IWI Mengirimkan Sistem Anti-drone Arbel ke Thailand

26 Oktober 2026

Sistem anti-drone IWI Arbel yang dipasang pada senapan serbu (photos: IWI) 

Israel Weapon Industries (IWI) menyatakan telah mengirimkan sistem anti-drone Arbel kepada Kementerian Pertahanan (Kemhan) Thailand. Pada tanggal 22 Oktober, perusahaan tersebut menyampaikan bahwa sistem tersebut telah dikerahkan oleh militer Thailand dan “kini telah beroperasi, baik untuk penggunaan siang maupun malam hari”.

IWI menjelaskan bahwa mereka memasang Arbel pada senapan milik militer Thailand yang sudah ada dengan cara mengganti bagian *lower receiver* (komponen rangka bawah) senapan tersebut. Menurut perusahaan, pendekatan ini memungkinkan pengguna untuk meningkatkan kemampuan senjata yang sudah digunakan tanpa perlu mengadakan senapan baru.

Menanggapi pertanyaan dari Janes, IWI mengidentifikasi senapan yang dimaksud sebagai jenis M4 dan menyatakan bahwa proses pengiriman serta pemasangan telah rampung pada Juni 2026. Perusahaan tidak mengungkapkan jumlah sistem yang dikirimkan, nilai kontrak, maupun matra atau unit militer yang mengoperasikannya.

IWI juga menyebutkan bahwa para pejabat militer Thailand sedang mendiskusikan kemungkinan pemesanan tambahan untuk sistem Arbel. Namun, tidak ada rincian lebih lanjut mengenai rencana pembelian tersebut.

Arbel merupakan sistem kendali tembakan terkomputerisasi yang dirancang untuk membantu pengguna senapan dalam membidik pesawat nirawak (drone) berukuran kecil yang sedang bergerak. Tembakan pertama dilakukan secara mekanis; sementara jika pengguna tetap menekan pelatuk, sistem akan mengatur waktu untuk tembakan-tembakan berikutnya, demikian menurut IWI.

Sistem ini menggunakan amunisi standar 5,56 mm dan tidak memerlukan alat bidik khusus. IWI juga menawarkan konfigurasi Arbel untuk senapan mesin ringan Negev produksi mereka, sebagaimana dilaporkan oleh Janes pada November 2025.

SK Group, perusahaan induk IWI, telah mengidentifikasi Thailand sebagai calon pelanggan pertama di kawasan Asia-Pasifik pada November 2025. Saat itu, wakil presiden regional SK Group, Doron Korol, menyampaikan kepada Janes bahwa Thailand berpotensi mengakuisisi sistem Arbel pada tahun 2026.

(Jane's)

Contract Signing for the Procurement of Support Vehicles for Self-Propelled Howitzer Systems Between Chaiseri/TDI and SHAFLEENA (Malaysia)

23 Oktober 2026

Signing of contract between TDI and Shafleena (photo: Sompong Nondhasa)

On October 20, General Napont Sangsomwong, Chairman of the Board of the Defence Technology Institute (DTI), had the honor of witnessing the signing of a contract for the procurement of support vehicles for the CAESAR self-propelled howitzer system for the Malaysian Army. The ceremony took place at the Grand Ballroom of the Chatrium Grand Hotel, Bangkok.

The agreement marks a collaborative effort within the defense industry between Chaiseri Metal & Rubber Co., Ltd. / Thai Defence Industry Co., Ltd. (TDI) - represented by Managing Director Mr. Karn Kulhiran - and the Malaysian firm SHAFLEENA Sdn. Bhd., represented by its Managing Director, Dato’ Shafii Hj Roshad.

Total of 34 vehicles will be provided by Chaiseri/TDI (image: TDI)

This procurement project is part of an initiative to enhance the operational capabilities of the Malaysian Army’s CAESAR self-propelled howitzer systems. It involves a total of 34 vehicles across five categories: Ammunition Supply Vehicles (ASV), Forward Repair Vehicles (FRV), Fire Control Coordinating Vehicles (FCC), Medium Recovery Vehicles (MRV), and JACKAL 4x4 armored forward reconnaissance vehicles.

Furthermore, the signing ceremony... Held as part of the 93rd-anniversary celebrations of the Malaysian Armed Forces, the event was presided over by H.E. Datuk Wan Zaidi Wan Abdullah, Ambassador of Malaysia to Thailand.

Jackal 4x4 (photo: Defense Info)

This occasion serves to further strengthen the relationship and security cooperation between Thailand and Malaysia, as well as to foster the development of the defense industry in both nations.

(DTI Thailand)

Angkatan Udara Thailand Berencana Melanjutkan Tahap Kedua Pembelian Jet Tempur Gripen dengan Anggaran 2027

15 Oktober 2026

Pesawat tempur JAS-39 Gripen RTAF (photo: Sukasom Hiranpram)

BANGKOK – Angkatan Udara Kerajaan Thailand berencana melanjutkan tahap kedua proyek pengadaan jet tempur Gripen, dengan pendanaan yang telah dimasukkan dalam anggaran tahun fiskal 2027, demikian disampaikan Kepala Staf Angkatan Udara, ACM Seksan Khantha, pada hari Senin.

