U.S. Offers Thailand Low Interest Rates for F-16, Countering Sweden’s JAS39 Gripen Offer
The United States has reportedly offered lower interest rates to Thailand if the Southeast Asian nation opts to purchase Lockheed Martin's F-16 Block 70 fighter jets instead of Sweden's JAS39 E/F Gripen.

(DEFENCE SECURITY ASIA) — The United States has reportedly offered lower interest rates to Thailand if the Southeast Asian nation opts to purchase Lockheed Martin’s F-16 Block 70 fighter jets instead of Sweden’s JAS39 E/F Gripen.
According to the Bangkok Post, sources revealed to the Thai Ministry of Defense that the U.S. made this low-interest rate offer just days after the Swedish-made fighter jets were reported to be Thailand’s preferred choice.
Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) Commander ACM Phanphakdee Phattanakul has reportedly presented details about the JAS39 Gripen E/F and F-16 Block 70 jets to Defense Minister Sutin Klungsang and Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin for a decision.
“We need to wait and see what Sweden’s Saab will offer to counter the U.S. proposal,” the source stated.
The source also mentioned that the Thai government would not rush its decision and would allow the American and Swedish companies to compete against each other.

RTAF officials, including the Commander, visited the Thai Parliament last Wednesday to present the budget proposal for the military branch, with the fiscal year 2025 budget starting on October 1.
When asked by reporters, ACM Phanphakdee said he had discussed with the Defense Minister the need for new fighter jets for the RTAF. He noted that the Defense Minister would submit the RTAF’s proposal to the Prime Minister.
Currently, the RTAF operates around 50 F-16 fighter jets and 11 JAS39 Gripen fighter jets.
Last month, Saab opened its facilities in Sweden to Thai media to provide a closer look at its advanced capabilities, as reported by the Bangkok Post.
The visit included a tour of the Gripen E/F fighter jet production facilities, the latest variant offered to the RTAF.
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