The aircraft are intended to replace American F-16 planes that have been in service since 1988.
The statement from the Thai air force does not specify how many planes are involved or the budget for the deal, according to the news agency Bloomberg.
A final decision from the Thai government is expected shortly.
We can confirm that the Thai air force has announced that they have chosen Gripen. This is, of course, extremely positive for Saab and Sweden, says Mattias Rådström, press chief at Saab, to TT.
But there is no contract yet, it's too early to say when it will be finalized.
Possible Counter-Purchase
Thailand has previously purchased twelve Gripen planes but is now looking to replace twelve other F-16 planes in the coming years.
"We have received information that the Thai air force recommends Gripen. This is, of course, pleasing. The government is ready to support Saab in the next step of the procurement process", writes Defense Minister Pål Jonson to TT.
It is unknown what the purchasing requirements between the two parties will look like. Martin Lundmark, lecturer in defense systems at the Defense University, says he assumes that there will be counter-purchases involved.
But counter-purchases don't have to mean buying gadgets. It can also be a commitment to transfer technology, educate and manufacture in the country. That's something that the purchasing country values, he says.
Directs Criticism
But not everyone views a sale positively.
"It is irresponsible of Sweden to arm a country that was classified as a dictatorship as recently as last year and has been plagued by political instability, military coups, and armed conflict for decades", says Kerstin Bergeå, chairperson of the Swedish Peace and Arbitration Society in a press release.
