Royal Thai Navy (cold war)

The Kingdom of Thailand has many difficult internal and external defence problems to resolve with limited means. She has nearly 700 miles of navigable waterways, increased by half in the monsoon. Up to 1939 Thailand was known in the English-speaking world as Siam. The existence of an anti-Japanese underground movement won Thailand moderate treatment at the end of the war, though she was forced to return the territories acquired in 1941 and 1943 to French and British control. The Royal Thai Navy was left unmolested and the ships served the new Thai state for many years. One coast defence ship, Sri Ayuthia, was lost during the 1951 rebellion. Manpower rose from 10,000 to 18,000 in the 1950s.

Thailand was one of the original signatories of the 1954 SEATO Manila Pact agreement, having already lost a frigate in the Korean War, and later provided troops, air bases and equipment to assist American forces in Vietnam. Currently Thailand, one of the instigators of the ASEAN agreement, has formed close ties with both Malaysia and the Philippines.

During the 1980s the navy received numerous fighting ships including US-built Ratanakosin class fast corvettes, German-built minesweepers/hunters and Thai-built patrol boats of the Sattahip class. Four frigates of the ‘Jianghu’ type were completed in China in the 1990s along with Kamronsin class corvettes built in Thai shipyards to a British design. The Chinese ships cost only half as much as Western-built equivalents, but their combat effectiveness is lower because of their obsolescent armament and equipment. The Italthai shipyard, on the other hand, is delivering big modern and capable landing ships of the Sichang class. Thailand, like other countries in the region, is trying to build up its shipbuilding industry.

The importance of the navy in Thai military thinking was emphasised by the order in 1991 of a 7800t helicopter carrier to be built by Blohm & Voss, Germany at a cost US $225m. This order was later cancelled.
However, in March 1992 a new light aircraft carrier based on the larger Spanish Principe de Asturias design was ordered from Bazan, Ferrol. With this vessel, plus the new frigates and 20,000t replenishment tanker building in China and the planned acquisition of ex-US Knox class frigates, the Thai Navy will acquire a true blue water capability to project power in the region.

The Royal Thai Navy in the Cold War

Introduction

The sole cruiser/royal yacht/capital ship of the Siamese Navy, Maha Chakri.
The Royal Thai Navy (formerly Navy of Siam) had a long history going back to 20 November 1906 (now 118 years). See the Royal Thai Navy in WWI. The interwar period and authoritarian political stance pro-Japan put the country in a collision course with French Imperialist ambitions (starting with the Franco-Siam war of 1893), culminating with the war of 1941. See the Royal Thai Navy in WW2.

Before the war of 1941, which crippled the Thai navy at the battle of Kho Chang, it was a solid, albeit small but coherent and modern force comprising two armoured gunboats, two armoured coast guard monitors, two sloops, one destroyer, nine 1st rank torpedo boats, three 2nd rank torpedo boats, four submarines, one gunboat, two minelayers, four fast attack crafts and other auxiliaries. Its new capital ships, that could have turned the tide of the war were never delivered. These were a pair of light cruisers ordered to Ansaldo in Italy, the Taskin class. Unfortunately in 1940 they were requisitioned by the Italian government for completion to enter the Regia Marina as the Etna class. They were never completed.

HTMS Sukhotai, colorized by Irootoko Jr.

The legacy fleet in 1947

Destroyer Phra Ruang (1916, stricken 1959)
Frigate Meklong (1936, TS 1976, stricken 2000s)
Coast Defence ships:
-Sri Ayuthhia (1937, sank 03/07/1951)
-Ratanakosindra (1929, stricken 1968)
-Sukhotai (1929, stricken 1972)
TORPEDO-BOATS:
-CHANDRABURI 18.1.37 318t Stricken 1978
-CHUNPHORN 18.1.37 318t Stricken c1976
-PATANI 16.10.36 318t Stricken 1978
-PUKET 28.9.35 318t Stricken c1976
-RAYONG 11.1.37 318t Stricken 1978
-SURASDRA 28.11.36 318t Stricken 1978
-TRAD 26.10.35 318t Stricken c1976
-KANTAN 26.3.37 110t Stricken 1976
-KYLONGYAI 26.3.37 110t Stricken 1976
-TAKBAI 26.3.37 110t Stricken c1973
SUBMARINES (Sinsamudar class, coastal):
-BALAJUNBOL 14.5.36 370/430t Decommissioned 1955
-MACHANU 24.12.36 370/430t Decommissioned 1955
-SINSAMUDAR 14.5.36 370/430t Decommissioned 1955
-VILUN 24.12.36 370/430t Decommissioned 1955
MINELAYERS:
-BANGRACHAN 1936 368t, Stricken 1980
-NHONGARHAI 22.7.36 368t Stricken 1980
MINESWEEPER:
-CHOW PHRAYA 24.3.19 840t Stricken 24.8.7 (ex-Havant)
COASTAL CRAFTS:
-CMB 6-17 1935-37 16t Stricken 1950s
-SARASINDHU 1936 50t Stricken 1960s
-THIEW UTHOCK 1936 50t Stricken 1960s
-TRAVANE VARI 1936 50 Stricken 1960s
-SAMET 1906 150t Stricken 1960s (ex-Pi Sua Nan)
Note that most of these vessels were relatively still recent. Many dated back 1936-38 and thus in 1947 had still almost two decades of useful service, so they were gradually disposed of in the 1960-70s. The exception was the venerable sloop (reclassed as frigate) Meklong. Nearly all interwar Thai ships were built in Japan (Britain was the main provider prior to 1920). Meklong was the sister ship of HTMS Tachin ordered to Uraga docks in Japan in 1935 but she was sunk at the battle of Kho Chang, leaving her sister Meklong alone. After a long career as TS she was decommissioned on 20 July 1996 and turned into a Museum ship.

HTMS Meklong today as a museum ship. She was decommissioned in 1996

Evolution

During the Cold War (1947–1991), the Royal Thai Navy (RTN) played a significant role in supporting Thailand’s alignment with the United States and its broader anti-communist stance. Thailand, strategically located in Southeast Asia, was a key ally for the U.S. in the region, particularly given its proximity to Vietnam, Laos, and Cambodia—areas where Cold War tensions were intense.

Strategic Alliance with the United States:
Thailand became a critical part of U.S. strategy in Southeast Asia, formalized through its membership in the Southeast Asia Treaty Organization (SEATO) in 1954. SEATO aimed to prevent communist expansion in the region. The Royal Thai Navy benefited from U.S. military aid, receiving equipment, training, and support. This included modernizing its fleet with patrol boats, frigates, and support vessels.

