Thailand | Operation Coastal Shield II

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Title: Operation Coastal Shield
Document Number: RTAF-OCSI2-001/2003
Classification: TOP SECRET
Security Level: Maximum Secure
Date: May 15, 2003

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XI. IntroductionX

1.1 Background
With Thailand having a more substantial Navy, the ever-growing threat to its citizen's interests would never cease. With the legacy of Operation Coastal Guard, this operation of the same name with "II" at the end aimed to provide a haven for the Thai waters and innocent vessels.

1.2 Objective
The objective of this operation is to ensure the security of Thailand’s territorial waters and EEZ through the deployment of Thai Coast Guard assets.

XII. Command and ControlX

2.1 Guidance
This operation is conducted under the guidance of the Commander-in-Chief of the Republic Thai Navy, Admiral of the Fleet, Thira Hao-Charoen, with support from Defence Minister, Sutin Klungsang, and approval from Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra.

XIII. Operational ForcesX

Republic Thai Navy Coast Guard Fleet

•   Patrol Squadron One (PS1)
  • [5] Pattani-class OPV
  • 420 Crews
    • HTMS Pattani
    • HTMS Khok Pho
    • HTMS Nong Chik
    • HTMS Panare
    • HTMS Mayo
• Patrol Squadron Two (PS2)
  • [5] Pattani-class OPV
  • 420 Crews
    • HTMS Thung Yang Daeng
    • HTMS Sai Buri
    • HTMS Mai Kaen
    • HTMS Yaring
    • HTMS Yarang

XIV. ExecutionX

4.1 Initial Deployment
All personnel will be reported to the respective base with all necessary equipment per the Defense Ministry documents.

4.2 Communication
Effective communication among all the units must be maintained. Any unidentified or suspicious activity must be reported to the command center immediately.

4.3 Rules of Engagement
Engagement will be per the established Rule of Engagement (ROE) with the application of Increased Vigilance (IVG) and international laws. The use of force must be proportionate, and only used in self-defense or to deter identified threats after all non-lethal methods have been exhausted.

4.4 Support
Logistical support, including fuel, supplies, and maintenance, will be provided by the respective naval bases.

XV. CoordinationX

5.1 Inter-agency
Liaise with maritime agencies such as the Marine Police, Customs Department, and Fisheries Department to ensure maximum coverage and sharing of intelligence.

5.2 International
In case any foreign vessels are involved, contact must be established with the respective embassies or consulates and the situation must be reported to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

XVI. ConclusionX

6.1 The Ministry of Defense has mobilized the necessary resources to secure the waters of Thailand and the Exclusive Economic Zone to ensure the interest and safety of the Thai People. Through the deployment of Coast Guard II assets and with the support of inter-agency cooperation, the mission of safeguarding the sovereignty and security of Thailand's maritime domain will be executed.

6.2 Continuous assessment of the operation will be done to adjust the deployment and strategy as necessary.

Approving Authority:
[Signature]
Admiral of the Fleet Thira Hao-Charoen
Commander-in-Chief, Republic Thai Navy

[Signature]
Gen. Chavalit Yongchaiyudh
Defence Minister

[Signature]
Thaksin Shinawatra
Prime Minister, Republic of Thailand

Document Clearance:
The Office of the Prime Minister
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs
The Ministry of Interior
The National Intelligence Agency
The Republic Thai Air Force Command Center
The Republic Thai Navy Command Center
The Republic Thai Armed Forces Special Warfare & Operation Command

Distribution List:
The Office of the Prime Minister
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs
The Ministry of Interior
The National Intelligence Agency
The Republic Thai Air Force Command Center
The Republic Thai Navy Command Center
The Republic Thai Police
The Republic Armed Forces Headquarters
The Republic Thai Air Defense Command
The Naval Special Warfare Command
The Air Force Security Force Command

 

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Secret unless contextual possible.​

HTMS Pattani Operating in the Andaman Sea​

The Republic Thai Navy Coast Guard Fleet, having deployed Patrol Squadrons One (PS1) and Two (PS2), had mobilized all necessary resources for the routine patrol of Operation Coastal Shield II. Each member of the personnel, stationed at their respective bases, had reached the zenith of physical and mental proficiency, a result of a rigorous conditioning process designed to harness the utmost potential of the human genome.

