Royal Thai Army
Royal Thai Army กองทัพบกไทย (RTGS: Kongthap Bok Thai) | |
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![]() Emblem of the Royal Thai Army | |
Active | 1874 |
Country | ![]() |
Allegiance | HM The King |
Type | Army |
Size | 250,000 [1] |
Part of | Royal Thai Armed Forces |
Garrison/HQ | Bangkok |
Motto(s) | เพื่อชาติ ศาสน์ กษัตริย์ และประชาชน (For The Nation, Religions, King, and People) |
Colors | Red |
March | มาร์ชกองทัพบก (Royal Thai Army March) |
Anniversaries | 18 January (Royal Thai Armed Forces Day) |
Engagements | Franco-Siamese War World War I Franco-Thai War World War II Korean War Vietnam War Cambodian–Thai border stand-off 2008–2010 Thai political crisis |
Commanders | |
Commander-in-chief | Prayuth Chan-ocha |
Notable commanders | Phraya Phahol Pholphayuhasena Plaek Pibulsonggram Sarit Dhanarajata Thanom Kittikachorn Prem Tinsulanonda Chavalit Yongchaiyudh Suchinda Kraprayoon Surayud Chulanont Sonthi Boonyaratglin |
Insignia | |
Royal Thai Army Flag | ![]() |
Unit Colour | ![]() |
The Royal Thai Army (Thai: กองทัพบกไทย) is the army of Thailand responsible for protecting its sovereignty. It is the oldest and largest branch of the Royal Thai Armed Forces. The army was formed in 1874, partly as a response to new security threats following the Bowring Treaty with Britain, which opened up the country for international trade.
History
Before Royal Thai Army
The Tai territories during the Sukhothai period stretched far and wide in all directions, particularly during the reign of the renowned King Ramkhamhaeng the Great. Though a formidable warrior, the great king introduced the paternalistic system, maintaining a father-son relationship with his subjects and seeing to their problems and needs. In peacetime, soldiers became law-abiding citizens. In wartime, all able-bodied men.[2]
During the Ayutthaya period, improvements were made on military organizations with the introduction of more efficient enlistment systems and more effective fighting tactics. For the first time, the military and civilian affairs became two distinct entities, marking the birth of the military Personnel Department (“Pra Suraswadee”), tasked with armed forces registrations for a more efficient conscription in time of war. Eighteen-year-old able-bodied men were to report for military duty for a period of six months annually. In wartime, warlords were tasked with mobilizing men under their control to reinforce the armed forces. The king, supreme commander of the armed forces, would appoint members of the royal family and trusted noblemen as top generals and commanders of lower echelons in the chain of command. The “Pichai Songkram” manual, detailing military tactics and steps toward a decisive victory, was first published. The book comprises chapters on army organizations, force deployment, camp pitching techniques as well as other battlefield maneuvers.[3]
In 1767, King Taksin established Thon Buri as the new capital replacing the war-ravaged Ayutthaya in a move to restore Thai sovereignty following a victorious do-or-die battle for independence. The valiant king further developed different aspects of the Thai military, particularly launching a systematic registration for military service. While the long-standing conscription of able-bodied men for military service remained in place, the brief reign of the awe-inspiring king saw a precise documentation of all potential soldiers ready for mobilization, command and control in time of war. King Taksin was also intensely keen on arming his soldiers with modern weaponry like muskets and cannons, a large number of them being locally made. The astute king thus enhanced his soldiers’ patriotic commitment as well as their warfare capability.[4]
Origin
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/e/e8/Firstworldwar.jpg/230px-Firstworldwar.jpg)
The Royal Thai Army is the army of Thailand responsible for protecting its sovereignty. It is the oldest and largest branch of the Royal Thai Armed Forces. The army was formed in 1874, partly as a response to new security threats following the Bowring Treaty with Britain, which opened up the country for international trade.[5]
Modern
The Royal Thai Army had participated in numerous of significant wars, for instance, contributing troops to European Continent as Allied Forces during World War I in 1918; combating as coalition forces during the Great East Asia War, Korean War and Vietnam War. In all these wars, the Thai troops have bravely demonstrated their efforts such that it promoted more recognition to Thailand’s reputations internationally.[6]
Current
At present, the primary role and mission of the Royal Thai Army is to defend the country against aggression by foreign ground forces, as stated in the National Constitution which reads “The State shall arrange for the maintenance of the armed forces for safeguarding its independence, security of the State and national interest…The Arm Forces shall be employed in a battle or a war, for the protection of the institution of kingship and the democratic regime of government with the King as the Head of State…and for national development”. As playing major roles in national defense, the Royal Thai Army has to maintain and develop its capabilities in all aspects namely; land forces preparation and Employment of forces for national development which will enable the Royal Thai Army to assure survival of sovereignty; to successfully assist government in country developments; and to promote democratic regime of government with the King as the Head of State; as well as, to support peace and stability in the region.[6]
Command and control
The Royal Thai Army is commanded by the Commander of the Royal Thai Army (ผู้บัญชาการทหารบกไทย); the current Commander is General Prayuth Chan-ocha, who was confirmed by royal appointment to take over the top post effective 1 October 2010. The Royal Thai Army Headquarters is located in a building on Ratchadamnoen Nok Road in Bangkok, Thailand.
- Commander-in-Chief: General Prayuth Chan-ocha
- Deputy Commander-in-Chief: General Dapong Ratanasuwan
- Assistant Commander-in-Chief: General Sirichai Distakul
- Assistant Commander-in-Chief: General Jiradej Mokkhasmit
- Chief of Staff of the Army: General Udomdej Sitabutr
A regiment (the 'Queen's Cobras') and later a division, then a brigade, served in South Vietnam from September 1967 to March 1972.[7]
List of Commanders
Structure
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/6/6a/Royal_Thai_Armed_Forces_M60A1_battle_tanks_get_into_a_formation_to_maneuver_toward_an_objective_during_a_combined_arms_live-fire_exercise_at_a_training_center_in_Ban_Chan_Krem%2C_Thailand%2C_Feb._21%2C_2014%2C_during_140221-M-VO695-015.jpg/260px-thumbnail.jpg)
For the order of battle during the Japanese occupation of Thailand, refer to the Phayap Army.
