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Thai Air Force faces a choice between F-16 and Gripen to replace aging fleet

13 Sept 12:10 Key points summarised by AI

The Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) plans to acquire 12 new fighter jets, choosing between the US F-16 and Swedish Gripen, after its request for the advanced F-35 was rejected by the US due to readiness concerns.
The procurement will be a phased, 12-year plan, with initial funding sought for four jets in fiscal year 2025. The RTAF will evaluate aircraft efficiency, budget, and crucial operational independence, especially regarding data-link systems.
A key decision factor is the US's restrictive policy on modifying F-16 data-link systems, contrasting with Thailand's successful joint development of the Link-T system with Saab for Gripen, which enables seamless integration with its naval fleet.

Yesterday 12:56 Key points summarised by AI

President Macron condemned widespread rioting and looting during nationwide protests, blaming far-left activists and criminals for the "unrestrained violence" and vowing accountability for those who "sought to bring down the Republic."
Over 2,400 arrests were made as protests against rising living costs and poor school conditions escalated, causing extensive damage to public buildings and businesses in cities like Paris, Limoges (where City Hall burned), Marseille, and Lyon.
The unrest, which organizers hoped would revive the "yellow vest" movement, saw political leaders trade blame, with Macron instructing prefects to protect public buildings and potentially ban future protests to prevent further disorder.