Thailand’s Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) has released its latest whitepaper, detailing its future procurements and expansion plans across various domains. The updated report acknowledges the changing global landscape since 2020, highlighting Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and the escalating tensions between the United States and China.
One of the key aspects of the whitepaper is the RTAF’s aim to replace its aging Lockheed Martin F-16s. While the 2020 whitepaper had proposed acquiring 12 fighters between 2023-2028, the updated version pushes the timeline back to 2025-2034, calling for the procurement of 12-14 new jets. Additionally, the paper emphasizes the need to replace F-16s serving with 403 Squadron between 2037-2046.
Notably, the whitepaper does not mention the previously discussed plan to obtain a single Gripen C/D, which was proposed in the 2020 version. This could indicate a shift in priorities for the RTAF. However, it does call for the replacement of Northrop F-5E/Fs and Dassault/Dornier Alpha Jets, with a plan to procure 12-14 aircraft between 2031-2035.
The whitepaper also sets out plans to upgrade existing assets. This includes refurbishing Raytheon AIM-9M Sidewinder missiles and acquiring a new beyond-visual-range missile with an impressive range of over 50nm (92.6km). Furthermore, the RTAF intends to upgrade its Saab 340 airborne early warning assets by replacing the dorsal radar units and adding a command-and-control capability by 2026-2029.
Additionally, the whitepaper outlines ambitious goals for the development of unmanned combat air vehicles, drone swarms, manned-unmanned teaming, and armed tactical unmanned air vehicles. The RTAF also plans to procure a new lead-in fighter trainer by 2025-2028 and aims to replace its current Airbus A340-500, used for VIP purposes, with a long-haul transport capable of flying 12 hours.
The procurement plans extend beyond combat aircraft, as the RTAF intends to replace its ATR 72-500s with an aircraft capable of longer flights and acquire medium-sized helicopters for VIP, medical evacuation, and search and rescue missions.
While some timelines have been adjusted from the previous whitepaper, the RTAF remains committed to modernizing its fleet and expanding its capabilities to address evolving security challenges effectively.
FAQ Section:
Q: What is Thailand’s Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) whitepaper about?
A: The whitepaper details the future procurements and expansion plans of the RTAF across various domains.
Q: What are some key aspects mentioned in the whitepaper?
A: One key aspect is the RTAF’s aim to replace its aging Lockheed Martin F-16s. The whitepaper also highlights the need to replace other aircraft, such as Northrop F-5E/Fs and Dassault/Dornier Alpha Jets.
Q: What are the proposed timelines for aircraft procurements?
A: The updated whitepaper pushes the timeline for acquiring new fighters back to 2025-2034. There are also plans to procure new aircraft between 2031-2035.
Q: Are there any plans for upgrading existing assets?
A: Yes, the whitepaper sets out plans to upgrade assets such as refurbishing missiles and upgrading airborne early warning assets.
Q: What are the RTAF’s goals for unmanned aircraft and drones?
A: The whitepaper outlines ambitious goals for the development of unmanned combat air vehicles, drone swarms, manned-unmanned teaming, and armed tactical unmanned air vehicles.
Definitions:
Lockheed Martin F-16s: A type of fighter aircraft produced by Lockheed Martin.
Gripen C/D: A type of fighter aircraft produced by Saab.
Northrop F-5E/Fs: A type of fighter aircraft produced by Northrop.
Dassault/Dornier Alpha Jets: A type of trainer and light attack aircraft produced jointly by Dassault Aviation and Dornier Flugzeugwerke.
Raytheon AIM-9M Sidewinder missiles: Heat-seeking, short-range air-to-air missiles produced by Raytheon.
Saab 340: A Swedish twin-engine turboprop aircraft used for various purposes, including airborne early warning.
Airbus A340-500: A long-range, wide-body aircraft produced by Airbus.
ATR 72-500s: A regional turboprop aircraft produced by ATR.
Suggested Related Links:
– Royal Thai Air Force Official Website