Dalam pernyataannya pada 12 Oktober, Seksan mengatakan bahwa pengadaan tersebut bertujuan untuk memperkuat kemampuan pertahanan Thailand dalam menghadapi potensi ancaman. Ia menegaskan bahwa pesawat tempur berawak tetap diperlukan karena pengambilan keputusan krusial dalam situasi yang kompleks masih membutuhkan penilaian manusia, khususnya saat harus mempertimbangkan risiko hidup-mati.

Ia mengatakan bahwa personel Angkatan Udara akan dilatih untuk mengoperasikan teknologi yang semakin canggih guna meningkatkan efektivitas pengambilan keputusan. Oleh karena itu, pesawat berawak akan terus memainkan peran penting dalam kemampuan tempur negara tersebut.

Seksan menyatakan bahwa kualitas dan jumlah pesawat harus memadai untuk melindungi kedaulatan Thailand. Proyek ini juga harus mencakup alih teknologi, pelatihan personel, dan pengembangan infrastruktur guna memastikan kesiapan negara dalam mempertahankan wilayah udaranya dari potensi ancaman.

Ia menyebutkan bahwa tujuannya adalah untuk memastikan wilayah-wilayah strategis dapat terlindungi dari serangan jika terjadi perang.

Angkatan Udara memperkirakan akan menerima pesawat Gripen dari tahap kedua proyek pengadaan tersebut pada tahun 2029.

(KhaosodNews)

Handover Ceremony for Riverine Patrol Crafts L.11–L.16

09 Oktober 2026

Handover Ceremony for six Riverine Patrol Crafts (photos: Marsun Shipyard)

On September 16, 2026, the Riverine Squadron of the Royal Thai Fleet held a handover ceremony for six riverine patrol crafts (hull numbers L.11–L.16). Admiral Korawit Chayarathee, Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Fleet, presided over the ceremony, accompanied by Vice Admiral Suchat Nuchnart, Deputy Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Fleet.

Rear Admiral Sakkarapop Prachaksupaniti, Commander of the Riverine Squadron, and Mr. Patrawin Jongvisal, CEO of Marsun Public Company Limited, welcomed the attendees.

The L.11–L.16 series of riverine patrol crafts was constructed by Marsun Public Company Limited. With over 46 years of experience in shipbuilding and repair, the company has constructed and delivered more than 360 vessels to both domestic and international government agencies and private sector clients.

Its portfolio encompasses a wide range of vessels, including gunboats, high-speed patrol boats, guided-missile patrol boats, oil spill response vessels, crew transfer vessels for oil rigs, and crew transfer vessels for the offshore wind farm industry, among others.

Specifically regarding high-speed patrol boats in the 10-meter class, the company has successfully built and delivered over 58 units to government agencies, a track record that truly reflects its expertise and capability in constructing this type of vessel.

These six riverine high-speed patrol boats are intended to bolster the Royal Thai Navy’s capabilities. Their primary missions include patrolling and providing security for riverine and coastal areas; preventing infiltration and enforcing laws along waterways and coastlines; tracking and intercepting suspicious vessels; ensuring maritime security; and conducting search and rescue operations for those in distress on the water.

All six vessels have successfully completed both dockside and sea trials, achieving an average maximum speed of 43 knots—exceeding the contractual requirement of at least 40 knots. These results demonstrate the vessels' performance and readiness to effectively support the Riverine Squadron’s surveillance, security, and operational missions in riverine environments. 

(Marsun Shipyard)

Thailand Terus Kebut Pembangunan Dermaga untuk Kapal Selam S26T dari CSOC, China

08 Oktober 2026

Fasilitas dermaga kapal selam beserta gedung pendukungnya dibangun di Dermaga Laem Thian, Pangkalan Angkatan Laut Sattahip (Chonburi) (photos: Kapitan Nemo)

Sekilas tentang kemajuan pembangunan dok kapal selam S26T, Fase 2, yang telah diambil alih oleh Ethic Design and Construction Co., Ltd. Proyek ini sekarang mulai terbentuk dan diharapkan selesai tepat waktu untuk proyek kapal selam S26T pada awal tahun 2029. 

Perusahaan ini tampaknya memiliki rekam jejak proyek konstruksi untuk Angkatan Laut Kerajaan Thailand, seperti perluasan Pangkalan Angkatan Laut Phang Nga dan pembangunan landasan pendaratan kapal.

Angkatan Laut Kerajaan Thailand memulai pembangunan dok kapal selam dan bangunan pendukung, Fase 1, pada tahun 2020, khusus untuk CSOC. Fase 2, yang direncanakan untuk tahun 2022, kemudian dikerjakan oleh perusahaan Thailand, Port and Marine Corporation Limited. 

