Saab–RTAF Held Offset Meeting for the Gripen Project

19 Januari 2026

Saab delegation with RTAF discussed offset for Gripen project (photos: RTAF)

The Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF), represented by Air Chief Marshal Praphas Sonjaidee, Assistant Commander-in-Chief of the RTAF and Chairman of the Offset Agreement Acceptance Committee, welcomed representatives from Saab of Sweden on January 12, 2026, for the Saab–RTAF Offset Meeting following the signing of a cooperation agreement. The meeting aimed to discuss concrete approaches to the Offset project, encompassing both personnel development and technology transfer.

The purpose of the meeting was to introduce the new personnel responsible for both sides, as well as to clarify and explain the details and conditions of the contract. The Saab delegation was led by Ms. Lena-Marie Ilestrand, Head of the Offset Business Unit for the Gripen project, along with Mr. Anders Håkansson, Director of Contracts, and Mr. Robert Björklund, Director of Marketing.

Key topics of discussion included:

• Establishing a standard mechanism for modifying contract details to ensure clarity and flexibility in project implementation.

• Adjusting the scholarship program format for more efficient management. The first phase of funding is expected to begin in 2027.

• Discussions were held on the transfer of Link-T system technology to RTAF personnel, including the establishment of a training framework and systematic certification of technology transfer results.

Both parties agreed to continue coordinating closely to prepare for the implementation steps and schedule follow-up meetings. The aim is for this cooperation to enhance the RTAF's capabilities and sustainably develop the potential of its personnel in aviation and advanced technology.

(RTAF)