The Royal Thai Air Force originally selected the Saab JAS-39 Gripen C/D in 2007 to replace its elderly Northrop F-5 fighter fleet. The air force currently has 11 of the aircraft, and is appearing in the Singapore Airshow flying display for the first time.

The advantage of the Gripen C/D models is that they offer strong competition against cheaper-to-acquire second-hand fighters such as Lockheed Martin F-16s and surplus Tranche 1 Eurofighter Typhoons.

The Mach 2 capable Gripen C/D is powered by a Volvo RM12 delivering 12,100 pounds of thrust or 18,100 pounds with afterburner.