Namun, proyek konstruksi mengalami beberapa penundaan (tidak terkait dengan penundaan yang disebabkan oleh penggantian mesin diesel kapal selam), sehingga diperlukan perubahan perusahaan konstruksi. Untungnya, proyek kapal selam S26T juga tertunda hampir 6 tahun; Jika tidak, kapal selam yang datang dari China mungkin tidak akan memiliki dok karena belum selesai dibangun.

(KapitanNemo)

Personil RTAF Ikuti Pelatihan Sistem Radar Indra Lanza

07 Oktober 2026

Pelatihan sistem radar Lanza di Indra Sistemas, Spanyol (photos: Thai Embassy in Madrid)

Angkatan Udara Kerajaan Thailand (RTAF) meningkatkan kesiapan personelnya dalam sistem radar sebelum pengujian penerimaan pabrik di Spanyol.

Mulai tanggal 6 hingga 26 September 2026, Kapten Yutthanavee Mungthanya, Atase Angkatan Laut/Madrid dan Pelaksana Tugas Atase Militer/Madrid, bersama dengan personel dari kantor tersebut, menyambut dan memfasilitasi personel RTAF yang mengikuti pelatihan Inspeksi Sistem OJT (Sebelum FAT).

Para peserta termasuk Komandan Wing Saranchai Maisuk, Komandan Wing Jare Othong, dan Letnan Kolonel Kraisorn Kingthong, di Indra Sistemas, Spanyol.

Pelatihan ini bertujuan untuk meningkatkan pengetahuan dan keterampilan personel RTAF dalam inspeksi, pengoperasian, dan pemeliharaan sistem radar, sebagai persiapan untuk Factory Acceptance Test (FAT) dengan personel perusahaan di pabrik Indra Sistemas.

Pada kesempatan ini, Atase Angkatan Laut/Madrid mengadakan makan malam di kediamannya untuk mempererat hubungan baik antar personel Thailand yang bertugas di luar negeri.

Kegiatan ini merupakan bagian dari upaya kolaboratif untuk mendukung dan mengkoordinasikan pelatihan dan penerimaan peralatan antara lembaga-lembaga Thailand dan produsen di Kerajaan Spanyol. Tujuannya adalah untuk memastikan bahwa personel memiliki pengetahuan dan kesiapan untuk tugas mereka, dan untuk menerapkan pengetahuan dan pengalaman yang diperoleh pada misi Angkatan Udara Kerajaan Thailand.

(Attache Madrid)

The Launching Ceremony of New Tugboat of the Royal Thai Navy

03 Oktober 2026

The Royal Thai Navy (RTN) held launching ceremony of the new Tug boat "Sattahip Commercial Port-RTN 26" at Asian Marine Service PCL (ASIMAR) shipyard in Samut Prakan Province (photos: Royal Thai Navy)

The Royal Thai Navy launched its new tugboat, HTMS-RTN.26, at the shipyard of Asian Marine Services PCL (ASIMAR) in Laem Fa Pha Subdistrict, Phra Samut Chedi District, Samut Prakan Province on September 24, 2026. 

This is another example of the Royal Thai Navy's continued support of the domestic shipbuilding industry by Thai private sector companies.

The ceremony was presided over by Admiral Pairoj Fuengchan, Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Navy, along with Mrs. Ariya Fuengchan, President of the Royal Thai Navy Wives Association, and other dignitaries. The keel-laying ceremony for the tugboat, HTMS-RTN.26, measuring 31.5m in length, 12.6m in width, with a draft of 5.49m and a displacement of 35 tonnes, took place at the ASIMAR shipyard in Thailand on November 21, 2025. 

The new tugboat, model HTMS-RTN.26, has a minimum power of 3,000 horsepower, a maximum speed of 12.1 knots, and an operational range of at least 1,000 nautical miles at 8 knots at full displacement. It is also capable of withstanding sea conditions up to Sea State 3. This new vessel is intended for use at Sattahip Commercial Port, Royal Thai Navy, as part of the port's modernization development.

(AAG)

Signing a Military Assistance Agreement and Accelerating of the S26T Submarine Project

02 Oktober 2026

Model of S26T submarine (photo: Asian Military Review)

Rear Admiral Parach Rattanachaiyapan, spokesperson for the Royal Thai Navy, revealed that on September 16, 2026, Lieutenant General Adul Boonthamcharoen, Minister of Defence of Thailand, and Admiral Dong Jun, Minister of National Defence of the People's Republic of China, witnessed the signing ceremony of an agreement on military assistance to support the Royal Thai Navy's S26T submarine procurement project.

In this regard, Admiral Nares Wongtrakul, Assistant Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Navy and Chairman of the Submarine Procurement Project Executive Committee, signed the agreement on behalf of the Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Navy on behalf of the Royal Thai Armed Forces Command at the Beijing International Convention Center (BICC) during the 13th Beijing Xiangshan Forum in Beijing, People's Republic of China.

This signing marks a significant step forward in the S26T submarine procurement project and represents a tangible achievement in military cooperation between the armed forces of both countries, which attach great importance to and jointly support the project. 

To ensure the Royal Thai Navy has effective submarines that are operationally ready and can be commissioned as planned, thereby strengthening national defense capabilities and safeguarding national maritime interests in the long term.

