Thailand to Launch Lead-In Fighter Programme After New Government Forms

One of candidate to replace its fleet of L-39 Albatross is KAI T-50 aircraft (image : Wing Palette)

The Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) expects to launch a USD400 million programme to acquire lead-in fighter trainer (LIFT) aircraft following the formation of a new Thai government, RTAF spokesman Group Captain Prapas Sonjaidee told IHS Jane's on 22 January 2014.

The aircraft acquired through the LIFT programme will replace a handful of ageing Northrop F-5 trainers in service with the RTAF and eventually its fleet of Aero L-39 Albatros trainer/light attack aircraft procured in the early 1990s. The procurement programme has become pressing since the RTAF started operating a fleet of 12 JAS 39 Gripen fighters, which were delivered from 2011-2013.

(Jane's)