Their training, tailored for various situational responses, was grounded in both theoretical knowledge and practical field experience, the latter honed through a year-long continuous deployment at sea. This intensive regimen ensured their readiness and alacrity for any conceivable eventuality.

Every vessel in the fleet was prepared for an extended deployment of 30 days, with additional emergency supplies for 5 days. These ships were not just operational but at the peak of their service life, due to extensive and frequent maintenance routines, coupled with modernization efforts to keep their systems and facilities up-to-date.

Regarding armaments, each Pattani-class OPV was equipped with the following arsenal: a primary weapon system comprising a single Oto Melara 76/62 Super Rapid gun with a stockpile of 960 rounds of 76x636mmR ammunition, flanked by two Denel Land Systems GI-2 20mm autocannons, each loaded with 500 rounds of 20x139 linked on F1 link, and two U.S. Ordnance M2HB .50 caliber machine guns, also with 500 rounds of .50 BMG each.

The fleet's technological capability was supplemented by their Selex RAN-30X/I multimode surveillance radar systems equipped with IFF. This advanced equipment featured four operational modes, each suited for specific operations: air/surface surveillance (Mode 1) with a 100-kilometer range at 15 rpm; navigation and helicopter control (Mode 2) with a 40-kilometer range at 30 rpm; over-the-horizon surface detection (Mode 3) extending up to 200 kilometers at 3 rpm; and anti-missile capabilities (Mode 4) covering a 25-kilometer radius at 30 rpm.

The Thai PS1 and PS2 departed from their respective bases at precisely 0600 ICT to commence their patrol operations in the Thai waters and Economic Exclusive Zone (EEZ) across NK, OK, NJ, and OJ. Their routes were meticulously planned based on their strategic positioning, with PS1 navigating the intricate areas of the Andaman Sea and PS2 covering the vital zones in the Gulf of Thailand.

During their deployment, the crew aboard both vessels maintained a state of heightened alertness. Every individual, from the commanding officer to the newest recruit, upheld a vigilant stance, ensuring constant surveillance and readiness. There was a steadfast rule enforced on all ships: at least one sailor was stationed on the deck at all times, eyes keenly surveying the horizon.

The operational systems aboard PS1 and PS2 were fully active throughout the patrol. The main radar, a critical component of their navigational and defensive capabilities, operated primarily in Mode 2. However, the crew skillfully and periodically switched to Modes 1 and 3 for brief intervals. This tactical variation in radar operation was designed to optimize their search capabilities, with the system swiftly reverting to standby after detecting even the slightest anomaly or 'blip' on the radar screen.​

 

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A Thai Fisherman
Image by alexeyzhilkin on Freepik​

The Thai PS1 and PS2 had been operating within the territorial waters and the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) of the Republic of Thailand. They maintained a steady speed of 10 knots, enabling them to cover over 6,500 nautical miles. Their navigation was precise, adhering to a measured course, deviating only when necessary for safety reasons.

Their patrol route was meticulously charted, avoiding areas of turbulent weather and regions rich in underwater flora and fauna. The ships' primary focus was on safeguarding the security of the Thai people and their maritime interests. This included providing escorts, ensuring safe passage for vessels, and enforcing maritime laws within Thailand's jurisdiction.

Onboard, the personnel and sailors enjoyed access to luxurious, well-maintained facilities, designed for optimal efficiency and comfort. The sustenance provided was sustainable, delicious, and nutritionally balanced, catering to the diverse needs of the crew. Furthermore, comprehensive programs for physical and mental conditioning were available, aimed at maintaining the crew’s operational readiness and personal well-being at the highest level achievable by human standards.