In accordance with the contract amendment in September 2025, the Chinese-made S26T submarine ordered by Thailand is scheduled to be delivered by the end of 2028 (photo: RTN)

Throughout this process, the Royal Thai Navy has closely supervised, monitored, and driven the project's implementation, prioritizing coordination between the two countries, resolving issues that might affect the plan, and safeguarding the interests of the Royal Thai Navy and the nation. This ensures the project's continuous progress and achievement of its goals within the stipulated timeframe.

Following the signing, the Royal Thai Navy will closely monitor the implementation in cooperation with relevant agencies of the People's Republic of China, and expedite project management in all aspects, including technical aspects, construction, system testing, personnel training, and logistical readiness. 

The goal is to deliver the submarines on schedule, or even faster if possible, provided that all contract terms, technical standards, and safety requirements are fully met.

The Royal Thai Navy affirmed that it will manage the project with prudence, transparency, and accountability, continuously monitoring progress to ensure the S26T submarines are at their peak performance and readiness before commissioning. This will effectively enhance national defense capabilities, maintain sovereignty, and protect national maritime interests. 

The success of this project will be further important evidence reflecting the tangible friendship, trust, and cooperation between the armed forces of the two countries.

(RTN)

Thailand Berencana Memesan Gelombang Ketiga Kendaraan Amfibi Chaiseri AWAV 8x8

01 Oktober 2026

Jika Korps Marinir Thailand mengakuisisi seluruh kebutuhan kendaraan amfibinya dengan AWAV 8x8, maka akan ada total 36 kendaraan, berarti masih ada 15 kendaraan yang perlu diakuisisi, yang mungkin akan diperoleh secara bertahap hingga jumlah yang dibutuhkan tercapai (photos: RTMC)

Angkatan Laut Kerajaan Thailand (RTN) berencana mengadakan gelombang ketiga yang terdiri dari tujuh unit Kendaraan Amfibi Beroda Lapis Baja (AWAV) Chaiseri 8×8, sehingga total pesanan kendaraan oleh angkatan tersebut menjadi 21 unit.

Dalam rencana pengadaan yang dipublikasikan pada 24 September, RTN menyatakan bahwa pesanan baru ini bernilai THB504 juta (USD15 juta).

Langkah ini menyusul dua pesanan sebelumnya yang masing-masing mencakup tujuh unit AWAV. Kontrak awal senilai THB448 juta diberikan pada Agustus 2023, dan kendaraan-kendaraan tersebut diserahkan kepada Korps Marinir Kerajaan Thailand (RTMC) pada September 2024.

Pengadaan kedua, yang juga mencakup tujuh kendaraan, dimulai pada Februari 2026 dengan anggaran THB504 juta. Menurut informasi yang diperoleh Janes, total kebutuhan pengadaan ini mencapai 36 kendaraan.

Unit-unit AWAV yang telah diserahkan sejauh ini ditempatkan di Batalyon Kendaraan Amfibi Serbu RTMC di Sattahip. Batalyon tersebut juga mengoperasikan kendaraan amfibi serbu AAV7A1 buatan AS dan kendaraan tempur infanteri amfibi BTR-3E1 asal Ukraina.

Chaiseri memperkenalkan AWAV dalam pameran Defense & Security di Bangkok pada tahun 2023 setelah mengembangkan kendaraan tersebut melalui kerja sama dengan RTMC. AWAV merupakan kendaraan militer 8×8 pertama buatan Chaiseri.

Menurut Chaiseri, AWAV memiliki panjang 9,2 m, lebar 3,1 m, dan tinggi 3 m, dengan berat kotor sekitar 25,7 ton. Didukung oleh mesin bertenaga 711 hp, kendaraan ini memiliki kecepatan maksimum 105 km/jam di darat dan 10 km/jam di air, serta jarak tempuh sejauh 600 km.

Kendaraan ini mampu mengangkut 11 personel pasukan selain tiga orang awak yang terdiri dari pengemudi, komandan, dan penembak. Konfigurasi dasarnya memberikan perlindungan balistik STANAG 4569 Level 3 serta perlindungan terhadap ranjau Level 3a/3b.

(Jane's)

Elbit Systems Mengirimkan Munisi D11A ke Thailand

30 September 2026

D11A adalah sistem peluncur roket ganda (multi-purpose self-propelled multiple rocket launcher) hasil kerja sama antara Thailand dan Elbit Systems, Israel (photo: Deepbluesea)

Reporter urusan militer Thailand, Wassana Nanuam, melaporkan bahwa perusahaan pertahanan Israel, Elbit Systems, telah mengirimkan amunisi roket D11A ke Thailand, termasuk sistem dengan jangkauan yang dilaporkan hingga 450 km.

Ia mengatakan roket-roket tersebut telah diserahkan kepada Angkatan Darat Kerajaan Thailand untuk persiapan jika diperlukan.

Wassana juga melaporkan bahwa China telah mengirimkan munisi DTI 1G ke Thailand. (Khaosod)

Mengapa roket D11A dapat memiliki jangkauan hingga 450 km?

