BANGKOK, Thailand – Thailand’s Deputy Minister of Defense dismissed reports that Sweden may halt a Gripen jet sale over past border unrest, expressing confidence the procurement will not be affected.
Deputy Minister of Defense General Nattaphon Narkphanit addressed reports from Cambodian and Malaysian media suggesting Sweden would suspend its contract to sell Gripen aircraft to Thailand. The reports cited the use of the jets during past unrest along the Thai-Cambodian border as the reason for the potential suspension. General Nattaphon clarified he has not yet received an official report on the matter. However, he expressed confidence that no issues would arise, emphasizing the positive diplomatic relationship between Thailand and Sweden. (NNT)
