Royal Thai Air Force

The Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) is a capable regional air arm focused on defending Thailand's sovereignty and supporting national interests. Its organizational structure is conventional, divided into functional groups for command, combat, support, and training, ensuring a clear hierarchy for its various roles. This includes an Air Combat Command, a Security Force Command with a special operations regiment, and several air divisions and wings. The RTAF's headquarters is located at Don Muang Airbase in Bangkok.

The RTAF's operational capabilities are centered on a diverse inventory of aircraft sourced internationally. Its combat fleet's spearhead consists of American-made F-16 Fighting Falcons and Swedish JAS-39 Gripen multi-role fighters. These are supported by transport, training, and rotary-wing aircraft. The force's strategic doctrine, outlined in its 2020 White Paper, emphasizes flexible and versatile air power to protect airspace, air routes, and national economic zones. A key element of its developing operational strategy is dispersed operations, as demonstrated in recent exercises where Gripen fighters conducted landings, refueling, and rearming from taxiways and highways, enhancing resilience against first-strike attacks. The RTAF actively participates in joint exercises, such as "Enduring Partners" with the U.S. National Guard, to improve interoperability and explore multi-domain operations.

While the RTAF has a history of engagement in past regional conflicts, there have been no publicly major combat operations in recent years. Its present focus is on national defense, regional security contributions, and disaster relief operations.

Modernization is a primary focus for the RTAF, driven by a 20-year strategic plan. A significant program is the replacement of its aging F-16A/B fleet. The RTAF has selected the Saab Gripen E/F for this purpose, with an initial contract for four aircraft expected to be signed in 2025 as part of a larger plan to acquire a squadron of twelve. This choice was based on the Gripen's ability to meet the RTAF's doctrinal and strategic requirements. Additionally, the air force plans to acquire a multi-role tanker transport aircraft around 2025 to introduce a dedicated aerial refueling capability, which will significantly enhance its power projection and mission endurance for its fighter fleet.