Thales and Navantia have launched their first joint initiative in Thailand, partnering to support a major upgrade of the Royal Thai Navy’s fleet. Under the modernization program, Thales will supply three Identification Friend or Foe (IFF) systems for two Pattani-class offshore patrol vessels and the HTMS Chang landing platform dock, while Navantia will oversee the refurbishment of the Chang.
The IFF package features Thales’ TSA3520 interrogator, optimized for medium- and long-range target detection, and the TSC4000 transponder, widely used across naval vessels, aircraft, and unmanned platforms. These systems will be integrated into the ships’ current radars and combat management systems, enhancing identification accuracy, threat assessment, and real-time situational awareness for Thai naval operators.
This collaboration builds on longstanding defense ties between Thailand and both companies. Thales already supports the Royal Thai Navy with radars, sonars, mine-hunting systems, and fire-control and command solutions. Earlier this month, the company secured a contract to deliver an integrated platform management system for the HTMS Chakri Naruebet aircraft carrier, enabling centralized control of propulsion, electrical networks, auxiliary machines, and damage-control functions.
Navantia’s role in Thailand has also expanded. In April, the Spanish shipbuilder agreed to assist with the modernization of the HTMS Chang, delivering upgrades to the vessel’s combat management, surveillance, and fire-control systems. Together, the new initiatives reflect Thailand’s ongoing push to strengthen its naval capability through advanced European maritime technologies.