Anti-Communist Operations:
The RTN supported internal security efforts to counter communist insurgencies within Thailand, including naval patrols to secure coastlines and rivers from potential infiltration by communist forces. It provided maritime security during the Vietnam War, where Thailand allowed U.S. forces to use its bases. The RTN helped ensure that maritime supply routes remained open and secure.

Modernization and Expansion:
The Cold War era saw a significant modernization of the Royal Thai Navy. It acquired new ships and developed its capabilities in anti-submarine warfare, coastal defense, and logistics. Notable acquisitions included various patrol boats, landing ships, and destroyer escorts transferred from the U.S. Navy.

Regional Security Role:
The RTN engaged in regional maritime security operations, patrolling the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea to deter communist insurgencies and smuggling activities. The Navy also participated in humanitarian missions and search-and-rescue operations in regional waters.

Post-Vietnam War Adjustments:
After the Vietnam War, the Royal Thai Navy had to recalibrate its strategy due to the reduced U.S. military presence in the region. It focused more on national defense and maritime security while maintaining close ties with the U.S. This era set the foundation for the Royal Thai Navy’s current structure and capabilities. It transitioned from a primarily coastal defense force to a more modern navy capable of regional operations. The close U.S.-Thai military relationship forged during this period remains a cornerstone of Thai defense policy today.

The Royal Thai Navy Today

The Royal Thai Navy (RTN) today is a modern, capable maritime force that plays a crucial role in Thailand’s national security, regional stability, and international cooperation. With a primary focus on safeguarding Thailand’s territorial waters, protecting maritime interests, and contributing to humanitarian missions, the RTN has evolved significantly since its Cold War era.
Its Key Roles and Responsibilities are the following:
Maritime Security and Sovereignty:
-Patrols Thailand’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ) to prevent illegal fishing, smuggling, piracy, and other maritime crimes.
-Ensures the security of key shipping lanes in the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea.

Disaster Relief and Humanitarian Missions:
-Actively participates in disaster response operations, including tsunami relief and flood assistance.
-Engages in international humanitarian missions, especially within the ASEAN region.

Regional Cooperation and Exercises:
-Regularly participates in joint military exercises such as Cobra Gold (with the U.S.) and SEACAT (Southeast Asia Cooperation and Training).
-Collaborates with regional navies through ASEAN-led initiatives and international maritime security efforts.

Current Capabilities
Naval Fleet:
-Aircraft Carrier: HTMS Chakri Naruebet, Thailand’s flagship, though primarily used for disaster response and training.
-Frigates and Corvettes: Modern surface combatants equipped with advanced radar, missiles, and anti-submarine warfare (ASW) capabilities.
-Submarine Program: Thailand has been expanding its submarine fleet, with plans to acquire Chinese-built submarines, including the S26T Yuan-class.
-Amphibious and Support Vessels: Essential for transport and humanitarian missions.

Naval Air Wing:
Operates fixed-wing aircraft and helicopters for maritime patrol, search and rescue (SAR), and ASW missions.
UAVs (Unmanned Aerial Vehicles) are being integrated for surveillance and reconnaissance.

Naval Technology and Cybersecurity:
Investment in modern command, control, communications, computers, and intelligence (C4I) systems.
Focus on cybersecurity and electronic warfare to enhance operational readiness.

Challenges for the Future:
Regional Tensions: The RTN must address challenges related to the South China Sea disputes and growing regional naval competition.
Budget Constraints: Balancing modernization with fiscal realities remains a challenge.
Submarine Acquisition Delays: Political and logistical issues have delayed the full deployment of the planned submarine fleet.
The Royal Thai Navy is a versatile and increasingly modern force, balancing traditional maritime defense with roles in regional diplomacy, disaster response, and international cooperation. It is poised to play a more prominent role in Southeast Asia’s maritime security landscape in the coming decades.

Current Organization

The RTN is divided into three major components:
Fleet Forces Command – Oversees naval operations in the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea.
Royal Thai Marine Corps – Responsible for amphibious operations and coastal defense.
Royal Thai Naval Air Division – Provides air support for naval operations, including maritime patrols and anti-submarine warfare.
Bases: Sattahip, Bangkok, Phangnga, Songkhla, Phuket, Samui, Trat
Regional Commands/District forces::
First Naval Area Command: Northern Gulf of Thailand
Second Naval Area Command: Southern Gulf of Thailand
Third Naval Area Command: Andaman Sea, Indian Ocean.
Air District Forces:
U-Tapao Royal Airfield, Chanthaburi Airstrip, Nakhon Phanom Base, Songkhla Airfield, Phuket Airfield, Narathiwat Airstrip

Royal Thai Marine Corps

The Royal Thai Marine Corps (RTMC) was founded in 1932 AND its first battalion was formed with the assistance of the USMC. It became a regiment in 1940 and was found in action against communist guerrillas in the 1950s-1960s. It was then assisted by the USMC to reach brigade level. In December 1978, RTNMC RECON teams saw action in the Mekong River during skirmishes with the communist Pathet Lao organisation in Laos.

Royal Thai Marine Corps conduct amphibious assault training

Today the Royal Thai Marines are responsible for border security in Chanthaburi and Trat provinces, tasked to combat communist insurgents at Baan Hard Lek, Baan Koat Sai, Baan Nhong Kok, Baan Kradook Chang, Baan Chumrark. They saw action at the battle of Hard Don Nai, Nakhon Phanom Province. In 2019 they are deployed on the southern border provinces due to the local insurgency. Main HQ is at Sattahip.

Marine special force

The RTMC Reconnaissance Battalion, simply “RECON”, is a reconnaissance battalion under command of the Royal Thai Marine Division, to provide task forces amphibious and ground reconnaissance, as well as planning battlespace operations or classic insertion and extraction and raids.

Naval Special Warfare Command

The Naval Special Warfare Command is an underwater demolition assault unit created initially in 1956, based on the US combat swimmer unit and a part is trained regularly with the Navy SEALs to deal with maritime counter-terrorism. Its operations remaiend classified. They have the same missions as the SEALS such as intel along the Thai border when tensions arose and anti-piracy patrols in the Gulf of Thailand, with en emphasis or boarding and assaults. They are also tasked of the Tham Luang cave rescue team, which successfully extracted 12 junior football players and coach trapped in Tham Luang Nang Non Cave (Chiang Rai) back in July 2018.

