Saab Thailand, a subsidiary of Sweden-based defence and security manufacturer Saab, is stepping up its presence in the country by seeking new partners to produce aircraft parts and support the defence industry.
The company said Thailand's rapidly growing defence sector offers significant opportunities for advanced security technologies.
"Thailand is a rapidly growing country for the defence industry and there is much opportunity for security technology," said Fredrik Lindblom, vice-president and country manager of Saab Thailand.
The company has often collaborated with the Royal Thai Armed Forces to safeguard national sovereignty across air, land and sea, including Gripen fighter aircraft and advanced air defence systems.
Saab has partnered with Thailand's armed forces for more than 40 years, supporting the development of integrated air and surveillance capabilities.
A recent commitment is an offset agreement linked to the Royal Thai Air Force's purchase of Gripen E/F fighter jets. Under the agreement, Saab will facilitate technology transfers and industrial cooperation, focusing on building local capabilities for maintaining and producing aircraft parts.
Mr Lindblom said the offset package aligns with Thailand's ambition to strengthen its aerospace industrial base, including original equipment manufacturing partnerships.
Saab plans to work with Thai industry partners such as Thai Aviation Industries and local small and medium-sized enterprises to expand domestic expertise.
Since the mid-1980s, Saab has supported Thailand with a wide range of capabilities, including radar and air defence systems, naval combat management, ground combat systems and training and simulation.
The company noted its long-term investments and technology transfers are designed to enhance Thailand's self-reliance in defence.
Global geopolitical tensions are fuelling demand for defence systems, and Asia-Pacific reported sales growth of 7% in 2025.
Saab, which allocated 16% of its revenue last year to R&D, views Thailand as a strategic partner in this expanding market.