Menyusul perdebatan tentang rudal D11A, yang diteliti, dikembangkan, dan diproduksi bersama oleh Defence Technology Institute (DTI) dan Israel, dengan jangkauan hingga 450 km, dan setelah laporan bahwa Israel telah mengirimkan berbagai rudal dengan jangkauan berbeda ke Angkatan Darat Kerajaan Thailand,

informasi dari DTI menunjukkan bahwa jangkauan 450 km dari D11A berarti bahwa dengan menambahkan perpanjangan jangkauan 150 km ke amunisi jangkauan 300 km, ia dapat mencapai hingga 450 km. Namun, kita mungkin tidak membutuhkan jangkauan 450 km; itu adalah kemampuan, karena 300 km sudah cukup untuk mencapai target penting, jantung musuh.

DTI 1G adalah sistem peluncur roket ganda berpandu berkaliber besar milik dari Thailand yang dikembangkan melalui kerja sama alih teknologi dengan China (photo: Oryx)

Karena meskipun Angkatan Darat Kerajaan Thailand membeli rudal Himars dari AS di masa depan, belum dipastikan apakah AS akan menjual amunisi dengan jangkauan 300 km.

Namun Angkatan Darat Kerajaan Thailand sudah memiliki rudal D11A dengan jangkauan 300 km dalam stok.

Laporan menunjukkan bahwa lebih banyak rudal D11A sedang diproduksi saat ini. 

(Wassana Nanuam)

8 Helikopter AH-6i Telah Tiba di Thailand

29 September 2026

Delapan helikopter Boeing AH-6i dikirim menggunakan kapal kargo telah sampai ke pelabuhan Laem Chabang (photo ssv: wuthi11_)

Akhirnya, delapan helikopter serang ringan Boeing AH-6i yang dipesan oleh Angkatan Darat Kerajaan Thailand (Royal Thai Army) telah diserahterimakan.

Thailand mungkin merupakan pelanggan terakhir AH-6i dari Boeing, namun laporan mengenai rencana RTA untuk memesan 8 unit lagi tahun depan menimbulkan pertanyaan apakah produksinya benar-benar telah berakhir.

(wuthi11_)

Thailand Orders Indra's Lanza 3D Long Range Radar for Phuket Air Base

28 September 2026

Lanza 3D new long-range radar will be deployed at Phuket Air Base (photo: Indra)

Indra to Strengthen Thailand’s Air Surveillance with a New Long-range LANZA 3D Radar

Indra will strengthen Thailand’s air surveillance and control capabilities with the deployment of a new long-range Lanza 3D radar at Phuket Air Base.

Located opposite one of the most important maritime routes between the Indian Ocean and the Strait of Malacca, this base occupies a position of significant strategic value. Indra’s radar will help reinforce airspace surveillance and control operations in an environment that is key to regional security.

With this contract, Indra consolidates its position as a trusted technology partner of the Royal Thai Air Force and the country’s Armed Forces, which already operate several types of systems supplied by the company. It is also the third long-range LANZA 3D radar contracted from Indra by the Thai Air Force, reflecting the customer’s confidence in a solution that has already been operationally proven.

This new award gives continuity to Thailand’s air surveillance capability modernization program and reinforces Indra’s role as a long-term partner.

The new contract was recently signed at Indra’s headquarters in Madrid, during a visit by Thai authorities who travelled to see the facilities where the company develops some of the most advanced defence technologies, which are set to shape the future of the sector in the coming years, as well as the systems to be delivered under this agreement.

The Lanza 3D LRR radar offers a high long-range detection capability against different types of threats, from small, slow-moving drones to stealth aircraft, projectiles and different types of missiles. These systems are specifically designed to operate in adverse atmospheric environments and high-humidity conditions thanks to their operation in the L band. They also provide a high capacity to operate in saturated scenarios and withstand interference. The new award confirms international confidence in the Lanza radar family, a mature and proven technology used by countries around the world and by organizations such as NATO in some of the most demanding scenarios.

The contract also includes command and control capabilities based on Indra’s AIRDEF system, expanding the operational capabilities of the solution and reinforcing its integrated nature.

Indra is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of military and civil radars and a leader in the development of this technology. Its knowledge and experience have enabled it to develop a broad range of systems tailored to the specific needs of each situation, operating environment and end user. All its systems are also characterized by their high level of digitalization and ability to interoperate and integrate as part of other systems to ensure maximum protection. Air surveillance capabilities have become one of the main assets for the defence of any country in recent years, especially with the emergence of drones and saturation attacks that require the simultaneous detection and neutralization of a large number of targets.

(IndraGroup)

The Ministry of Defense Orders the Decommissioning of 10 Navy Ships

26 September 2026

Royal Thai Navy Tapi Class Anti-Submarine Corvette, HTMS Khirirat (FF-432) (photo: Defensopedia)

On September 24, 2026, the Ministry of Defence issued an order to decommission ships that are no longer cost-effective. This follows the signing of an order by Lieutenant General Adul Boonthamcharoen, Minister of Defence, on September 23, 2026, to retire several Royal Thai Navy vessels from active service, effective October 1, 2026. This decision was made because some ships have been in service for a long time, are in dilapidated condition, and require high maintenance costs compared to the benefits of continued use

.