Air and Coastal Defence Command

Hawker Siddeley AV-8S Harrier of the former air group of Charki Naruebet

Thailand is one of the rare countries outside the US operating the A7E Corsair II

The ACDC was formed in 1992 under direct control by the Royal Fleet Headquarters. There is a coastal defence regiment and an air defence regiment. Personnel came from the Royal Thai Marine Corps but now are recruioted directly for the corps.
–The First Coastal Defence Regiment is close to the Marine Corps at Sattahip. It was expanded in 1992 after a decision made in 1988 to task it the defence of the eastern seaboard/Southern Seaboard.
–The First Air Defence Regiment is located at the main Naval Air Wing at U-Tapao (HQ). It must provide anti-aircraft defence for the northern Gulf of Thailand anc ounts three anti-aircraft battalions and three artillery battalions.
–The Second Air Defence Regiment is based at Songkhla in 1999 and could reach 15,000 personnel. Its task is AA defence for the southern Gulf and Andaman Sea, also with three anti-aircraft battalions.
Both had respective Coastal Defence Command and Control Centers and Supporting Regiments, transportation battalion, communications battalion, and maintenance battalion.

Royal Thai Naval Air Division

The RTN comprised two air wings (including ship based helicopters) and the Flying Unit of the sole aircraft carrier HTMS Chakri Naruebet (23 fixed-wing aircraft, 26 helicopters) based in U-Tapao, Songkhla, and Phuket. The First Royal Thai Navy wing is divided thus in three squadrons with the Second Royal Thai Navy wing also comprising three squadrons and a second replacement wing for HTMS Chakri Naruebet.
1st Wing
7 Dornier 228 SAR/Maritime patrol aircraft
2 Fokker27-MK 200102 (ASuW/ASW patrol aircraft)
9 Cessna 337 Super Skymaster Forward air control
Second Wing
1 Fokker27, 1 MK 400 Embraer ERJ-135LR201 Military transport Maritime patrol aircraft
7 UH-1N Twin Huey H145M Helicopters
4 SH-76B Seahawk Super Lynx 300203 (ASuW/transport)
HTMS Chakri Naruebet Flying Unit:
6 SH-70B Seahawk MH-60S Knighthawk

Riverine Patrol Regiment

The Royal Thai Navy RTN Riverine Patrol Regiment is mostly tasked of police missions, control illegal immigration, human trafficking, drug smuggling or national security threats on the Chao Phraya and Mekong Rivers among others. Its Patrol detachments are stationed in several provinces inland.

Misc. Departments

Royal Thai Naval Academy

The academy was created back in 1898 at Samut Prakan by King Chulalongkorn (Rama V). Candidates need to pass an entrance exam, then three-year preparatory program with optional Preparatory School which are joined schools with the army, air force and and police cadets. After graduation, this is a one-year advanced course at Sattahip leading to a diploma in naval science. This produces officers both for the navy or Marine Corps. Cadets graduate with a bachelor’s degree in engineering or science, commissioned in the Royal Thai Navy as ensigns (sub-lieutenant). Their received their ceremonial swords from the king in person or its representative. The best of these cadets also are funded scholarships in other naval academies abroad, which leads to their acceptation as officers straightaway, instead of having an advance course.

Naval Medical Department

The Naval Medical Department was set up on 1 April 1890, HQ in Somdech Phra Pinklao Hospital, Bangkok. Medical services are provided for sailors and it managed severam hospitals in Thailand such as the Queen Sirikit Naval Hospital in Chonburi being the latest and largest, opening on 20 November 1995.

Royal Thai Navy Music Division

There is a Royal Thai Navy band with a naval department in the Royal Thai Army. Its first manifestation was a “Naval Trumpet Band” created on 10 June 1878, which are nominal part of the new royal yacht Vesatri and trained by the captain training instructors. Their duty is to perform in all official occasions such as state visits of King Rama V and when the king traveled by sea, such as during King Chulalongkorn’s visit of Europe in 1897. It was then present on board the Royal Yacht Maha Chakri and performed for queen victoria during her 1897 jubilee. This became later the basis for the Royal Thai Navy Music Division based in RTN Bangkok Naval Base. There are several RTNMD stations bands. They need to perform for all ceremonies in all RTN naval bases and installations and the academy.

Naval Military Police Regiment

The navy was the first branch of the Thai military to create a military police unit.[citation needed] The naval military police was established at the order of Marshal Admiral Paribatra Sukhumbandhu, Prince of Nakhon Sawan, who was a naval commander at that time.[29] The official founding date was on 14 December 1905 by the Department of Mechanical Ships and the Department of Naval Affairs.[29]

Construction: Thai Yards

The Royal Thai Navy fleet consists of ships constructed in Canada, China, Germany, Italy, Singapore, South Korea, Spain, the United States, and the United Kingdom. Thai shipbuilding companies and RTN dockyards such as Mahidol Adulyadej Naval Dockyard, Asian Marine Services, Marsun Shipbuilding, Italthai Marine, and Bangkok Dock also have the capability to construct vessels.[30]
Royal Thai Naval Dockyard: The Naval Dockyard was on Arun amarin Road, Siriraj Subdistrict, Bangkoknoi District, Bangkok. It has constructed and repaired ships since the reign of King Mongkut. As ships grew larger, King Chulalongkorn ordered the construction of a large wooden dock. He presided over the opening ceremony on 9 January 1890, a date now considered the birth of the Naval Department. Its headquarters is now at Mahidol Adulyadej Naval Dockyard, Sattahip District, Chonburi Province.

The Thai Fleet Today

The Thai Navy had already been looking for a large air-capable ship for some years when a 7800t ship initially ordered from Bremer Vulkan was cancelled as unsatisfactory on 20 July 1991. This was replaced by an order for a larger ship placed with the Spanish shipbuilders Bazan on 27 March 1992. First steel was cut in October 1993. The ship is a smaller version of the Principe de Asturias design (see Spain) which was itself derived from the abortive US Sea Control Ship project of the 1970s. The Thai vessel differs from the Spanish carrier in the arrangement of its propulsion machinery, having two shafts instead of one.

This very interesting design has a 12° ski jump and two 20t capacity lifts, positioned just forward of the island superstructure and on the after part of the flight deck. Armament may be fitted in Thailand. Hangar capacity is up to ten AV-8B Harrier IT VSTOL aircraft or Sea King helicopters. Missions include SAR coordination and EEZ patrol. The ship is also to have special accommodations fitted for the Thai royal family. This ship, once commissioned (planned for 1997), will greatly enhance the power-projection capability of the Thai Navy, being the only ship of its kind in the region apart from the two Indian carriers.
Air Group:
6 × SH-70B Seahawk, 2 × MH-60S Knighthawk and up to 14 additional helicopters, SH-70B Seahawk, MH-60S Knighthawk, S-76B and Mi-17 depending on missions.