The Royal Thai Army today is divided into four Army Areas:
- First Army (Thailand) – headquartered in Bangkok and is responsible for the country's western and central provinces including the capital city.
- 1st, 2nd, 9th and 11th infantry divisions
- 2nd Cavalry Division
- 1st Development Division
- 31st Infantry Regiment (Thailand)
- Second Army – headquartered in Nakhon Ratchasima and is responsible for the northeastern quadrant.
- 3rd, 6th Infantry Divisions
- 3rd Cavalry Division
- 2nd Development Division (Nakhon Ratchasima)
- Third Army (Thailand) – headquartered in Phitsanulok, responsible for the northern and northwestern parts of the kingdom.
- 4th Infantry Division
- 7th infantry division
- 1st Cavalry Division
- 3rd development division.
- Fourth Army – headquartered in Nakhon Si Thammarat, responsible for southern Thailand, engaged in the South Thailand insurgency. U.S. State Department cables leaked by Wikileaks in 2006 said: 'Military forces totaling approximately 35,000 troops fall under the command of the 4th Army.. ..the 5th Inf Div and the 15th Development Division (three regiments) totaling approximately 20,000 troops are the main units of the 4th Army.' (06BANGKOK3196)
- 5th Infantry Division (Thailand) (five regiments – Wikileaks 06BANGKOK3196)
- 15th Infantry Division (Thailand) (Camp Queen Suriyothai, Nong Kae Hua Hin. Prachuap Khiri Khan province)
- 4th Development Division. U.S. State Department cables leaked by Wikileaks in 2006 said: 'The Development Division is itself a traditionally "static unit" that provides engineering, construction and other support to local communities in the South. It is not formally charged with security operations. Indeed, Development Division officers were very proud in stating that they have better relations with the locals than other security elements—and have not been attacked while engaged in construction or relief efforts.'[8]
The creation of the 15th Infantry Division (Thailand) was announced in January 2005.[9] Defence Minister General Samphan Boonyanan was quoted as saying that the new unit, dubbed the "Development Division", would not be a combat unit for fighting Islamic militants, but rather its main mission would be to assist local citizens and develop the region. The military will not ignore its general function of providing safety for the citizens of the region, he added. He said that troops for the new division would undergo training to give them a good understanding of local residents, the vast majority of whom are ethnic Malay Muslims. The division is in fact a transformation of the Pran Buri-based 16th Infantry Division. It will now be headquartered at Ingkhayuthaborihan Camp in Pattani, complete with its battalions and companies of military police and communications and aviation personnel, he said. It will also have three separate infantry battalions, one each in Pattani, Yala and Narathiwat. Each battalion will include three companies of medical, engineering and psychological-warfare personnel, he said. The government will allocate a budget of more than 18bn baht for the division over the next four years.[10]
The International Crisis Group wrote in 2010 that '..The 15th Infantry Division is being established as a permanent force to handle security problems in the Deep South. The division is based in Pattani and is expected to have a combined force of around 10,000. The establishment of this new division, approved by the government in 2005, has yet to be completed. As of this writing, some 7,000 troops deployed in the Deep South are affiliated to this division.'[11]
Jane's Defence Weekly for 15 August 2012 said that two new combat formations had been approved by the previous Pheu Thai administration. The new 7th Infantry Division is based at Mae Rim, near Chiang Mai, and the new 3rd Cavalry Division is based at Khon Kaen.[12]
The Royal Guards (Thailand) form several separate regiments within these formations.
Tactical units
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/e/e0/Royal_Thai_Army_soldiers_in_woods_2006.jpg/260px-Royal_Thai_Army_soldiers_in_woods_2006.jpg)
The army is organized into the following formations:
- 9 infantry divisions (including 16 tank battalions)
- 1 armoured division
- 3 cavalry division (a light armoured division)
- 1 special forces division trained and geared for small unit special and airborne operations
- 1 field artillery division
- 1 air defense artillery division
- 8 independent infantry battalions
- 3 airmobile companies provided the ground force units with battlefield support
The Royal Thai Army also controls at least one television network, the Thai Global Network.
The Army Tactical Level Advanced Simulation (ATLAS) is an interactive, distributed, constructive simulation used to conduct military Command Post Exercises (CPX) within the RTA. ATLAS utilize a continuous terrain model, incorporates HLA 1516, and displays 1:250,000 1:50,000 and Satellite Imagery. ATLAS was developed between 2002 and 2005 through cooperation with RTA Command and General Staff College (CGSC).
Army Medical Department
Army Medical Department (กรมแพทย์ทหารบก) belongs to the service segment of the Royal Thai Army. It is responsible for medical affairs, providing medical services at its regular base or in the field, giving training to personnel in research and agriculture and supervising the medical divisions of different sectors of the Royal Thai Army. AMED observed 111 years of service in January 2011,[13] with 110 years of service having been honored by issue of a series of commemorative stamps.[14]
Air Division
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/3/38/Thaiarmy_UH60L.jpg/220px-Thaiarmy_UH60L.jpg)
Royal Thai Army Air Division (กองบินทหารบกไทย) belongs to the service segment of the Royal Thai Army Areas:
- Don Mueang Airport (VTBD)
- Units here include the VIP squadron, flying1 Embraer ERL-135LR serial number 1084/HS-AMP and serial number 1124, 2 Jetstream 41 (serial numbers 41060 and 41094), 2 Casa 212–300 (serial numbers 446 and 447) and 2 Beech 1900C-1 (serial numbers 0169 and 0170) and the 1st Infantry Battalion operating 2 Bell 206B (serial numbers 4422 and 4448), 3 Schweizer S-300C (serial numbers 1340,1366 and 1367) and 2 Cessna U-17B FAC aircraft (serial numbers 1616 and 1617).
