As reported by Pattaya Mail, the Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) is gearing up to unveil its development blueprint, which includes the acquisition of 12 new fighter jets, at the upcoming RTAF Symposium 2024 scheduled for next month.
Air Chief Marshal Phanpakdee Pattanakul, the Commander-in-chief of the RTAF, has disclosed that this plan will encompass the Air Force’s future vision, including the procurement of new weaponry, equipment, and maintenance initiatives.
During the RTAF Tech Talk 2024 event, ACM Phanpakdee emphasized the pivotal role of research and development in fostering sustainable progress and reducing Thailand’s dependence on imported military hardware. He recognized the Air Force’s extensive involvement in research and development, which has played a crucial role in achieving its operational objectives.
A critical aspect of the RTAF’s strength lies in its diverse aircraft inventory. The RTAF boasted a wide range of aircraft, encompassing fighter jets, transport planes, helicopters, and reconnaissance aircraft. Notable entries in their arsenal featured the Saab JAS 39 Gripen, a modern multi-role fighter designed for air defense and ground attack missions, the Lockheed Martin F-16 Fighting Falcon, another versatile fighter jet, the Boeing 737 AEW&C, an Airborne Early Warning and Control aircraft primarily used for surveillance and command functions, and the reliable C-130 Hercules, serving as a workhorse for troop and cargo transport.