Specs:
Displacement: 11,485t full load
Dimensions: 538ft 5in wl, 599ft lin oa x 100ft lin max, 73ft 10in wl x 20ft 4in (164.1m, 182.6m x 30.5m, 22.5m x 6.2m)
Machinery: 2 shafts (CP propellers) CODOG, 2 GE LM 2500 gas turbines, 44,250shp = 27kts, 2 MTU 16V 1163 TB83 diesels, 11,780bhp = 16kts.
Range 10,000nm at 12kts
Armament: 1 Mk 41 VLS for Sea Sparrow SAM, 2-30mm (2×1), 420mm Vulcan Phalanx CIWS, up to 12 VSTOL aircraft or 14 helicopters
Sensors: Radar SPS 52C or SPS 48 air search, SPS 64 surface search, fire control, aircraft control; sonar hull-mounted MF
Complement: 455 (62 officers) plus 146 air crew

Chinese JIANGHU IID (053HT; 053HT(H)) type Frigates (Hudong SY all): HTMS CHAO PHRAYA 24.6.90, BANGPAKONG 25.7.90, KARABURI 28.12.90, SAIBURI 27.08.91
Ordered on 18 July 1988 for delivery of first to be within 30 months, First and second ship laid down on April 1989, with Karaburi and Sarburi in 1990. Essentially identical to the original Jianghu IV type except for the more powerful machinery of four MTU engines. First two (Fype 0531NT) are to be employed as training ships. The second pair (Type 053HIT FX) allow much more flexible use to their helicopter deck (hangar is not provided). These are sturdy ships but the Chinese armament is completely obsolete. Gun armament is of a technical sophistication typical of Allied ships of the late Second World War. Perhaps the SSM of the Ying Ji (Strike Eagle) type will prove useful. The chief advantage of this order for the Thais is the very low price quoted by the Chinese. Originally the Thai Navy sought the ships without armament, but the Chinese insisted on delivery of fully armed vessels. There are plans for radical post-delivery modernisation, but there is no indication of when this could be implemented.

HTMS Bangpakong
Specs:
Displacement: 1676t standard; 1924t full load
Dimensions: 338ft Zin x 37ft lin x 10ft 2in (103.2m x 11.3m x 3.1m)
Machinery: 2 shafts, 2 CP propellers, 4 MTU 20v TB83 diesels, 29,440bhp= 30kts. Range 3500nm at 10 kts.
Armament: 8 Ying Ji SSM (4×2), 4-100mm/56 (2×2 only 1×2 m a 458), 8-37mm (4×2), 2 RBU 1200 ASW mortars BMB 2 DC mortars, 2 DC racks, mines, helicopter
Sensors: Radar Type 354 Eye Shield, Type 352C Square tie. Type 434 Sun Visor, Type 341 Rice Lamp; Racal Decca, sonar SJD-5A.
Complement: 168 (22 officers)

NAREUSAN (Zhonghua SY) launched 27.4.93, TAKSIN launched May 1994.
These ships were ordered on 21 September 1989 from China State Shipbuilding Corporation (CSSC). They were designed by the Thai Navy and CSSC. The design incorporates much Western machinery, equipment and armaments or electronics and are much more powerful than the smaller frigates of the ‘Jianghu’ type. Laid down in 1991, they were to be completed in 1994. These ships are fitted with fin stabilisers, The hangar and flight deck accommodates such helicopters as British Lynx or the US Kaman Sea Sprite (SH-2F). European and US weapon systems are to be fitted in Thailand after delivery of the frigates. General layout of the Nareusan class frigates resembles typical western European ships of this size.
On 3 June 2011, Saab announced a contract signed to upgrade them, including Saab’s 9LV MK4 combat management system, Sea Giraffe AMB, CEROS 200 fire control radar, EOS 500 electro-optics system and data link systems compatible with the Royal Thai Air Force Erieye surveillance aircraft.

Specs:
Displacement: 2500t standard; 2980t full load
Dimensions: 393ft 8in x 42ft 8in x 12ft 6in (120m x 13m x 3.8m)
Machinery: 2 shafts, CP propellers, CODOG, 2 LM 2500 gas turbines, 2 MTU 20V1163 TB83 diesels, 44,000bhp=32kts, 14,720bhp=20kts. Range 4000nm at 18kts
Armament: 8 Harpoon SSM (2×4), 1-Mk 41 VLS launcher (1×8) Sea Sparrow SAM, 1-127mm/54 FMC Mk 45 Mod2, 437mm/63 (2×2), 6-TT 324mm Mk 32 ASW (2×3), 1 helicopter Kaman SH-2F Seasprite Sensors: Radar HSA LW-08, Type 360 (Chinese), Raytheon SPS 64(V)5, 2 HSA STIR, type 374G (Chinese); sonar SJD-7 (Chinese) Complement: 150.

Ex-US KNOX class frigates Acquired in 1994 and 1996: HTMS PHUTTHAYOTFA CHULAOK (exTruett) (Avondale, launched 3.2.73) transferred 30.7.94 and 462 PHUTTHALOETLA NAPHALAI (ex-Ouellet) from Avondale, transferred 17.1.70 1996. Two surplus Knox class frigates for transfer on lease to the Thai Navy, first on 30 July 1994, second planned for 1996. There are plans to acquire a further pair of these ships after initial familiarisation of Thai crews with their high pressure steam powerplants.

Type S26T coventional attack submarine (China/2,600 tonnes) 28 May 2024, 1 under construction, 2 more planned. First scheduled for 2027.

The Royal Thai Navy ordered one export version, designated Type 071E, in 2019. On April 17, 2023, the ship was delivered to the Royal Thai Navy and arrived to Thailand on April 25, 2023. 22,000 tonnes, can embark 600 to 800 troops with two transport helicopters.

HTMS Angthong (Indonesian Endurance class) LPD-791/2012, 7,600 tonnes, Armed by an Oto Melara 76 mm super rapido gun, 2× 30 mm MSI-DSL DS30MR Mk 44, 6× 12.7 mm M2HB. Laid down 2009, Launched 21 March 2011, Commissioned 19 April 2012.

The Bhumibol Adulyadej-class frigate is a variant of ROKA’s Gwanggaeto the Great-class destroyer design with addon stealth. High-Performance Frigate Boat Project, with a 3D combat operations center. Bhumibol Adulyadej was commissioned on 7 January 2019, originally HTMS Tha Chin. Specs to come.

HTMS Krabi was the first modified River-class for export, in that case the the Royal Thai Navy. She was built in Thailand but full technology transfer and support from BAE Systems. In January 2016 contract was signed to provide a second ship, built under licence at Bangkok Dock Co. HTMS Prachuap Khiri Khan was launched in August 2019 and armed with four RGM-84 Harpoon, commissioned two months later.

