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Thailand Expects Final AT-6TH Aircraft to be Delivered in April

Our Bureau - : Jan 22, 2025 - : 12:14 am

The Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) is anticipating the final delivery of three AT-6TH Wolverine light attack aircraft by April 2025, completing the fleet of eight under its procurement programme.

The acquisition was initiated with a contract signed on 14 November 2021, valued at 4.31 billion baht ($143 million). The deal includes the transfer of technology to Thailand, further enhancing the nation’s defence capabilities.

The first two AT-6TH aircraft, designated “41101” and “41102,” were inducted into service with Squadron 411, Wing 41, on 16 July 2024, followed by their initial training flights in October. By December 2024, the fifth aircraft had been delivered, with the remaining three expected to arrive by April 2025.

The AT-6TH is a modern, versatile aircraft equipped with a WESCAM MX-15D laser rangefinder, advanced thermal imaging systems, and air-to-ground communication links. Its weapons suite includes Mk81 and Mk82 bombs, laser-guided GBU-58 and GBU-12 munitions, HMP-400 machine gun pods, and LAU-131/A rocket pods. Its missions span close air support, border patrol, combat search and rescue, and disaster response, such as forest fire and flood mitigation. The aircraft is highly fuel-efficient, capable of seven-hour operations, and includes enhanced safety features like armoured cockpit, fuel tank, and engine protection.

To ensure operational readiness, eight RTAF pilots underwent training at Textron Aviation Defence in the United States between February and May 2024. These pilots have since established Thailand’s first pilot training programme for the AT-6TH, enabling effective utilisation of the fleet.

The AT-6TH made its public debut in December 2024 during the Air Tactical Operations Evaluation in Lopburi Province, where two aircraft demonstrated live armament capabilities. This fleet complements the RTAF’s T-6TH Texan II training aircraft, which share similar foundations but are designated for distinct roles.

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