- Bang Khen (3 km south of Don Mueang)
- The Royal Squadron flies 3 Bell 212 and 2 Bell 412 (serial numbers 36332 and 36333) from here. There is also a special transport unit flying around 10–12 Bell 212 and 1 or 2 Bell 206 based here.
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/2/23/Thaiarmy_UH60L_engineoff.jpg/220px-Thaiarmy_UH60L_engineoff.jpg)
- Camp Surasri
- The 9th Infantry Battalion operates 2 Bell 206B (the serial number of 1 is 4424), and 2 or 3 Schweizer S-300C. There is also a detachment of UH-1H from an Air Mobility Company here.
- Camp Jakapong (Prachin Buri)
- The 2nd Infantry Battalion "The Queen's Guard" was operating 2 Bell 206B (serial numbers 4446 and 4361), 3 Schweizer S-300C (serial numbers 1343, 1344 and 1345) and 2 Maule MX-7 (one serial number known is 099) in 2004, however it is likely the Maule MX-7 may now not be operated by this unit now. A detachment of this unit (with in 1998 1 Bell 206 and 1 Maule MX-7) was operating from Watthana Nakhon (VTBW) near the Cambodian border.
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/f/f4/Thaiarmy_AH1F_Cobra.jpg/220px-Thaiarmy_AH1F_Cobra.jpg)
- Phitsanulok Airport (VTPP)
- Loc 16 degrees 46'58.58N,100 degrees 16'44.84E elevation 154 feet/47 meters.
- Runway 14/32 length 9843 feetx148/3000x45 meters
- Operating from here is the 4th Infantry Battalion with Bell 206B,Schweizer S-300C,Cessna U-17B and Maule MX-7.
- Camp Suranaree (Khorat)
- The main flying unit here is the 3rd Infantry Battalion flying 2 Bell 206B (serial numbers 4396 and 4447), 2 Schweizer S-300C (serial numbers 1337 and 1339) and 2 Cessna U-17B (serial numbers 1454 and 1618).
- This field also hosts a detachment of up to 3 Bell 212 helicopters from one of the Air Mobility Companies.
Lop Buri, the main base complex of the Royal Thai Army Aviation, which includes training, technical school, aircraft maintenance and aircraft storage.
- The main airfield here is called Sa Pran Nak (VTBH)
- Loc 14 degrees 56'58.02N,100 degrees 38'34.88E elevation 95 feet/29 meters.
- Runways 01/19 3300x98 feet/1006x30 meters and 06/24 3890x98 feet/1186/30 meters
- Operating units here include
- Gong Bin Bau – in English Light Aviation Company – operating Cessna U-17B, Cessna T-41 and Searcher MKII
- Gong Bin Pee-ak Moon Tee Nung – in English Air Mobility Company 1 – operating Bell UH-1H and Bell 212
- Gong Bin Pee-ak Moon Tee Song – in English Air Mobility Company 2 – operating Bell UH-1H (US Excess Defense Articles program)and Bell 212
- Gong Bin Pee-ak Moon Tee Sam – in English Air mobility Company 3 – operating Bell UH-1H,Bell 206B,Bell AH-1F Huey Cobra(8) and Bell 212
- Gong Bin Pee-ak Moon Tee Gou (pasom) – in English Air Mobility Company 9 (Mixed) – operating Bell UH-1H(US Excess Defense Articles program) and Sikorsky S-70-43 Black Hawk(6) with 6 more on order.
- Gong Bin Sanub-sanoon Tua Pai – in English General Support Aviation Battalion – operating Boeing CH-47D Chinook, Bell UH-1H and Mil Mi-17V5
- The army aviation centre is based here, which conducts conversion training for the army. Types operated are Cessna T-41B (ex US army surplus), Maule MX-7, Schweizar S-300C piston trainer helicopters.
- The 2 former VIP Beechcraft 200 King Air airplanes, serial numbers 0342 and 1165 are also based here. Their present role is unknown. These airplanes were modified in the USA in the late nineties.
A separate airfield within the Lop Buri complex (only around 3 km south of Sa Pran Nak) houses the 5th aircraft maintenance Company. This unit is responsible for maintenance and storage of army aircraft and helicopters.
- The 5th Infantry Division operates the following aviation assets from a small airfield within the army reserve at Nakhon si Thamarat (not at the airport),2 Bell 206B-3(serial numbers 4382 and 4427),3 Schweizer TH-300C(serial numbers 1371,1372 and 1373)and 2 Maule MX-7(serial numbers 114 and 115).A detachment of helicopters can be found here from the Air Mobility Companies based at Lop Buri.
- The 6th Infantry battalion is based near Ubon Ratchatani.