Two Pattani-class offshore patrol vessels are currently commissioned by the Royal Thai Navy, the 1460t HTMS Pattani and HTMS Naratiwat. Agreement signed in May 2002 with the China State Shipbuilding Corp. at Hudong-Zhonghua Shipyard, Shanghai. First launched in 2004, com. 16 December 2005. She notably joined anti-piracy efforts in the Gulf of Aden as part of Combined Task Force 151 and stayed for 137 days. On 9 March 2014, she took part in the search and rescue operations of Malaysia Airlines Flight 370. Similar to Chinese corvettes.
(More to come in a next update)

Thai Cold War Vessels

Two Ex-British Modified ‘FLOWER’ class frigates, PF 4 BANGPAKONG (ex-Gondwana, ex-Burnet) built at Ferguson, transferred on 15.5.47 (Stricken 1984) and PRASAE (ex-Sind, ex-Betony) built in Hall, transferred on 15.5.47 was sunk on 13.1.51.
Both 1943-built units. Served in Royal Indian Navy from 1945 before transfer to the Royal Thai Navy on 15 May 1947. Prasae lost in Korean War on 13 January 1951. On Bangpakong 76mm replaced the old 102mm gun and 40mm guns replaced 20mm. Bangpakong served as TS.

Ex-US TACOMA class patrol frigates: J TAHCHIN (built Consolidated Steel, San Pedro – ex-Glendale) was transferred on 29.10.51 and PRASAE (ii) the same day. Originally similar as British-designed ‘River’ class frigates. Built in 1943-44. Refitted early 1970s. Prasae has never been fully repaired since she sustained collision damage in January 1972.

Ex-US CANNON (‘DET”) class destroyer escort. HTMS PIN KLAO (ex-Hemminger) was originally built at Western Pipe Steel, San Pedro. She was tansferred in July 1959 and still active in the 1990s. Built in 1943-44 and transferred at New York Navy Yd July 1959 under MDAP but only finally purchased on 6 June 1975. The 3-533mm TT were removed and the 4-20mm were replaced by 40mm. The six 324mm Mk 32 ASW TT (2×3) were fitted in 1966.

The TAPI class were US PF 103 class frigates, close sisters of the Iranian Bayandor class.
TAPI (ex-PF 107) American SB Co Toledo, 17.10.70; KHIRIRAT Norfolk SB 2.6.73.
Tapi was ordered on 27 June 1969, laid down 1 April 1970. Khirirat was ordered on 25 June 1971 and laid down 18 February 1972. Completed 1 November 1971 and 10 August 1974 respectively. This type was originally based on the Italian-built Pattimura class ordered by Indonesia. Japt was modernised in 1983 and Khirirat in 1985 87. They were partly rearmed with an Italian 76mm/62 OTO Melara gun in the bows replacing the old US 76.2mm mount and the 40mm Bofors gun replacing the att 76.2™mm gun. Two single 20mm mounts replaced their original twin 40m gun mountings, The modern fire control radar of HSA, WM—25 type is now mounted on the bridge structure. Hedgehog ASW mortar was removed. Re portedly funnel was heightened. Main surveillance radar is SPS-6 and sonar SQS-17A.
As of 2024 they still patrols Thailand’s Exclusive economic zone.

specs:
Armament: 2-76mm/50 Mk 34 (2×1), 2-40mm/60 (1×2), 6-324mm Mk 32 ASW TT (2×3), 1 Hedgehog Mk 2, 1 DC rack Mk 9
Complement: 150

MAKUT RAJAKUMARN was initially ordered to Yarrow and launched on 18.11.71. A general purpose frigate ordered on 21 August 1969, similar to the earlier, shorter and more lightly armed Malaysian Rahmat. Laid down 11 January 1971 and completed 7 May 1973. The ship is highly automated and proved successful in service. Fitted as flagship. She was modernised in 1985-88; fitted with new sonar Krupp-Atlas DSQS-21B, new air search radar HSA DA-05, while Sea Cat missiles and their director were removed. Limbo ASW mortar was replaced by six 324mm Mk 32 ASW TT with British Stingray torpedoes. In 1992 it was planned to change armament further: aft 4.5in gun was to be replaced by Harpoon SSM and Sea Sparrow SAM together with Vulcan-Phalanx Mk 15 type CIWS. These plans have been scrapped, and she now serves as a training ship. A severe fire in the engine room in 1984 resulted in additional work, including replacement of the Olympus gas turbine, repair to engine room control room and central electric switchboard.

Specs:
Displacement: 1650t standard; 1900t full load
Dimensions: 320ft oa, 305ft lin pp x 36ft x 18ft (97.6, 93.0m x 10.97m x 5.5m)
Machinery: 2-shaft CODOG (CP propellers) 1 Rolls-Royce Olympus, TM 3B gas turbine, 1 Crossley Pielstick 12 PC2V diesel 6000bhp=18kts, total 23,000shp for 26kts
Range 5000nm/1200nm at 18/26kts
armament: 2x 4.5in/55 Mk 8 (2×1), 2x 40mm/60 Bofors (2×1), 4 Seacat SAM (1×4), 1 Limbo, 1 DC rack, 2 DCT
Sensors: Radar HSA LW-04, HSA WM-22, Seacat control M 44, Decca 626; sonar type 170B, 162 and Plessey MS 27
Complement: 140

HTMS Kut
Ex-US LST type tank landing ships Class: Angthong (ex-LST 294, 1950s), Chang (ex-Lincoln County, LST 898, Aug 1962), Pangan (ex-Stark Gounty, LSV 1134, May 1966), Lanta (ex-Stone County, LST 1141, 12.3.70), Prarhong (ex-Dodge Connry, LST 722, 17.12.75).
Five USN units built in 1943 45. Numbered LST 1-5 in Thai service. Angthong employed as TS since 1978. Chang has reinforced bow and hull for previous Arctic service. Angthong stricken 1980s, others extant.

Ex-US LSM 1 type medium landing ships: Kut (ex-LSM 338, Oct 1946), Phat (ex-LSM 333, Oct 1946), Kram (ex-LSM 169, 25.5.62), Built in 194445. Kram transferred under MAP. Have SO-8 or SPS-5 radar. Phai stricken 1990, remainder extant 1995.