The released list includes: HTMS Khirirat (frigate), HTMS Similan (large supply ship), HTMS Suk and HTMS Chanthra (large survey ships), Patrol Boats T.81, T.82, and T.83 (coastal patrol vessels), Patrol Boat T.243 (coastal patrol vessel), and River Patrol Boats L.K.15 and L.141, totaling 10 vessels.

HTMS Similian (AOE 871) replenishment oiler (photo: GlobalSecurity)

HTMS Khirirat (hull number 432) is the longest-serving ship in its class, having been commissioned on August 10, 1974, after being built by a US company. It is currently approximately 52 years old, and the 1st Frigate Squadron has announced plans to decommission it on September 28, 2026, marking the end of a warship's service after more than half a century.

As for HTMS Similan, it is a large supply ship, not a vessel over 50 years old as some reports suggest. According to publicly available information from the Royal Thai Navy, it was commissioned on August 12, 1996, making it approximately 30 years old. Therefore, this decommissioning reflects an assessment of the ship's condition and cost-effectiveness for maintenance on a case-by-case basis, not solely based on age.

HTMS Suk 812 large survey vessels (photo: murphygodzilla)

While HTMS Suk and HTMS Chanthra are large survey vessels tasked with maritime exploration, HTMS T.81, T.82, T.83, and T.243 are patrol vessels used for security and surveillance in coastal areas. HTMS L.K.15 and L.141 are smaller river patrol vessels. Therefore, the decommissioning encompasses both large vessels and those supporting specific area missions.

The primary reason, according to the Ministry of Defense's order, was the deteriorated condition of the ships due to prolonged official service. Repairs were expensive and not cost-effective for continued use. Therefore, the approach was changed from using budget funds to repair old ships to managing naval forces in accordance with available missions and resources.

HTMS Chanthara 811 large survey vessels (photo Teachers)

After decommissioning, the Royal Thai Navy plans to follow the regulations of the Ministry of Finance by auctioning the ships. If they cannot be sold, they may be dismantled and their parts sold, with the proceeds returned to the treasury. For any unsold wreckage, the Royal Thai Navy may consider donating it to government agencies, such as for the construction of artificial reefs, subject to the relevant procedures and regulations.

This decommissioning, therefore, does not mean the end of all naval missions, but rather the gradual removal of older vessels or those that are no longer cost-effective to repair. The Royal Thai Navy must manage its force structure and support vessels to align with future missions, especially under budgetary constraints and the high cost of maintaining older ships.

Tor T.81 patrol vessel (photo: ThaiSeaFearer)

For HTMS Khirirat, which has a service history spanning over five decades, its decommissioning on October 1st will mark a significant turning point for the Royal Thai Navy's older frigates. The subsequent procedures for managing government assets will then follow.

(ChiangMaiNews)

Royal Thai Aviation Army Recived Delivery of Four Black Hawk Helicopters

23 September 2026

Four UH-60M Black Hawk joined the 9th Aviation Battalion (photos: Thai Army Aviation)

On September 18, 2026, the 9th Aviation Battalion held a ceremony to accept delivery of four UH-60M helicopters.

The Commander of the Army Aviation Center presided over the event, attended by the command team and personnel of the 9th Aviation Battalion.

This delivery marks another significant milestone in enhancing the unit's operational capabilities and advancing Army aviation potential, ensuring combat readiness to support the Royal Thai Army's missions.

(Thai Aviation Army)

Program Fregat Baru Thailand Mengarah pada Kapal Kombatan dengan Kemampuan Serangan Darat

22 September 2026

Fregat baru yang ditawarkan Hanwha Ocean kepada Angkatan Laut Kerajaan Thailand (RTN) (image: Hanwha Ocean)

Fregat masa depan Angkatan Laut Kerajaan Thailand (RTN) akan memiliki kemampuan untuk melaksanakan operasi serangan darat dan penanggulangan sistem udara tak berawak (C-UAS), selain menjalankan misi peperangan laut.

Gambar hasil rekayasa komputer yang diberikan kepada Janes oleh Hanwha Ocean memberikan indikasi rinci pertama mengenai bagaimana persyaratan tersebut dapat diimplementasikan dalam desain yang telah dipilih.

Dalam pernyataan tertanggal 18 September yang mengonfirmasi pemilihan Hanwha Ocean sebagai kontraktor utama fregat tersebut, RTN menguraikan persyaratan kemampuan di tiga bidang utama peperangan laut: peperangan permukaan, peperangan anti-kapal selam, dan pertahanan udara.

Pihak angkatan laut juga mencatat bahwa fregat tersebut akan mampu melaksanakan misi serangan darat, menangkal sistem udara tak berawak, serta mendukung operasi komando dan kendali, *datalink*, dan operasi gabungan.