Rank and insignia
Equipment
Infantry weapons
Small arms
Photo | Model | Type | Caliber | Origin | Notes | |
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Pistol | ||||||
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M1911 | Semi-automatic pistol | .45 ACP | ![]() ![]() |
Thai M1911A1 pistols produced under license. Locally known as the Type 86 pistol (ปพ.86). | |
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Beretta 92 | Semi-automatic pistol | 9x19mm Parabellum | ![]() |
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Heckler & Koch USP | Semi-automatic pistol | .45ACP | ![]() |
Used by Special forces. | |
Submachine gun | ||||||
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Heckler & Koch MP5 | Submachine gun | 9x19mm Parabellum | ![]() |
Used by Special forces. | |
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UZI | Submachine gun | 9x19mm Parabellum | ![]() |
Used by Military police. | |
Heckler & Koch UMP | Submachine gun | 9x19mm Parabellum | ![]() |
UMP9 submachine guns used by Special force. | ||
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FN P90 | Submachine gun | 5.7x28mm | ![]() |
FN P90 submachine guns used by Special force. | |
Assault rifle | ||||||
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Heckler & Koch HK33 | Assault rifle | 5.56mm | ![]() ![]() |
Thai license produced version of the Heckler & Koch HK33. Used by Royal Thai Armed Forces and Army Reserve Force Students. | |
Type 11 | Assault rifle | 5.56mm | ![]() |
The Type 11 (ปลย.11) is a bullpup assault rifle of Thai origin, manufactured by the Ministry of National Defence. The weapon is a derivative of the Heckler & Koch HK33 assault rifle. | ||
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IMI Tavor TAR-21 | Assault rifle | 5.56mm | ![]() |
Standard infantry rifle.Replaced M16A1 order 106,203 tavor. Present 58,000+ tavor/X95 in service [15][16] | |
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M16A1/A2/A4 | Assault rifle | 5.56mm | ![]() |
Standard infantry rifle. Aging M16A1 will be replaced by IMI Tavor TAR-21 and M16A4. | |
CAR-15 | Assault rifle | 5.56mm | ![]() |
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M4A1 Carbine | Assault rifle | 5.56mm | ![]() |
Used by Special forces, Some were equipped with SOPMOD kit. | |
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Steyr AUG | Assault rifle | 5.56mm | ![]() |
Used by Special forces. | |
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Heckler & Koch G36 | Assault rifle | 5.56mm | ![]() |
Used by Special forces. | |
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SAR 21 | Assault rifle | 5.56mm | ![]() |
Used by Special forces. | |
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IMI Galil | Assault rifle | 5.56mm | ![]() |
Used in small numbers. | |
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Type 56/56-1 | Assault rifle | 7.62×39mm | ![]() |
Used in small numbers mainly by the Thahan Phran. Former Thai Communist rifle. | |
Semi-automatic rifle | ||||||
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M1 Garand | Semi-automatic rifle | .30-06 | ![]() |
Locally known as the Type 88 self-loading rifle (ปลยบ.88). Used by Royal Guards and by Army Reserve Force Students as a non-firing training rifle. | |
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M1/M2 Carbine | Semi-automatic rifle | .30 | ![]() |
Locally known as the Type 87 carbine (ปสบ. 87) Used by Army Reserve Force Students as a non-firing training rifle. | |
Sniper rifle | ||||||
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M14 rifle | Sniper rifle | 7.62mm | ![]() |
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SIG-Sauer SSG 3000 | Sniper rifle | 7.62mm | ![]() |
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SR-25 | Sniper rifle | 7.62mm | ![]() |
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Machine gun | ||||||
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Heckler & Koch HK21 | Light machine gun | 5.56mm | ![]() |
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FN MINIMI | Light machine gun | 5.56mm | ![]() |
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IMI Negev | Light machine gun | 5.56mm | ![]() |
Over 1,500 purchased. Delivery is ongoing.[17] | |
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Type 56 LMG | Light machine gun | 7.62x39mm | ![]() |
Used in small numbers mainly by the Thahan Phran. Former Thai Communist machine gun. | |
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FN MAG-58 | General purpose machine gun | 7.62mm | ![]() |
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M60 | General purpose machine gun | 7.62mm | ![]() |
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M2 Browning machine gun | Heavy machine gun | 12.7mm | ![]() |
Locally known as Type 93 machine gun (ปก.93). Use by infantry units and mobile vehicles and helicopter. | |
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Type 54 HMG | Heavy machine gun | 12.7x108mm | ![]() |
Mounted on Type 69 and Small number of V-150 |
Grenades, Rockets, and MANPADS
Photo | Model | Type | Quantity | Origin | Notes | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Grenade launcher | ||||||
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M203 | Underbarrel grenade launcher | ![]() |
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Beretta GLX160 | Underbarrel grenade launcher | ![]() |
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M79 | Single-shot grenade launcher | ![]() |
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BTS-203 | Single-shot grenade launcher | ![]() |
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Mk 19 AGL | Automatic grenade launcher | ![]() |
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Anti-Tank | ||||||
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Type 56 RPG | Rocket-propelled grenade | ![]() |
Used in small numbers mainly by the Thahan Phran. Former Thai Communist shoulder-fired missile . | ||
Type 69 RPG | Rocket-propelled grenade | ![]() |
Used in small numbers mainly by the Thahan Phran. Former Thai Communist shoulder-fired missile . | |||
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Carl Gustav M3 | recoilless rifle | ![]() |
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M40A2 | Recoilless rifle | ![]() |
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M72A5 LAW | Anti-tank rocket launcher | ![]() |
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M47 Dragon | Anti-tank guided missile | 500 | ![]() |