During this deployment, they patrolled the designated maritime zone for 28 days, a duration subject to change only if unforeseeable events arose. Before returning to their base for refueling and resupplying, meticulous logs were maintained to document the patrol's progress and any notable incidents. Consistent communication channels were established with the deployed assets in Operation Guardian Harmony, ensuring swift and comprehensive liaison. This coordination allowed for real-time sharing of intelligence and operational updates.

Any suspicious activities or circumstances encountered during the patrol were not only recorded but also closely monitored by the Thai Coast Guard. This included gathering and analyzing visual and electronic evidence, which was then systematically relayed back to the headquarters for further assessment and action. These measures ensured that every piece of information, no matter how minor, was scrutinized and used to inform ongoing and future operations.​

 

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One of the busiest ports in Southeast Asia, the Port of Singapore
Image by Port Technology International​

A few days had passed since the Thai Patrol Squadrons One (PS1) and Two (PS2) had set sail into Thailand's waters, encompassing both its territorial domain and the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). During this duration, they had diligently assisted in executing law enforcement tasks, environmental conservation initiatives, and providing escort services to non-threatening vessels.

Despite the frequent passage of larger and more heavily armed warships from Operation Guardian Harmony through the Malacca Strait—part of a broader mission to patrol Southeast Asian waters—the Thai Navy deemed it necessary to deploy its pair of ships in this strategic region. HTMS Pattani, departing from the Andaman Sea, and HTMS Yarang, originating from the Gulf of Thailand, were specifically selected for this mission, charting a course through the bustling Singapore Strait.

Throughout this deployment, the crews of HTMS Pattani and HTMS Yarang adhered strictly to their established protocols and regimens. This routine was maintained except in instances where potential threats were identified. In such scenarios, the ships were equipped to swiftly alter their posture and engage in defensive or proactive measures, as dictated by the nature of the threat and the overarching rules of engagement set by the Thai Navy. Their presence in these waters, though smaller in scale compared to the warships of Operation Guardian Harmony, symbolized a persistent and vigilant guardianship over Thailand's maritime interests.

Charting their course between NJ and OJ, the fleet, with fuel and supplies fully stocked as per the established guidance, traveled outside the territorial waters of any country, setting their destination towards the Malacca Strait. Sailing at a steady 10 knots, this pace had been strategically chosen for its efficiency, allowing the fleet to cover over 5,000 nautical miles or approximately 9,260 kilometers. This was a significant improvement compared to their previous capability at 15 knots, which limited their range to 3,500 nautical miles or around 6,500 kilometers.

During this deployment, they proactively communicated their route of innocent passage through the Malacca and Singapore Straits to the authorities and governments of Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia. The course plotted for both Thai OPVs was meticulously planned, prioritizing minimal disruption to commercial and civilian maritime traffic.

As a gesture of goodwill and international camaraderie, the Thai fleet hoisted their national flag alongside the flags of Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia. As they navigated close to any settlements or near Singapore City, a majority of the Thai sailors assembled on deck. In a display of respect and acknowledgment, they saluted the neighboring countries, communities, and populations. This display of solidarity was conducted while ensuring that enough personnel remained at their posts, ready for immediate action and equipped to handle any eventuality or engagement that might arise.​

 

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The Thai HTMS Pattani and HTMS Yarang, meticulously adhering to the established guidelines, protocols, and navigational regimens, had traversed back and forth through the Malacca and Singapore Straits. This routine operation, executed with precision, involved careful monitoring of key transit points and strategic sea lanes. They maintained constant communication with regional maritime authorities, ensuring seamless integration into the broader security framework of the area. Upon completion of their precise and well-coordinated patrol through these vital waterways, they returned to their designated patrolling area off the coast of Thailand. Their journey, marked by vigilant observation and careful adherence to maritime protocols, reinforced their commitment to regional stability and safe passage through these critical straits.

The Thai PS1 and PS2 had been actively operating within Thailand's territorial waters and Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), often maneuvering close to the boundary of the Thai EEZ. Their patrols, strategically planned, ensured a strong presence along these crucial maritime borders.

