Royal Thai Air Force

The Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) is a conventional air arm focused on defending the country's sovereignty and territorial integrity. Its organizational structure is built around five main groups: command, combat, support, education and training, and special services. The combat element is the core of the force, divided into several wings operating from a network of bases established or upgraded during the Vietnam War era. This structure also includes a ground component with the Security Force Command, which provides air base defense and incorporates special operations units.

The RTAF's strategic doctrine is primarily defensive, geared towards countering threats within its own region rather than power projection. This is reflected in its operational capabilities, which are centered on its fleet of multi-role fighters, primarily American F-16s and Swedish JAS-39 Gripens. The force is working to enhance its operational effectiveness through network-centric warfare, integrating its fighters with an airborne early warning and control (AEW&C) system via the Link-T datalink. A 2020 white paper also outlined a focus on developing capabilities in the cyber and space domains to support network-centric operations. The RTAF maintains operational readiness and interoperability through regular joint exercises. These include the long-standing Cope Tiger exercise with the United States and Singapore, as well as the Falcon Strike exercise with China, where the RTAF has engaged in air combat training against different aircraft types.

The RTAF is pursuing a multi-faceted plan based on a principle of "efficiency and quality over quantity". Key efforts include the progressive upgrade of existing assets, such as the F-5 and JAS-39 Gripen fleets, to enhance their combat systems and extend their service lives. Procurement priorities aim to replace aging aircraft. There is a confirmed order for an A330 Multi Role Tanker Transport (MRTT) to enhance aerial refueling and strategic transport capabilities. The force has selected the Saab Gripen E/F over the Lockheed Martin F-35 as its next-generation fighter to replace older F-16s, contracting a first batch of four aircraft in August 2025 as the opening tranche of a planned twelve. Modernization of the training fleet is also underway with the acquisition of new T-6TH Texan II trainers.