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BGM-71 TOW | Anti-tank guided missile | ![]() |
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Anti-Aircraft | ||||||
HN-5A | Man-portable air defense system | 90 | ![]() |
[18] | ||
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9K38 Igla-S | Man-portable air defense system | 48 | ![]() |
Part of order placed in 2010.[18] |
Vehicles
Armoured fighting vehicles
Photo | Model | Type | Quantity | Origin | Notes | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Tank | ||||||
T-84 Oplot-M | Main Battle Tank | 5(+44)[19] | ![]() |
Up to 200 may be acquired. First order of 49 tanks was placed in Sep 2011 although there are no official announcements from the Royal Thai Army. So far, the government has just approved 7.155 billion baht to purchase the first 49 T-84 Oplot main battle tanks to be assigned to the 2nd Cavalry Bn (Royal Guard at Fort Chakkraphongse, Prachinburi), the 4th Cavalry Bn (Royal Guard at Kiakkai, Bangkok), the 8th Cavalry Bn (Fort Suranari, Nakhon Ratchasima), and the 9th Cavalry Bn (Fort Ekathotsarot, Phitsanuloke).[citation needed] 5 to be delivered on 5 February 2014, 20 will deliver in July 2014.[20] | ||
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M60A1/A3 Patton | Main battle tank | 53 A1 125 A3 |
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Ex-US Army 53 M60A1 RISE Passive and 125 M60A3 TTS. | |
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M48A5 Patton | Main battle tank | 105 | ![]() |
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M41A3 Walker Bulldog | Light tank | 200 | ![]() |
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FV101 Scorpion CVR(T) | Light tank | 128 | ![]() |
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Stingray light tank | Light tank | 106 | ![]() |
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Armoured Vehicle | ||||||
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Type 85 | Armoured personnel carrier | 396 | ![]() |
Variants include: APC, ACV,SPM 120mm, SPM 81mm, SPRL. Six of them are fitted with Type 82 multiple rocket launcher. | |
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M113A1/A2/A3 | Armoured personnel carrier | 500+ | ![]() |
Overall there are 500+ M113 in different variants. 450+ of M113A1/A2/A3 are armored personnel carrier. 6 of M113A2 are fitted with TOW 1 anti-tank missile. 23 of them are M577 command vehicles. 10 of M113A3 are recovery vehicles. 9 M113A3s are ambulances. | |
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M901A3 | Armoured personnel carrier/Tank destroyer | 18 | ![]() |
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M106A1/A2 | Armoured personnel carrier/Mortar carrier | Unknown | ![]() |
Fitted with 107 mm M30 mortar and a 12.7 mm machine gun. | |
M125 | Armoured personnel carrier/Mortar carrier | Unknown | ![]() |
Fitted with 81 mm M29 mortar and a 12.7 mm machine gun. | ||
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BTR-3E1 | Infantry fighting vehicle/Armoured personnel carrier | 96(+121) | ![]() |
96 ordered in 2008. Deliveries was delayed due to changes in engine and transmission. Additional 6 given by the Ukrainian Government. Second order of 121 announced in Aug 2011.[citation needed] Third order of 21 announced in August 2013.[21] | |
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V-150 Commando | Armoured personnel carrier | 113 | ![]() |
Variants include: 27 of V-150 are armored personnel carrier. 29 of V-150 are 81mm. mortar carrier. 56 of V-150 are fitted with 90mm turret. and one V-150 are ambulances. | |
V-100 Commando | Armoured personnel carrier | 19+ | ![]() |
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Humvee | Light Armored Car/Light utility vehicle | +1200 | ![]() |
RTA use M998,M1038A1,M1097A1,M1037,M1042,M1025,M1026A1,M966,M997,M997A2. | |
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REVA 4x4 MKII | Infantry mobility vehicle | 85 | ![]() |
Mine-protected vehicle. | |
First Win 4x4 | Infantry mobility vehicle | 21(+50) | ![]() |
Mine-protected vehicle. |
Support Vehicles
Photo | Model | Type | Quantity | Origin | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
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M992 | Ammunition resupply vehicle | 20 | ![]() |
Use for resupplying the M109A5 howitzer. |
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Type 84 AVLB | Armoured vehicle-launched bridge | 4 | ![]() |
Base on the Type 69 MBT. 18m long mobile bridge. |
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M881A1/A2 Hercules | Armored recovery vehicle | 22 | ![]() |
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Type 653 | Armored recovery vehicle | 16 | ![]() |
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M578 LRV | Armored recovery vehicle | Unknown | ![]() |
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FV106 Samson | Armored recovery vehicle | Unknown | ![]() |
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FV105 Sultan | Armored command vehicle | Unknown | ![]() |
|
Bronco ATTC | Amphibious armoured vehicle | Unknown | ![]() |
Troop carrier variant. Used by Engineer. |
Utility and logistics vehicles
Photo | Model | Type | Quantity | Origin | Notes | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Utility Vehicle | ||||||
M50,M51 Chaiprakarn | Military light utility vehicle | +2200 | ![]() |
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TR MUV4 | light utility vehicle | +3 | ![]() |
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M151 | light utility vehicle | +550 | ![]() |
RTA use M151A2,M718A1,M825. | |
Logistic Vehicle | ||||||
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M911 | Heavy Logistic Vehicle | N/A | ![]() |
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M813 | Heavy Logistic Vehicle | +500 | ![]() |
RTA use M54,M54A2,M51A1,M51A2,M52,M52A1,M52A2,M246,M543,M543A2,M813,M813A1,M820A2,M817,M818,M816. | |
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M35 2-1/2 ton cargo truck | Medium Logistic Vehicle | +2000 | ![]() |
RTA use M35,M35A1,M35A2,M50A2,M50A3,M49A1,M49A2,M109A3,M185A1,M292A2,M275,M36A2. | |
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Isuzu F-Series | Medium,Heavy Logistic Vehicle | +2000 | ![]() ![]() |
RTA use Isuzu FTS 800 4x4, FTS 33 H2E 4x4, | |
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UNIMOG | Medium Logistic Vehicle | +1500 | ![]() |
RTA use U1100/L 4x4,U1550 4x4,U2450/L 6x6,U2405 6x6. | |
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KrAZ | Medium Logistic Vehicle | +50 | ![]() |
