The Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) has reinforced its partnership with German weapon manufacturer Diehl Defence through a recent agreement focused on the technical and logistical support of the IRIS-T missile system, a short-range air-to-air missile designed for fighter aircraft. Signed in Germany in early October 2024, this contract—only recently disclosed by Diehl—aims to enhance RTAF’s operational capabilities by improving the integration and support of the IRIS-T across its fleet.
Currently, the IRIS-T, a fifth-generation missile, is deployed on RTAF’s Gripen, F-16, and F-5 jets, proving effective in these platforms and laying the groundwork for further integration on additional aircraft, such as the F-5 TH Super Tigris light fighter, where it has already been successfully incorporated.
The IRIS-T (Infrared Imaging System Tail-Thrust Vector Controlled), developed as a successor to the AIM-9L/M Sidewinder, is compatible with various fighter models, including the Eurofighter Typhoon, Gripen, F-16, EF-18, F-5, and Tornado. Planned integration on the upcoming KF-21 fighter from Korean Aerospace Industries further illustrates the system’s adaptability and dependability. This enhanced collaboration between RTAF and Diehl Defence represents a significant advancement in Thailand’s air defense modernization efforts.
(Source: AvioNews)
