Royal Thai Navy to Upgrade Two Chao Phraya class Frigates

06 Agustus 2020

Royal Thai Navy operates four Type 053HT Jianghu class frigate : HTMS Chao Phraya 455, HTMS Bangpakong 456, HTMS Kraburi 457, HTMS Saiburi 458 (photo : HTMS Chao Phraya) 

HMTS Chao Phraya (No. 455) and HMTS Bang Pakong (No. 456), which was ordered from China and stationed in the Royal Thai Navy in 1991, currently has 29 years of age, still remaining 11 years of age, and is still an important for of the naval fleet.

The Frigate Fleet 2 therefore has the idea to improve both HMTS Chao Phraya and HMTS Bang Pakong ships as main combat forces with the same operational capability as the OPV in response to current threats and other missions which will be improved by changing the main gun from 100 mm to a more advanced 76/62 automatic gun, replacing all four 37 mm guns with a 30 mm gun with a higher speed rate of fire and more accuracy.

Changed combat management systems and surveillance systems that are better able to find and prove ground and water targets. Able to control the firearm system efficiently.

HTMS Bang Pakong 456 (photo : US Navy)

There is a tactical data exchange system (Tacical Data Link) that can connect to other major ships. Including electronic warfare (ESM: Electronic Support Measures) to prevent being intercepted to the desired target. 

In the stern area, the 100 mm gun was removed. The area was adjusted for multi-purpose use. For supporting the installation of multiple operating modules such as a set of containers, search rescue missions, submarine search mission, container set mission, oil stain remover etc. 

All of this will enable HMTS Chao Phraya and HMTS Bang Pakong to adjust their mission. More diverse in accordance with various situations, including current threats and effectively help the public.

See full article AAG