[citation needed] | |
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LMTV | Light,Medium Logistic Vehicle | +750 | ![]() |
Thai Army have 4 series of LMTV are M1083,M1085,M1088 and M1089. |
Artillery
Multiple rocket launchers,Surface to air missiles,Howitzers,Mortars
Photo | Model | Type | Quantity | Origin | Notes | |
---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Multiple rocket launcher | ||||||
WS-32 | 400 mm self-propelled multiple rocket launcher | 2 | ![]() ![]() |
Thai license produced version of the WS-32. | ||
DTI-1G | 400 mm self-propelled multiple rocket launcher | 0(+6) | ![]() |
The DTI-1G is a multiple rocket launcher of Thai origin. The weapon is a derivative of the WS-32. | ||
WS-1B | 302 mm self-propelled multiple rocket launcher | 9 | ![]() ![]() |
Thai license produced version of the WS-1B. | ||
DTI-1 | 302 mm self-propelled multiple rocket launcher | 3 | ![]() |
The DTI-1 is a multiple rocket launcher of Thai origin. The weapon is a derivative of the WS-1B. | ||
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HIMARS | 227 mm self-propelled multiple rocket launcher | 0(+3) | ![]() |
||
Type 82 | 130 mm self-propelled multiple rocket launcher | 6 | ![]() |
Mounted on Type 85 hulls. | ||
SR4 | 122 mm self-propelled multiple rocket launcher | 4 | ![]() |
|||
Surface-to-air missile | ||||||
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SPADA | Surface-to-air missile | 8 | ![]() |
||
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Starstreak | Surface-to-air missile | 8 | ![]() |
Ordered in 2012[22] | |
VL MICA | Surface-to-air missile | 0(+1) | ![]() |
1 order will deliver in 2016.[23] | ||
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HQ-9 | Surface-to-air missile | ?? | ![]() |
Offers[24] | |
Howitzer | ||||||
CAESAR | 155 mm Self-propelled howitzer | 6 | ![]() |
|||
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ATMOS 2000 | 155 mm Self-propelled howitzer | 0(+6) | ![]() ![]() |
Thai ATMOS 2000 produced under license.[25] | |
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M109A5 | 155 mm Self-propelled howitzer | 20 | ![]() |
||
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GHN-45 | 155 mm towed howitzer | 92 | ![]() |
||
Soltam M-71 | 155 mm towed howitzer | 32 | ![]() |
undergoing Upgrade to Self-Propelled Howitzer | ||
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M198 | 155 mm towed howitzer | 116 | ![]() |
||
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M114 | 155 mm towed howitzer | 20 | ![]() |
total 56 in service. 20 active and 36 Decommission in 2013.replaced by M198 howitzer. | |
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Type 59-1 | 130 mm towed howitzer | 18 | ![]() |
in reserve. | |
M425 | 105 mm Self-Propelled Howitzer | 0(+9) | ![]() |
|||
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L119 | 105 mm towed howitzer | 22 | ![]() ![]() |
Thai L119 Light Gun produced under license. | |
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LG1 Mk II | 105 mm towed howitzer | 24 | ![]() |
||
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M56 | 105 mm towed howitzer | 12 | ![]() |
||
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M101A1 mod | 105 mm towed howitzer | 285 | ![]() |
285 guns Improve the Nexter LG1 caliber | |
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M102 | 105 mm towed howitzer | 12 | ![]() |
in reserve. | |
M618A2 | 105 mm towed howitzer | 32 | ![]() |
in reserve. | ||
M425 | 105 mm towed howitzer | 12 | ![]() |
in reserve. | ||
Mortar | ||||||
M132A1 mortar | 120 mm mortar | ![]() |
||||
M221A2 mortar | 81 mm mortar | ![]() |
||||
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M1 mortar | 81 mm mortar | ![]() |
|||
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M29 mortar | 81 mm mortar | ![]() |
|||
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M2 mortar | 60 mm mortar | ![]() |
|||
M19 mortar | 60 mm mortar | ![]() |
||||
M121A1/A2 mortar | 60 mm mortar | ![]() |
||||
M121A3 Commando mortar | 60 mm mortar | ![]() |
Anti-aircraft artillery
Photo | Model | Type | Quantity | Origin | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
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M42 Duster | 40 mm Self-propelled anti-aircraft gun | 24 | ![]() |
|
M163 VADS | 20 mm Self-propelled anti-aircraft gun | 24 | ![]() |
||
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Type 59 | 57 mm towed anti-aircraft gun | 24 | ![]() |
|
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Bofors L60/70 | 40 mm towed anti-aircraft gun | 72 L60 86 L70 |
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|
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M167 VADS | 20 mm towed anti-aircraft gun | 24 | ![]() |
|
M55 Quadmount | 4 M2HB machine guns | 24 | ![]() |
||
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M3 Half-track | 4 M2HB machine guns | 72 | ![]() |
M16 MGMC Series |
Radar Systems
Air search radars
Photo | Model | Type | Quantity | Origin | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
Siemens DR-172 ADV | Medium range air search radar | 4 | ![]() |
1 system with 1 army area. | |
Lockheed Martins LAADS | Mobile Short range air search radar | 10 | ![]() |
Use Supports M163 VADS,M167 VADS and Bofors L70. | |
Type 513 | Short range air search radar | 3 | ![]() |
Use Supports Type 59. |
Artillery-locating radars
Photo | Model | Type | Quantity | Origin | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() |
AN/TPQ-36(V)11 | Firefinder radar | 5 | ![]() |
|
ARTHUR | Firefinder radar | 0(+2) | ![]() |
2 Ordered in 2013. |
Aircraft
The Royal Thai Army is known to operate the following aircraft types:
Photo | Model | Origin | Quantity | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|
![]() |
Bell AH-1F Huey Cobra | ![]() |
7[26] | Serial numbers 9996, 9997, 9998. Serial number 9999 lost in 2001 crash. 4 more of the same model were ordered in 2005.[27] RTA also has another 3 AH-1F in storage for spare parts.[28] |
![]() |
Sikorsky UH-60L/M Blackhawk (S-70A-43) | ![]() |
9 L 0(+7)M |
Serial numbers 6927, 6928, 6929, 7002, 7003, 7025, and 7026. 3 more UH-60Ls[29] and 3 more UH-60Ms[30] ordered Aug 2009 and Jul 2011, respectively. S-70A-43, serial number 6928 was lost in a crash on 17 Jul 2011. The government has also approved the purchase of 2 more UH-60Ms. 3 more S-70A (based on the UH-60L) arrived at the port of Laem Chabang on 8 Apr 2013. The serial numbers for these are 7220, 7221, and 7222. Acceptance and handover should be complete by 11 April |
