RTAF lays out future plans in formal white paper
On 20 February, the Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) took the novel step of releasing a 100-page white paper. It lists procurement plans over the next decade, but much of its raison d’être seems to be to stake a claim for long-term funding as its aircraft inventories gradually ail.
The Thai fighter fleet is on average 26.05 years old, compared to 31.75 years for the transport fleet and 48 years for special mission aircraft.
The RTAF noted in the white paper: ‘Due to the limited allocated budget, the RTAF is not capable of replacing all end-of-service life inventory by new
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Air Warfare
-
UK MoD unveils first steps for British Army Watchkeeper replacement
Project Corvus will look for a replacement for the Watchkeeper Mk1 uncrewed aerial system (UAS) that was retired from service in the British Army in March 2025.
-
Sweden requests approval to pursue Gripen and GlobalEye sales to Peru and Denmark
The Swedish Government has asked parliament to authorise two possible export sales as part of its 2025 Spring amending budget bill.
-
Germany confirms loitering munitions contracts for its armed forces
Contracts for the procurement of two platforms have been signed, and will be tested by the German armed forces.
-
Collins prepares expansion of the US Navy/Marine Tactical Combat Training System Inc II
The company has been negotiating the supply of TCTS II to US allies and partners.
-
Spanish Air Force receives first converted A330 MRTT
The second and third Airbus A330 MRTT for the Spanish Air Force have been undergoing conversion in Getafe, Madrid.