{
  "id": 14167054,
  "title": "Thai Air Force plans second phase of Gripen fighter jet purchase",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/10/13/thai-air-force-plans-second-phase-of-gripen-fighter-jet-purchase",
  "topic": "world",
  "section": "World",
  "published": "2026-10-13T09:18:56.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Khaosod English",
    "slug": "khaosod-english",
    "url": "https://www.khaosodenglish.com/news/2026/10/13/thai-air-force-plans-second-phase-of-gripen-fighter-jet-purchase/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "BANGKOK - The Royal Thai Air Force intends to continue with the second phase of its Gripen fighter jet procurement project, with financial support included in the fiscal 2027 budget, stated Air Force chief ACM Seksan Khantha on Monday. Speaking on 12 October, Seksan emphasized that the procurement aimed to bolster Thailand's defense capabilities against potential threats. He stressed the importance of manned fighter aircraft, as critical decisions in complex situations still required human judgment, particularly when evaluating life-and-death risks. Seksan explained that Air Force personnel would be trained to work with advanced technologies to enhance decision-making effectiveness. He reiterated that manned aircraft would continue to be a vital component of the nation's combat capabilities. Seksan highlighted the necessity for a sufficient quantity and quality of aircraft to safeguard Thailand's sovereignty. The project would also necessitate technology transfers, personnel training, and infrastructure development to ensure readiness in defending the country's airspace against potential threats. Seksan indicated that the goal was to ensure that crucial areas could be protected from attack in the event of war. The Air Force anticipates receiving the Gripen aircraft as part of the second phase of the procurement project in 2029.",
  "summary": "BANGKOK – The Royal Thai Air Force plans to proceed with the second phase of its Gripen fighter jet procurement project, with funding included in the fiscal 2027 budget, Air Force chief ACM Seksan Khantha said on Monday. Speaking on 12 October, Seksan said the procurement was intended to strengthen Thailand’s defence capabilities against potential […] The post Thai Air Force plans second phase of…",
  "key_points": [],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}