AgustaWestland AW139 | ![]() |
2 | Transport and Utility.[31] | |
Mil Mi-17-V5 | ![]() |
3 (+2) | 3 helicopters delivered by AN-124-100 RA-82078 to U-Tapao RTNS on 22 Feb 2011.A photo has appeared of Mi-17 serial number 6403 being offloaded from an AN-124. The serial numbers of the remaining two are 6401 and 6402. | |
Bell UH-1H Iroquois | ![]() |
84[26] | From US military aid during Vietnam War. Some were bought by RTA through Excess defense articles. Total delivered from 1968 to 2004: 174.[32] Less than 50% air-worthy. All operable UH-1Hs are used by 3 RTA airmobile companies. | |
Eurocopter Fennec AS550 C3 | ![]() |
8[26] | ||
Bell 206 Jet Ranger | ![]() |
25[26] | Both the Bell 206A and Bell 206B in use. | |
Bell 212 | ![]() |
52[26] | Used by 1st Airmobile Co, 2nd Airmobile Co, 3rd Airmobile Co and Department of Army Transportation | |
Eurocopter UH-72A Lakota | ![]() |
0(+6)[26] | 6 on order.[33] | |
Boeing CH-47D Chinook | ![]() |
6[26] | [27] | |
Schweizer S-300C | ![]() |
23[26] | For training and observation | |
Enstrom 480B | ![]() |
16[26] | For training | |
Embraer ERJ-135LR | ![]() |
2 | Both aircraft delivered (serial numbers 0184/HS-AMP and 1124) | |
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CASA C-212-300 Aviocar | ![]() |
2 | Serial numbers 446 and 447 based with the VIP squadron at Don Mueang Airport. One of these airplanes is no longer in service. |
British Aerospace Jetstream 41 | ![]() |
2 | Serial numbers 41060 and 41094. Based with the VIP unit at Don Mueang Airport. | |
Beechcraft 1900C-1 | ![]() |
2 | Serial numbers 0169 and 0170. Based with the VIP unit at Don Mueang Airport. | |
Beechcraft Super King Air 200 | ![]() |
2 | serial numbers 0342 and 1165. based within the Lop Buri Army complex. | |
Cessna T-41 Mescalero | ![]() |
22 | Around 20–30 of these ex- US Army fixed-wing trainers still flying | |
Cessna U-17B Skywagon | ![]() |
14 | Around 15–20 of these Vietnam-era FAC aircraft still flying | |
Maule MX-7 | ![]() |
20 | Around 15 still flying as liaison and trainer aircraft | |
IAI Searcher | ![]() |
7 | ||
AeroVironment RQ-11 Raven | ![]() |
12 (+120) |
Future procurement
Main Army
- T-84 Oplot-M – In March 2011, the Royal Thai Army placed an order for 49 T-84s to replace its fleet of aging M41A3 Walker Bulldog light tanks. Up to 200 tanks may eventually be acquired. However, the Royal Thai Army had yet to make an official announcement.[34][35]
- New Missile system – The Royal Thai Army want Surface-to-surface missile and Surface-to-air missile with Royal Thai Army choose HIMARS and VL MICA.
- New Self-propelled artillery – The Royal Thai Army purchase ATMOS 2000.
Army Aviation
- UH-60 Black Hawk – On 6 August 2009, the US Defense Security Cooperation Agency notified Congress of a possible foreign military sale to the Government of Thailand of three Black Hawk helicopters and associated equipment and logistic support for an estimated cost of $150 million.[36]
- VIP/Medivac aircraft – The Royal Thai Army signed a contract with Embraer to purchase an ERJ-135 for VIP transport use.[37] On 12 January 2009, Royal Thai Army signed a second contract to buy another aircraft with VIP and Medivac capability.[38]
Future development
- Armoured vehicles
- Black Widow Spider armored car – The Armored car type 8X8 by Defense Technology Institute and Preechathavorn Industry do joint venture.[39]
- Phantom 380-X armored car – The Armored car type 4X4 by D-Corps Asia.[citation needed]
- First Win-E - Armored car undergoing development from First Win's prototype by Chaiseri Metal & Rubber Company, to replace Humvee in future. RTA source said they are very interest in this version of First Win. [citation needed]
- Artillery
- DTI-1G - The 400 mm Guided Multiple rocket launcher by Defense Technology Institute. Based on DTI-1, will have a firing test in Andaman Sea and commission in 2014. Planned to guided by Beidou Navigation Satellite System.[40]
- DTI-2 – The 122 mm Multiple rocket launcher by Defense Technology Institute.[citation needed]
- Under the 105 mm Self-Propelled Howitzer plan by Defense Technology Institute.[citation needed]
- Under the 155 mm Self-Propelled Howitzer plan by Defense Technology Institute.[citation needed]
- Missiles
- DTI-2G – The Surface-to-air missile by Defense Technology Institute.[citation needed]
- Under the Cruise missile ground attack and anti-ship plan by Defense Technology Institute.[citation needed]
- Under the Man-portable air-defense systems plan by Defense Technology Institute.[citation needed]
- Under the Anti-tank guided missile plan by Defense Technology Institute.[citation needed]
- Army Aviation
- UAV RD01 – The Unmanned aerial vehicle by Defense Technology Institute.[citation needed]
- Black Kite UAV – The Unmanned aerial vehicle by Avia Satcom and Saab do joint venture.[41]
Future equipment
Name | Origin | Type | Service | Notes |
---|---|---|---|---|
Black Widow Spider | ![]() |
Armored car | ||
Phantom 380-X | ![]() |
Armored car | ||
ATMOS 2000 | ![]() ![]() |
Self-propelled howitzer | Thai ATMOS 2000 produced under license. | |
DTI-1G | ![]() |
Multiple rocket launcher | 2016 | |
DTI-2 | ![]() |
Multiple rocket launcher | 2016 | |
VL MICA | ![]() |
Multiple rocket launcher | 2016 | |
DTI-2G | ![]() |
Surface-to-air missile | 2017 | |
HIMARS | ![]() |
Multiple rocket launcher | ||
UH-72 Lakota | ![]() |
Utility helicopter | ||
UAV RD01 | ![]() |
Unmanned aerial vehicle | 2015 | |
Black Kite UAV | ![]() ![]() |
Unmanned aerial vehicle | Avia Satcom and Saab do joint venture. |
Historical Equipment
Broadcasting
Radio and Television channel list
Free-to-air TV
Satellite TV
Radio
- Royal Thai Army Radio Network all 126 stations
See also
![](http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/4/4a/Commons-logo.svg/30px-Commons-logo.svg.png)
- Royal Thai Armed Forces Headquarters
- Special Activities Division
- Royal Thai Army Radio and Television
- Border Patrol Police
- Thahan Phran
- Battle of Phou Pha Thi, (Northeastern Laos, March 1968) covert Border Patrol "volunteers"
- Thai–Laotian Border War
- Cambodian–Thai border dispute
- Type 45 Siamese Mauser
- Chao Phraya Bodindecha
References
- ^ GlobalSecurity.org
- ^ http://www.weloverta.org/en/history/the-sukhothai-era-1257-%E2%80%93-1438
- ^ http://www.weloverta.org/eng/history/166-2/
- ^ http://www.weloverta.org/eng/category/about-us/page/2/
- ^ http://42militarycircle.com/history-2/the-royal-thai-army/
- ^ a b http://www.weloverta.org/en/history
- ^ Stanton, 'Vietnam Order of Battle,' 270–271.
