Navantia to Supply Electronic Systems to Thai Navy’s China- Built Landing Platform Dock

Spanish Firm, Navantia signed a contract with the Thai Navy to supply combat management,  surveillance, fire control, weapon control, gyros, and other systems for its landing platform dock (LPD) HTMS Chang acquired from China in 2023.

Navantia will support the Royal Thai Navy (RTN) in its project to enhance the capability of the LPD HTMS Chang (792), a Navantia press release said Thursday.

The contract includes the integration of the combat management system (CMS), surveillance system, fire control system (FCS), weapon system, gyros, and other related technologies, a Navantia press release said on April 10.

Navantia will equip the HTMS Chang with some of its most cutting-edge naval systems, including the CATIZ CMS and DORNA FCS, ensuring the RTN benefits from the most advanced capabilities available.

Navantia has a longstanding relationship with the RTN, having previously supplied the HTMS Chakri Naruebet (911), the flagship of the RTN fleet.

This new contract not only strengthens the ties between Navantia and the RTN but also boosts local skills and industry through collaboration with the Mahidol Dockyard.

The Royal Thai Navy commissioned Type 071E landing platform dock (LPD), HTMS Chang (792), on April 25, 2023, in Chuk Samet Port, Sattahip Naval Base.

Thailand signed a contract with China for the procurement of a Type 071E LPD on September 9, 2019. The amphibious vessel is based on the Chinese Navy’s Type 071 LPD. The deal was reported to cost Bt6.1 billion (200 million USD). HTMS Chang was launched in December 2021, and completed its sea trials in December 2022.

According to the Royal Thai Navy, the new LPD is capable to deploy;

8 Amphibious Vehicles (AAVs) or 11 Wheeled Armored Vehicles (MBTs) on Vehicle Deck 1.

8 Amphibious Vehicles (AAVs) or 9 Wheeled Armored Vehicles (MBTs) on Vehicle Deck 2.

6 Landing Craft Mechanised (LCM), or 9 Landing Craft Vehicle Personnel (LCVP), or 57 amphibious vehicles (AAVs), or 2 air-cushioned vehicles (LCAC) on Floating docks.

The LPD can land up to 600 troops.