Ex-US LCI infantry landing craft: Prab (ex-LCI 670), Satakut (ex-LCI 739) Built in 1944 and transferred in 1950. SO-8 radar. Extant 1995. Ex-US LCT (6) type tank landing craft Class: – Ardang (ex-LCU 10), Kolum (ex-LCU 12), Mataphon (ex-LCU 8), Phetra (ex-LCU IT, Rawi (ex-LCU 9), Talibong (ex-LCU 13) : All built 1944. Transferred October 1946-November 1947. Employed as transport ferries on the Chao Phraya river, Kolum stricken 1984; others extant.

Ex-US LSSL type support landing craft: Nakka (LSSL 3, ex-LSSL 102) acquired in October 1966 when Japan returned her as Himawari to USA and classed as support gunboat. Modified LCI with following armament: 1—76mm, 440mm, 2 20mm, 4-81mm mortars (4×1). Raytheon 1500B Pathfinder radar. Used mainly as small craft tender. Extant 1995.

ICHANG (Italthai SY) 14,4.87, SURIN (Bangkok Dock) 1988. These ships are built under license to the modified French PS 700 design. Similar landing ships are in the Libyan Navy. First ordered in 1984 and the second in 1987. A total of six is planned but the programme is well behind schedule. Payload is 850t (fourteen tanks). Fitted with helicopter platform aft, and a 17m long bow ramp. Italthai SY in Sampatprakarn is assisted by Tacoma Boatbuilding. Surin reportedly is longer (possible 31ft 9.5m) and fitted with MWM engines. Biggest naval ships built in Thailand at the point. In service.
Specs
Displacement: 3540t normal; 4235t full load
Dimensions: 337ft lin oa/300ft 9in pp x 51 ft 4in x 11ft 6in (103.0m/91.65m x 15.65m x 3.52m)
Machinery: 2 shafts, 2 MTU 20V1163 TB 82 diesels 11,000bhp = 16kts. Range 4000nm/14kts, 7000nm/12kts.
Armament: 140mm, 2 20 (2×1), 2 12.7mm, 1 81mm mortar
Sensors: Radar Decca 1226
Complement: 52 plus 339 troops

Thong Kaeo (N°7, 23.12.82), Thong Lang (N°8, 19.4.83), Wang Nok (N°9, 16.9,83), Wang Nai (N°10, 11.11.83)
A class of Thai-designed utility landing craft modelled on the US ‘LCU Q 1626’ type. Four ordered in 1980. Fitted with navigation radar. in service.
Specs:
Displacement: 193t normal; 396t full load
Dimensions: 134 ft 6in 0a « 29f1 6in x oft Lin (41.0m x 9.0m « 2.1m)
Machinery: 2 shafts, 2 GM 10V71M dicsels, 1400bhp = 10 kts. Range 1200nm/1Okts
Armament: 2x 20mm (2×1), 2x 7.62mm (2×1)
Complement: 31-32

There are also twenty-six ex-US LCM 6 type landing craft (/4-/6, 61 68, 7] 78, 81 82, 85 87) of which twenty-one were delivered in February-April 1969 and cight LCVP transferred in March 1963 and carried by the four LSTs, Also one Thai-built LCA with glass fibre hull and a bow ramp (10t, 39ft 5in x 8ft 9in (12.0m x 3.0m), 2 Chrysler diesels, 25kts, 35 troops).

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RATANAKOSIN launched 11.3.86, SUKHOTHAI 20.7.86. Ordered on 9 May 1983 from Tacoma Boatbuilding. PFMM Mk 16 design. Plans to build a third ship in Thailand cancelled. Ratanakosin laid down on 6 February 1984 and completed on 26 September 1986, and Sukhothai laid down on 26 March 1984 and completed on 19 February 1987. These heavily armed ships can be considered as an enlarged version of the Saudi ‘Badr’ design. Fitted with HSA Mini-SADOC weapons control system and LIROD optronic director. May be used as flagships for squadrons of fast attack craft.

Specs:
Displacement: 840t normal; 960t full load
Dimensions: 252ft 0a x 31 ft 4in x 8ft (76.82m x 9.55m x 2.44m)
Machinery: 2 shafts, 2 MTU 20V1163 TB93 diesels, 16,000bhp = 26kts. Range 3000nm at 16kts
Armament: 8 Harpoon SSN (2×4), 1 Albatros SAM system (1×8) with Aspide missiles, 1-76mm/62 OTO Melara, 2-40mm Breda (1×2), 2 20mm (2×1), 6-324mm Mk 32 TT ASW Sensors: Radar Decca 1126, HSA WM-25, HSA ZW-06, HSA DA-05; sonar Krupp-Atlas DSQS-21B
Complement: 87

Class: KAMRONSIN (Italthai SY, launched 15.8.89), THAYANCHON (Italthai SY 7.12.89), LONGLOM (Royal Thai NDY 8.8.89). These corvettes were ordered on 29 September 1987. Design Pros fast Vosper Thornycroft on the basis of experience with Omani Dhofar control attack craft. To be fitted with Sea Archer 1A Mod 2 optronic fire saals in system and Plessey NAUTIS-P combat data system. Completed for 1991. Plans for further units have been dropped.
Specs:
Displacement: 337t normal; 475t full load
Dimensions: 186ft pp/203ft 5in oa x 27ft lin x 7ft 4in (56.7m/62.0m x 8.26m x 2.25m)
Machinery: 2 shafts (CP propellers), 2 MTU 12V1163 TB92 diesels, 7500bhp = 25kts.
Range 2500nm at 15kts
Armament: 1-76mm/62 OTO Melara, 2-30mm Breda (1×2), 212.7mm (2×1), 6 324 mm ASW TT Plessey PMW-494 (Stingray torpedoes), 1 DC rack, mines
Sensors: Radar Decca 1226, Plessey AWS-4; sonar Krupp-Atlas DSQS-21C
Complement: 57

Class: Pabparapak (Launched 29.7.75; comp. 28.7.70), Hanhak Satu (28.10.75, 6.1 1,76), Suphairin (29.7.76, 1.2.77)
Of basic Lürssen TNC 45 type but very similar to Sea Wolf FAC (also built by Lürssen’s Hong Leong, for Singapore with LISA WM 28 fire control and one navigation radar.