Kemampuan-kemampuan ini akan secara signifikan meningkatkan opsi serangan permukaan yang dimiliki RTN.

Fregat baru yang ditawarkan Hanwha Ocean kepada Angkatan Laut Kerajaan Thailand (RTN) (image: Royal Thai Navy)

Persyaratan yang digariskan oleh RTN tampak selaras dengan konfigurasi yang digambarkan dalam visualisasi yang diberikan kepada Janes oleh Hanwha Ocean.

Gambar tersebut memperlihatkan desain fregat dengan karakteristik *low-observable* (sulit dideteksi) yang dilengkapi dengan meriam laut di bagian depan, baterai sistem peluncuran vertikal (VLS) yang ditempatkan di depan anjungan, serta peluncur rudal anti-kapal di bagian tengah kapal.

Namun, baik Hanwha Ocean maupun RTN belum menyebutkan jenis rudal apa yang akan dipasang pada fregat tersebut.

Gambar itu juga memperlihatkan beberapa bukaan yang lebih kecil, antena komunikasi, dan perangkat elektro-optik yang tersebar di sekitar tiang kapal dan bangunan atas (*superstructure*).

Tepat di depan anjungan kapal terdapat dudukan (*pedestal*) yang dapat menampung kubah senjata *Close-In Weapon System* (CIWS) dan efektor non-kinetik untuk menangkal UAS.

Bagian buritan kapal dilengkapi dengan dek penerbangan yang ukurannya memadai untuk helikopter angkatan laut kelas menengah serta apa yang tampak sebagai hanggar yang mampu menampung dua unit helikopter.

(Jane's)

The 74th SEAEX THAMAL Joint Maritime Exercise between Thai and Malaysian Maritime Security Agencies

18 September 2026

The 74th SEAEX THAMAL Joint Maritime Exercise (photos: Royal Thai Navy)

On September 15, 2026, the Second Naval Area Command—through the Thai-Malaysian joint maritime exercise task group—conducted exercises in the waters spanning from Songkhla Province, Thailand, to Kuantan, Pahang, Malaysia.

A total of eight naval vessels and 133 personnel from both nations participated. The Thai contingent included HTMS Thayan Chon, Patrol Boat T.995, Patrol Boat T.111 (from the Second Naval Area Command), and Marine Police Boat RN.817.

The Malaysian contingent included KD Handalan and KD Sri Sabah (Royal Malaysian Navy), KM Amanah (Malaysian Maritime Enforcement Agency), and Marine Police Boat PA6. Exercise activities included screen maneuvering, parallel sailing, formation maneuvering, and visual signaling (using international signal lamps).

Earlier, on September 11, 2026, Rear Admiral Pisit Jaturatkornpat, Deputy Commander of the Second Naval Area Command (representing the Commander of the Second Naval Area Command), and Rear Admiral Dato’ Azman bin Rabani, Commander of Naval Area 1 (Royal Malaysian Navy), presided over the closing ceremony of the 74th SEAEX THAMAL exercise at Kuantan Naval Base, Naval Area 1 Command, Kuantan, Pahang, Malaysia.

(Royal Thai Navy)

DTI Thailand Delivers 5.56x45 mm Carbines to the Thai Military

15 September 2026

5.56x45 mm Carbines for Thai military (photos: DTI)

On September 3, 2026, the Defence Technology Institute (DTI) held a handover ceremony for 5.56mm carbines to the Royal Thai Armed Forces Headquarters, the Royal Thai Army, the Royal Thai Navy, and the Royal Thai Air Force for use in security missions. General Dr. Charat Umsamrit, Director of DTI, presided over the handover. The event was honored by the presence of General Napon Sangsomwong, Chairman of the DTI Board; General Porpol Maneerin, former Chairman of the DTI Board; and General Kukiat Srinaka, DTI Advisor; along with senior executives who served as witnesses. The ceremony took place at the Infantry Center, Thanarat Camp, Pranburi District, Prachuap Khiri Khan Province.

During the event, personnel from Weapon Manufacturing Industry Co., Ltd. (WMI) and the Royal Thai Army’s tactical shooting team conducted a tactical firing demonstration. This showcased the weapon's efficiency and capabilities, highlighting its readiness for deployment in real-world scenarios by the end-user units.

The 5.56mm carbines were produced by Weapon Manufacturing Industry Co., Ltd. (WMI), a joint venture of DTI. These AR-15 family assault carbines utilize standard 5.56×45mm ammunition and feature barrel lengths of 11.5 and 14.5 inches. They operate via a Direct Gas Impingement System (DGIS) and are distinguished by a monolithic upper receiver design, which enhances structural strength and operational balance. It features a lightweight M-LOK handguard that supports the mounting of a wide range of accessories, meeting the operational needs of modern-day personnel.

This delivery marks a significant milestone in fielding the carbine developed by Weapon Manufacturing Industry Co., Ltd. (WMI)—a joint venture of DTI—to units under the Ministry of Defence. It demonstrates the advancement of the defense industry and the enhancement of equipment readiness, while tangibly supporting Thailand's self-reliance in defense manufacturing.

