The Royal Thai Air Force will send its Gripen fighter jet to join the Singapore Airshow, marking its first presence in Asia's most recognised showcase of aircraft and pilots' skills.
Natthawut Duangsungnoen, deputy chief of Surat Thani-based Wing 7, will pilot the Gripen 39C/D during the show between Tuesday and Feb 11, according to the air force.
Group Captain Nattawut is noted for his skill in guiding the fighter jet, which has earned him a top pilot honour from the air force.
Singapore Airshow, which has been held every two years since 2008, is one of the biggest airshows in Asia.
Countries invited to participate must meet the host's criteria which is highly selective. Participation is regarded as an honour.
A green light granted by Singaporean aviation agencies will be a proof of their standards.
This is not only an opportunity to make Thailand better known in the field of aviation, but is valuable experience for the pilots and accompanying officers, the air force said.
They will gain experience from relocating the aircraft and how they perform in the airshow can used to measure their pilot and management capabilities.
The challenges will spur the air force officers into improving their work.
Air force chief ACM Johm Rungswang will join the Singapore Airshow tomorrow, according to the air force.