Class: Ratcharit (4, 30.7.78, 10.8.79), Witthayakhom (5, 2.9.78, 12.11.79), Udomet (6, 28.9.78, 21.2.80) Ordered 23 July 1976. Built by CN Breda of Venice. Belong to Breda’s MV 250 type. Can make 20kts on one engine. All three extant 1995.
Specs:
Displacement: 235t standard; 270t full load
Dimensions: 163ft 5in x 24ft 6in x 7ft 6in (49.8m x 7.5m x 2.3m)
Machinery: 3 shafts (CP propellers), 3 MTU MD 20V538 TB91 diesels, 13,500bhp = 37kts.
Range 2000nm at 15kts, 650nm at 36kts
Armament: 4 MM38 Exocet SSM (4×1), 1-76mm/62 OTO Melara, 1-40mm/70 Breda-Bofors
Sensors: Radar WM-20, navigation
Complement: 45

Class: HTMS Chonbun (1, 7.6.82), Songkhla (2, 6.9.82), Phuket (2, 3.2.83). First pair ordered from CN Breda of Venice in November 1979, third in 1981. Italian MV 400 TH type FAC (gun) design. Able to have SSM. Steel hull and aluminium superstructure. Extant.

Displacement: 400: standard; 450t full load
Dimensions: 188ft 7in pp/198ft oa x 29ft x 15ft (57. 5m, 60.4 x 8.8m x 4.5m)
Machinery: 3 shafts (CP propellers), 3 MTU 20V 538 TBI diesels, 12,600bhp = 29kts.
Range 2500nm at 18kts, 900nm at 29kts
Armament: 2-76mm/62 OTO Melara (2×1), 2-40mm/70 Breda-Bofors (1×2), 4 Hycor Mk 135 chaff RL
Sensors: Radar 3RM-series WM-22/61, Elsag-Selenia Dando; ECM passive intercept
Complement: 45

Class: Khamronsin (ex-PC 609), Liulom (7, ex-PC 1253), Longlom (8, ex-PC 570), Phali (4, ex-PC 1185), Sarasin (1, ex-PC 495), Sukrip (5, ex-PC 1218), Thayanchon (2, ex-PC 575), Tongpliu (6, ex-PC 616)
Eight transferred to Thai Navy March 1947 to December 1952. SPS-25 radar in some. All except Sarasin have 2-324mm Mk 32 ASW TT (2×1), Larger crews (62 71) than original USN coraplement. Khamronsin stricken 1956, Thayanchon 1982, Longlom 1984, Sarasin 1992, Pheli 1992 and Tongpilu 1994. Remainder 1996-97.

Class: SC 31 (ex-SC 1632), SC 32 (ex-SC 1633), SC 33 (ex-SC 1634). Three built in 1945 and wansferred in 1950s. Renamed SC 7 and SC 8 (ex-SC 31, 32). SC 33 BU 1962 and SC 7 (ex-SC 31) in 1973.

Coast guard cutters (large patrol craft) Class: T 81-84 (ex-CG 13 16). New Coast Guard cutters transferred from USA in 1954. Built in 1953, Cost $475,000 cach. Similar to USCG 95ft type. Built by US Coast Guard Yard, Curtis Bay. Renamed COC 2 6 and later T 8s &4. T 83 stricken 1982 and all others since.

Class: T 11 (ex-PGM 71, 22.5.65 1.2.06), 7 12 (ex-PGM 79, 18.12.65 1967), T 13 (ex-PGM 107, 13.4, 28.8.67), T 14 (ex-PGM 116, 13.6 18.8.69), T 15 (ex-PGA1 117, 24.6 18.8.69), T 16 (ex-PGM 115, 24.4.69 12.2.70), T 17 (ex-PGAL 113, 3.6.69 12.2.70), T 18 (ex-PGM 114, 24.6.69 12.2.70), T 19 (ex-PGM 123, 14.5 25.12.70), T 20 (ex-PGM 124, 22.6 Oct 1970)
Ten US PGM type launched May 1965 June 1970 by Peterson, Sturgeon Bay, USA and on completion transferred to the Thai Navy. T 11, 12 and 13 _ since stricken. Seven extant 1990s, now discarded.

Class: T 93 (launched 1973), T 94 (16.9.81), T 95 (1981), T 96 (1982), T 97 (16.9.83), T 98 (1984), T 99 (May 1987).
Enlarged version of the earlier T 91 design. Built by Royal Thai NDY at Bangkok. T 99 has 20mm gun aft instead of 40mm.
Specs:
Displacement: 117t standard; 125t full load
Dimensions: 141 ft lin 0a, 105ft wl x 18ft Sin x 4ft 7in (43/32m x 5.7m x 1.4m)
Machinery: 2 shafts, 2 MTU 12V538 TB91 diesels, 3300bhp for 25kts
Armament: 240mm/60 (2×1), 2 12.7mm (2×1)
Complement: 16

Class: Sattahip (16.9.83), Klongyai (May 1984), Takbai (Jul 1984), Katang (14.10.85), Thepa (17.4.86), That Muang (17.4.86).
First four units ordered on 9 Septernber 1981 and others on 27 December 1983 and 31 August 1984 at Italthai SY at Samutparakarn, Bangkok, according to the radically modified US ‘PSMM Mk 5’ design. Fitted with Decca 1226 radar and optronic NA 18 gun fire control system. All launched in 198385. Extant 1995,
Specs:
Displacement: 270t standard; 300t full load
Dimensions: 164ft 4in oa, 154 ft 10in x 24ft x 5ft 2in (5ft 1 lin props) (50.1m, 47.2m x 7.3m x 1.58m-1.8m)
Machinery: 2 shafts, 2 MTU 16V538 TB91 diesels, 6800bhp = 22kts.
Range 2500nm/15kts
Armament: 1-76mm US Mk 26 (three received Italian 1-76mm/62 OTO Melara), 140mm, 2-20mm (2×1), 2-12.7mm (2×1)
Complement: 56

Single vessel Ordered September 1989 from Italthai Marine, Bangkok and delivered in April 1992 for use by the marine police force. Design derived from Khamronsin class corvettes built for Thai Navy, with different machinery, armament and fittings. Planned second ship of class not built because of shortage of funds.
Specs:
Displacement: 630t full load
Dimensions: 203ft 5in x 26ft 11lin x 8ft 2in (62 x 8.2m x 2.5m)
Machinery: 2 shafts (KaMeWa CP props), 2 Deutz MWM BV 16M628 diesels, 9524bhp = 25kts.
Range 2500nm at 15kts
Armament: 1-30mm/82 Breda, 2-20mm Oerlikon GAM BO1 (2×1)
Complement: 45

Two ex-US YP type: CGC /1, CGC 12. Former US Coast Guard cutters of YP type (44.5t, 20.5kts, 1 20mm), Renamed CGC I and CGC 2, CGC 12 stricken in 1978 and CGC 13 in 1973. Two Thai-built T 91 type built by Naval Dockyard, Bangkok in 1965 73 in two batches
Specs:
88t, 1O4ft 4in x 17ft 1 in x 51 in (71 x 8 x 1.9m), MTU diesels, 25kts, 1-40mm, 4 20mm (4×1), 2 MG (21 men).

