Confussed

Hi guys, reading in DID earlier that Thailand has opted to buy the Gripen as a replacement for the F-5’s in RTAF service, though due to ecconomic constraints only 6 will be bought now and a further 6 later on down the track.

Looking up confirmation on this subject I come across conflicting reports that up to 20 are to be bought to replace the F-16’s in front line service and the F-16’s will then replace the F-5’s.

Can someone out there clear this mess up, please.
How many are to be bought both initially and all up?
What role are they going to undertake and in turn which aircraft will they replace?

Please don’t refer me to the Gripen international page as I have been there and it only says that Thailand has selected the Gripen, nothing more.

One final question, would anyone care to speculate on the Thai Gripens look? Will it be camo, grey or grey white? Any “What if” people out there on this board, care to do a few pics on these.