Royal Thai Air Force completes successful Gripen taxiway trial

Saab JAS-39C/D Gripen fighter jets performing landings and take-offs on taxiways. This exercise, conducted by the 701st Squadron, was designed to assess the aircraft’s flexibility in non-traditional operations, providing valuable insight into its adaptability in challenging conditions. During the trials, the Gripen jets were tasked with operating on taxiways significantly narrower than conventional runways. With a width of only 22 meters, the taxiways presented a particular challenge. However, the Saab - Gripen jets successfully carried out landings within a distance of 610 meters, demonstrating their operational precision and adaptability in constrained environments.

The trials also involved ground crews, who participated in refueling and rearming the aircraft in field conditions, simulating rapid deployment scenarios. This aspect of the exercise was critical in evaluating the overall operational readiness of both the aircraft and the ground personnel.

The trials align with the RTAF’s broader efforts to enhance the operational capabilities of its fleet, with future implications for Thailand's fighter procurement strategy. The Thai government is currently considering the acquisition of up to 16 gr aircraft, following a recommendation by the RTAF. If approved, this would mark a significant step in modernizing Thailand’s air force and replacing the ageing fleet of Lockheed Martin F-16A/B Fighting Falcon Block 10/15 aircraft.

The results of these trials are expected to play an important role in the ongoing procurement discussions, with deliveries of the new Gripen aircraft potentially commencing in the coming years, subject to government approval.

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