US rejects Thailand's request to buy F-35 fifth-generation fighter jets, but offers F-15E or F-16V in exchange

Thailand wanted to order fifth-generation F-35 Lightning II fighter jets for the Royal Air Force. However, the US rejected the request. Nevertheless, the Pentagon is offering two alternatives at once.

Here's What We Know

Robert F Gordec, the US ambassador to Thailand, has spoken about the rejection of the request. He recently met with Alongkorn Wannarot, commander-in-chief of the Royal Thai Air Force.

According to the ambassador, the US State Department believes that Thailand does not have sufficient infrastructure to support the F-35. It is a question of runways, maintenance facilities and the level of security of air bases. At the same time, the USA is ready to consider the request again in 5-10 years.

An official response to the request will be given in July this year. Despite reluctance to sell fifth-generation fighters, the United States will not leave Thailand without new aircrafts. As an alternative, the Asian country will be able to order fourth-generation F-15E Strike Eagle or F-16 Fighting Falcon fighters upgraded to Block 70/72.

Source: Shephard Media