30 September 2022

Thailand starts trials of D11A rocket launcher

by Jon Grevatt

Thailand's D11A, the prototype of which is pictured above, is a local version of Elbit Systems' multicalibre Precise and Universal Launching System (PULS). (Janes/Jon Grevatt)

Thailand's Defense Technology Institute (DTI) has started trials of a locally produced version of Elbit Systems' multicalibre Precise and Universal Launching System (PULS).

The DTI said on 27 September 2022 that trials of the prototype platform – named the D11A Multi-Purpose Rocket and Missile Launcher – took place recently at the Royal Thai Army's (RTA's) artillery firing range in Lopburi, central Thailand.

The DTI, the Ministry of Defence's research and development arm, said initial trials were focused on testing the D11A's performance and stability, and its ability to meet the Thai armed forces' “tactical requirements”.

It added that the results of the tests will inform continued research and development of the platform. Janes understands that this work has mainly been focused on the integration of Elbit Systems' rocket launcher on a 6×6 10-tonne Tatra truck from the Czech Republic.

The D11A prototype was unveiled by the DTI at the Defense and Security 2022 exhibition held in Bangkok in August.

The DTI told Janes at the exhibition that trials of the D11A would be intended for certifying the platform, with a view to starting production of the system in 2023. Manufacturing will likely be conducted by the Royal Thai Armed Forces' production facilities.

Development work on the D11A started in 2019 and was interrupted by the Covid-19 pandemic. The project restarted earlier in 2022. The project was initiated through a USD2.2 million development contract awarded to Elbit Systems in September 2019.

Thailand's Defense Technology Institute (DTI) has started trials of a locally produced version of El...

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