New Thai frigate programme points to land-attack-capable combatant

A computer-generated image of the frigate that has been offered by Hanwha Ocean to the Royal Thai Navy. (Hanwha Ocean)

The Royal Thai Navy's (RTN's) future frigate will be capable of conducting land-attack and counter-uncrewed aerial system (C-UAS) operations, in addition to undertaking naval warfare missions.

A computer-generated image provided to Janes by Hanwha Ocean offers the first detailed indication of how those requirements could be implemented in the selected design.

In an 18 September statement confirming the selection of Hanwha Ocean as the frigate's main contractor, the RTN outlined capability requirements across three principal areas of naval warfare: surface warfare, anti-submarine warfare, and air defence.

The service also noted that the frigate will be capable of conducting land-attack missions, countering uncrewed aerial systems, and supporting command-and-control, datalink, and joint-force operations.

These capabilities would significantly enhance the RTN's surface-strike options.

The requirements outlined by the RTN appear consistent with the configuration depicted in the rendering provided to Janes by Hanwha Ocean.

The image shows a low-observable frigate design incorporating a forward naval gun, a vertical launching system (VLS) battery positioned ahead of the bridge, and anti-ship missile launchers amidships.

However, neither Hanwha Ocean nor the RTN has identified the types of missiles that will be incorporated into the frigate.

The image also shows several smaller apertures, communications antennas, and electro-optical devices distributed around the mast and superstructure.

Just ahead of the vessel's wheelhouse is a pedestal that can accommodate a close-in weapon system (CIWS) turret and a non-kinetic effector for countering UASs.

The stern incorporates a flight deck sized for a medium naval helicopter and what appears to be a hangar that can accommodate two airframes.