Historic First Combat Use of Saab Gripen Fighter in Cambodia.

On July 26, 2025, the Royal Thai Air Force marked a significant operational milestone by deploying its Swedish-made Saab JAS 39 Gripen fighter jets for the first time in an actual combat mission. This deployment took place in the context of rising regional tensions, as armed clashes had been ongoing for several days between Thai and Cambodian forces along the border area near the Ta Muen Thom temple and the Phu Ma Kua ridge.
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Delivered in 2011 and based at Surat Thani Air Base, Thailand’s Gripen fleet consists of seven single-seat JAS 39C and four two-seat JAS 39D variants

The origin of the conflict dates back to late May, when a Cambodian soldier was fatally shot in a disputed patrol zone, triggering a series of incidents that quickly escalated. By late July, Cambodian rocket attacks against Thailand’s Surin Province prompted Bangkok to mobilize its air assets, including F-16s and Gripens. On July 26, the Gripen aircraft conducted targeted airstrikes against enemy artillery and mobile rocket positions, providing support to ground forces while aiming to reduce collateral damage.

Delivered in 2011 and based at Surat Thani Air Base, Thailand’s Gripen fleet consists of seven single-seat JAS 39C and four two-seat JAS 39D variants, as confirmed by The Military Balance 2025. These aircraft form a compact but modern force integrated into a network-centric structure supported by Saab 340 AEW&C platforms. This first combat engagement demonstrated the operational functionality of the Swedish fighter system in a real-world environment, utilizing real-time coordination, dynamic targeting, and precision strike capabilities.

The JAS 39 Gripen is a single-engine multirole fighter designed by Saab to meet a wide range of operational requirements including air-to-air, air-to-ground, and reconnaissance missions. It features a delta wing–canard configuration, advanced fly-by-wire flight control, and the PS-05/A X-band radar capable of tracking multiple targets at extended range. With eight hardpoints and compatibility with various NATO and non-NATO weapons, the Gripen offers operational flexibility while maintaining a low operating cost. A two-seat version maintains full combat capability and is used for specialized missions and training.

In contrast, the Royal Cambodian Air Force does not possess combat-capable aircraft. Its inventory is limited to transport, liaison, and training platforms, without advanced air defense systems. This disparity has enabled Thailand to maintain uncontested air superiority from the outset of the conflict.

For Saab, the Gripen’s first use in combat represents a pivotal moment. Despite entering service in the 1990s, the aircraft had never previously been used in an actual combat zone. Its performance in this mission may influence its standing in the export market, particularly for countries seeking a versatile and cost-effective multirole fighter.

As hostilities continue along the border, Thailand demonstrates its growing investment in airpower and its intent to play a larger role in the evolving security landscape of Southeast Asia.