-Six MPB built in Bangkok in 1940s (lot, 12.5kts, 1 20mm): MPB 1, 3 stricken in 1956 and the rest in 1961.
-Five ex-US 36ft RPC type transferred in March 1967; (10.4t, 14kts, 2 twin MG). Used on Mekong river.
-Thirty-seven ex-US PBR Mk 2 type, twenty transferred 1966 67, ten in 1972. Used on Mekong.
-Twelve ex-US ‘Swift’ class: T 21 29, T 210-212, transferred 1967-75.
-Sixteen Thai-built 64ft units (34t full load, 1-20mm, 1 81mm mortar, 2 MTU diesels, 1300bhp — 22kts, 8 men); built by Ital-Thai Development Co, Bangkok 1980 81. 7° 213 228, first three in service 29 August 1980, last four in 1984. Fishery protection role.

-One Hysucat 18 experimental hydrofoil catamaran built of GRP in Thailand in 1986, designed with help from Fr. Lürssen, unsuccessful, planned series construction cancelled; 39t (78 tonnes), 2 MWM diesels, 1LO40bhp — 36kts, 1 20mm Oerlikon (onginally) 20mm Sea Vulcan).
-Two Hameln type large patrol ciaft Danone Rachanuphat (1802) and Lopburt Ramas (18098) were delivered in 1969 and 1972 by German yard Schiffiwerf Hameln and are used by mantime pobce; 430t, 56.7m, 2 MTU dhesels, 4400bhp 2 Vets, LZ 6m 50, 2 20mm Octiikon, Mxtant 1995,
-Two Sunidagawa type coastal patrol boats Chasanyabadee (1107) and Promothee (1103) were delwered in 1972 73 by Sumidagawa, Japan, used by mantime poles; 130t fll lond, 34.0m, 3 diesels, 4050bhp = 32kts, 2 12. 7mm, Extant 1995,
The maritime police also uses the Charvengsak SongAnam (1102, 1973, 190t, 32kts, 2. 20mm Oerlikon), Snyanont (901, 1986, 52t, 23khts, 1 20mm Ocrlikon, 2 7.62mm MG); three Halter type Phrongkamrop (807), Preharnpholakit, (808) and Raminthra (809, 34t, 25kts, 1 20mm Ocrhkon, 2. 7.62mm MG); three Technautic type No 8/0 812 (50t, 27kts, 1 20mm Ocrlikon, 2 7.62mm MG) and over fifty smaller patrol craft and boats which can easily be used by the navy in case of hostilities.

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Ex-British ALGERINE class ocean minesweeper: Phosamton (ex-Minstrel) transferred in April 1947. The 20mm guns were increased from three to stx and DCTs from two to four in 1966. Extant as TS.

Ex-US YMS type motor coastal minesweepers, HTMS Bangkeo (ex-YMS 334), Ladya (ex-YMS 138), Tadindeng (ex-YMS 21). Transferred to Thai Navy in 1947-51. Wooden construction. All three stricken 1964-65.

US BLUEBIRD class coastal minesweepers: Bangkeo (6, ex-MSC 303, 9.7.65), Donchedi (8, ex-MSC 313, 17.9.65), Ladya (5, ex-MSC 297, 14.12.63), Tradindeng (7, ex-MSC 301, 26.8.65). Built by Peterson Builders Inc and Tacoma Boatbuilding Co in 1962-65. Similar to Bluebird class.

THALANG was laid down at Bangkok Naval in 1979, designed by Ferrostaal of Essen, W Germany. In service 25 June 1980. She carries two 3t cranes and four spare MCM kits for minesweepers.
Specs
Displacement: 1000t full load
Dimensions: 182ft 8in x 32ft 10in x 10ft (55.7m x 10m x 3.1m)
Machinery: 2 shafts, 2 MTU diesels, 1310bhp = 12kts
Armament: 140mm, 2—20mm (2×1), 2-12.7mm (2×1), mines
Sensors: Radar Decca TM 1226
Complement: 77

Class: Bangrachan (2, Oct 1987), Nongsarat (3, Jan 1988).
These ships of the Lirssen Vegesack’s ‘M 48′ design were ordered 31 August 1984 and 5 August 1985, There was an option for two more, ‘They have composite hull construction with non-magnetic metal framing and wooden skin. Fitted with Krupp-Atlas MWS-80R mine countermeasure system. Carry two Gaymarine Pluto remote controlled submersibles. Also equipped with conventional! mechanical, magnetic, acoustic sweep gear. Carry thirty disposal charges for the Pluto submersible. For better control fitted with Becker flap rudders and Motorola Mini Ranger navigational positioning system. There are persistent rumours that the minehunting system in general and particularly the DSQS-11H sonar did not prove effective in practice. Extant 1995,
Specs
Displacement: 414t light; 443t full load
Dimensions: 157ft 6in oa/149ft 1lin pp x 30ft 6in x Oft (48m, 45.7m x 9.3m x 2.75m)
Machinery: 2 shafts (CP propellers), 2 MTU 16V396 TB83 diesels, 3,223bhp = 18kts, auxiliary electric propulsion = 7kts
Armament: 3 20mm Oerlikon GAM-BOI] (3×1), mines
Sensors: Radar Decca 1229; sonar Krupp-Adas DSQS-11H
Complement: 40

Read More/Src

Books

Gardiner, Robert; Chesneau, Roger, eds. (1980). Conway’s All The World’s Fighting Ships 1922–1946.
Gardiner, Robert; Chesneau, Roger, eds. (1980). Conway’s All The World’s Fighting Ships 1947–1995, p.460-466
Mach, Andrzej (1988). “Re: The Royal Thai Navy”. Warship International. XXV (3): 226–227. ISSN 0043-0374.
Mach, Andrzej (1988). “Re: The Thai Navy”. Warship International. XXV (2): 113–116.
Roberts, Stephen S. (1986). “The Thai Navy”. Warship International. XXIII (3): 217–265.
Ruth, Richard A. “Prince Abhakara’s Experiences with Britain’s Royal Navy: Education, Geopolitical Rivalries and the Role of a Cretan Adventure in Apotheosis”. Sojourn: Journal of Social Issues in Southeast Asia, vol. 34, no. 1, 2019, pp. 1–47. JSTOR

Links

https://www.navy.mi.th/
https://www.globalsecurity.org/military/world/thailand/navy.htm
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/HTMS_Maeklong
https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Category:Royal_Thai_Navy
https://web.archive.org/web/20151101112254/http://www.navy.mi.th/royal/kanchana/proj31.htm

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