aircraft

Thailand is evaluating new proposals from the Russian, Swedish and US governments to supply its air force with 12 new fighter aircraft. It plans to award a contract by year-end following a selection to be announced during March.

Industry sources say offers of the Lockheed Martin F-16C/D, Saab/BAE Systems Gripen and Sukhoi Su-30 were submitted late last year. Bangkok is to spend up to $800 million on the new aircraft, but says the acquisition must be funded under a barter deal, which could exclude the F-16. Russia and Sweden have agreed in principle to accept the terms, but Lockheed is reviewing Thailand’s barter policy to determine if it is acceptable.

The Thai air force has indicated it may also be interested in the Boeing F/A-18E/F Super Hornet, which it selected a decade ago for an eight-aircraft acquisition later abandoned after Thailand’s currency collapsed. However, sources say the F/A-18E/F was not included in the US government proposal and that Thailand has yet to request information on the aircraft.

The air force is believed to have favoured the F-16 following an evaluation completed after a round of proposals was submitted early last year, although the government is thought to prefer a Russian solution. A selection has already been delayed by one year, with the new aircraft required to replace one of the air force’s Northrop F-5 squadrons. Thailand recently launched an upgrade project for its three F-16A/B squadrons, with structural upgrades to 18 aircraft to be carried out this year. A broader mid-life upgrade for the entire fleet is also being discussed with Lockheed.

n A Thai air force source confirms that Sweden has included a proposal to supply Thailand with two Saab 2000-based airborne early-warning and control system aircraft as part of its fighter proposal, while Russia’s bid includes two Mil Mi-17 transport helicopters.