- ^ 06BANGKOK3883, 'Southern Violence: The army takes the lead,' 30 June 2006, para 8.
- ^ Robert Karniol, 'Thailand boosts military in troubled south,' Jane's Defence Weekly, 23 February 2005, Vol. 42, No. 8, p.12
- ^ Asia Africa Intelligence Wire, New Thai army regiment to battle southern militants [sic – this is a division], BBC Monitoring International Reports, 16 February 2005.
- ^ International Crisis Group, 'Update Briefing: Stalemate in Southern Thailand,' Asia Briefing No. 113, Bangkok/Brussels, 3 November 2010, 3
- ^ Interview: Sukumpol Suwanatat, Air Chief Marshal and Minister of Defence, JDW 15 August 2012, Vol. 49, Issue 33, 34.
- ^ 111 Years
- ^ "110 Years of Army Medical Department, RTA. Commemorative Stamps". Catalog. SiamStamp. 25 November 2009. Retrieved 18 February 2011.
- ^ Patrick Winn (12 September 2009). "Thailand Plans $191.3M Arms Purchase".
- ^ "Cabinet nod for buying Israeli rfiles". Bangkok Post. 15 September 2009.
- ^ http://www.asianmilitaryreview.com/CurrentIssue/dl.php?filename=201003140001071.pdf
- ^ a b "SIPRI Trade Register". Stockholm International Peace Research Institute.
- ^ http://www.ukroboronprom.com.ua/en/newsview/1/276
- ^ http://www.nonlen.com/news/19197/T-84-Oplot%E0%B8%A3%E0%B8%96%E0%B8%96%E0%B8%B1%E0%B8%87%E0%B8%A2%E0%B8%B9%E0%B9%80%E0%B8%84%E0%B8%A3%E0%B8%99%E0%B8%AA%E0%B9%88%E0%B8%87%E0%B8%96%E0%B8%B6%E0%B8%87%E0%B9%84%E0%B8%97%E0%B8%A2%E0%B8%A5%E0%B8%AD%E0%B8%95%E0%B9%81%E0%B8%A3%E0%B8%815%E0%B8%84%E0%B8%B1%E0%B8%99.html
- ^ Thailand; Third batch Ukrainian BTR ordered - Dmilt.com, 3 Aug 2013
- ^ Royal Thai Army selects STARStreak - Armyrecognition.com, November 16, 2012
- ^ http://www.gunsandgames.com/smf/index.php?topic=66552.1740
- ^ http://chinesemilitaryreview.blogspot.com/2013/11/china-offers-fd-2000-hq-9-fk-1000-and.html
- ^ [1]
- ^ a b c d e f g h i http://www.flightglobal.com/airspace/media/reports_pdf/world-air-forces-2014-108161.aspx
- ^ a b http://armstrade.sipri.org/armstrade/page/trade_register.php
- ^ http://www.army.mil/article/46906
- ^ http://www.dsca.mil/PressReleases/36-b/2009/Thailand_09-49.pdf
- ^ http://www.dsca.mil/PressReleases/36-b/2011/Thailand_11-28.pdf
- ^ http://www.agustawestland.com/news/royal-thai-army-takes-delivery-two-aw139-helicopters Royal Thai Army Takes Delivery of Two AW139 Helicopters
- ^ http://www.thai-aviation.net/files/Army.pdf
- ^ "US Approves FMS of Six UH-72 Lakota for Royal Thai Army". 1 April 2014.
- ^ "New Ukraine tanks leave soldiers riled". Bangkok Post. Retrieved 26 March 2011.
- ^ "Украина выиграла тендер на поставку 200 танков "Оплот" в Таиланд". Segodnya.ua (in Russian).
- ^ DSCA UH-60L Black Hawk Helicopter
- ^ Embraer Press Release Embraer sign contracts with the Royal Thai Army and the Royal Thai Navy
- ^ Flight International Thailand buys third ERJ-135
- ^ [2] DTI - Preechathavorn Industry prototype armored car type 8X8
- ^ [3] DTI-1G
- ^ [4] Black Kite UAV
- ^ http://www.weekendhobby.com/gun/webboard/question.asp?page=7&ID=3810