(DTI Thailand)

The Royal Thai Navy Held a Keel-laying Ceremony for the New Oil Tanker

11 September 2026

Keel-laying ceremony for RTN's new oil tanker at TINDY, Samut Prakan, Thailand (photos: Royal Thai Navy)

The Royal Thai Navy (RTN) held a keel-laying ceremony for a new oil tanker at the shipyard of Thai International Dockyard Co., Ltd. (TINDY) in Tambon Tai Ban, Mueang District, Samut Prakan Province, Thailand, on September 1, 2026.

Admiral Pairoj Fuangchan, Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Navy, presided over the keel-laying ceremony for the new oil tanker at the TINDY shipyard. TINDY is a subsidiary of the Thai SC Group and has been engaged in shipbuilding and repair operations since 1991. The Royal Thai Navy signed a contract with Thai International Dockyard Co., Ltd. via a selection process to build one oil tanker, with a total value of 434,634,000 Baht (approximately $13,198,726), on March 30, 2026.

The new oil tanker, scheduled for delivery to the Royal Thai Navy in 2028, is intended to replace an existing oil tanker. HTMS Chula (III), built by Singmarine Shipyard in Singapore, entered service on December 30, 1980. Having served for over 45 years, it is scheduled for decommissioning by 2027.

The new 65-meter-long oil tanker, built by the Thai company TINDY, will be equipped with two US-made Cummins diesel main propulsion engines (1,007 kW each) and two German-made MAN Lindenberg diesel generator engines (375 kW each). It will achieve a speed of 12 knots and carry a crew of 45. This procurement project underscores the Royal Thai Navy's long-standing support for the Thai shipbuilding industry.

(AAG)

Hanwha Ocean dari Korea Selatan Menangkan Tender Fregat Angkatan Laut Thailand

10 September 2026

Hanwha Ocean adalah nama baru bagi DSME (Daewoo Shipbuilding & Marine Engineering) setelah perusahaan galangan kapal tersebut resmi diakuisisi dan berganti nama di bawah naungan Hanwha Group (gambar: Hanwha Group)

Angkatan Laut Thailand telah memilih Hanwha Ocean Co Ltd dari Korea Selatan untuk membangun satu kapal fregat dalam proyek pengadaan senilai 16,73 miliar Baht, yang mencakup sistem terkait, peralatan, suku cadang, pelatihan, dan layanan dukungan.

Laksamana Korawit Chayarathi, Komandan Armada Kerajaan Thailand sekaligus ketua komite proyek pengadaan fregat, menandatangani pengumuman yang menetapkan Hanwha Ocean sebagai pemenang tender.

Perusahaan tersebut menawarkan harga total sebesar 16,73 miliar Baht; angka ini tidak termasuk bea cukai namun sudah mencakup pajak pertambahan nilai (PPN), pajak lainnya, biaya transportasi, dan segala biaya lainnya.

Hanwha Ocean adalah perusahaan galangan kapal dan rekayasa kelautan asal Korea Selatan. Didirikan pada bulan Oktober 1973, perusahaan ini diluncurkan kembali di bawah naungan Hanwha Group pada tahun 2023.

Harga tersebut bersifat tetap dan mengikat berdasarkan ketentuan DAP (Incoterms 2020), yang mencakup transportasi dan asuransi hingga fregat diserahterimakan di Pangkalan Angkatan Laut Sattahip atau lokasi lain yang ditunjuk oleh Angkatan Laut.

Sementara itu, juru bicara Angkatan Laut, Laksamana Muda Parat Rattanachaiphan, menyatakan bahwa Perdana Menteri Anutin Charnvirakul telah menandatangani ringkasan hasil seleksi pada tanggal 4 September, dan Sekretaris Tetap Pertahanan kemudian menyetujui hasil seleksi tersebut pada tanggal 7 September.

Hanwha Ocean (sebelumnya DSME) memiliki pengalaman sebelumnya setelah menyerahkan HTMS Bhumibol Adulyadej—fregat pertama Thailand di kelas ini—pada tahun 2018 (foto: Angkatan Laut Kerajaan Thailand)

Ia mengatakan bahwa pihak Angkatan Laut menyadari besarnya perhatian publik terhadap proyek ini karena menyangkut keamanan nasional, perlindungan kepentingan maritim, dan penggunaan dana publik.

Oleh karena itu, aspek ketepatan, nilai manfaat (value for money), transparansi, dan akuntabilitas sangat ditekankan di sepanjang proses pengadaan.

Angkatan Laut menegaskan bahwa proyek ini ditujukan untuk memberikan manfaat bagi negara secara keseluruhan, bukan sekadar menyediakan kapal perang baru bagi Angkatan Laut. Angkatan Laut akan secara resmi mengumumkan hasil seleksi pada 18 September, setelah masa pengajuan keberatan berakhir.

Pihak Angkatan Laut akan memaparkan hasil tersebut serta menjelaskan kriteria seleksi, alasan pemilihan, poin-poin utama proposal, dan manfaatnya bagi negara.

(ThaiPBS)