The personnel aboard PS1 and PS2 were in prime physical and mental condition, benefiting from a healthcare system that prioritized their well-being. These elite sailors of the Thai Navy were the product of a stringent 16-week training program, which covered a comprehensive range of maritime and combat scenarios. Their high operational efficiency, proficiency, and readiness were further honed by their participation in the year-long Operation Coastal Shield, an initiative that tested and improved their skills in real-world situations.

Nutrition and comfort were paramount. The crew received meals that were not only luxurious but also meticulously balanced and tailored to each individual's dietary needs, contributing to their optimal health. The vessels' facilities, including fitness centers, relaxation areas, and medical units, were state-of-the-art, maintained to the highest standards, and constantly updated to ensure maximum efficiency and comfort.

In essence, these sailors were exceptionally well-rested, well-nourished, and highly trained. Their state of alertness and readiness for any eventuality, be it an accident, incident, or engagement, was unparalleled, marking them as a formidable presence in their assigned maritime domain.

The vessels of PS1 and PS2, specifically the Pattani-class Offshore Patrol Vessels (OPVs), had reached an imposing peak in operational efficiency, reliability, proficiency, and readiness, characteristic of the prime time in any maritime vessel's operational life. Their structural integrity, along with onboard installations, layouts, configurations, facilities, and systems, were subject to continuous, rigorous review and enhancement by the Thai Navy. This process involved regular assessments, maintenance, optimization, and modernization efforts, ensuring that each component functioned at its best.

Moreover, all systems within these vessels, including the armament systems, operated with unwavering efficiency and precision. To maintain heightened vigilance and readiness, these systems, particularly the radar systems, adhered strictly to a defined protocol. Contrary to any ambiguity, they consistently operated without alternating their radar modes between 1 and 3 every 5 minutes. This disciplined approach to system operation underscored their commitment to steadfast readiness and strategic operational capacity.

The Republic Thai Navy Coast Guard, with its Naval Patrolling Group (NPG), had been diligently assigned the task of patrolling the expansive waters of Southeast Asia. Their mission included the critical role of reporting and disseminating intelligence back to the headquarters. During this period, the Thai HTMS Loe Thai, a key vessel of the NPG operating under Operation Guardian Harmony, observed at least 9 Polish vessels transiting through the Timor Sea into the Pacific Ocean. This movement, labeled as a 'lawful military exercise,' was meticulously documented, including records of communication, navigational data, and weather readings.

The comprehensive intelligence gathered was promptly relayed to the Thai Armed Forces Headquarters. In response to this development, and as a direct consequence of the 'Poland Naval Reach Demonstration May 2003,' the deployment of the Thai PS1 and PS2 was strategically adjusted to monitor and assess the situation.

Amidst the backdrop of increasing naval activities and a notable rise in naval modernization among middle-power nations, the Thai Navy Coast Guard had proactively initiated a replacement program for its existing fleet, specifically targeting the Pattani-class and Krabi-class OPVs. This initiative had reached a pivotal stage, with the Coast Guard expressing a strong desire to expedite the process. Should this replacement endeavor succeed, it was anticipated that the Coast Guard would significantly upgrade its capabilities, replacing all 30 OPVs with a more advanced and technologically superior fleet, thereby enhancing their operational effectiveness in safeguarding regional maritime interests.​

 

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The Thai Patrol Squadrons One (PS1) and Two (PS2), which were operating at peak efficiency and readiness as previously stated, remained under close observation and scrutiny. This vigilant oversight was not only routine but also critical given their strategic roles. Upon receiving processed intelligence data from the Republic Thai Armed Forces Headquarters and the National Intelligence Agency, the Republic Thai Navy Headquarters meticulously reviewed and analyzed the information. This data, encompassing a wide array of intelligence inputs ranging from regional maritime activities to potential security threats, was crucial for tactical decision-making. The higher commands at the Navy Headquarters, after thorough consideration of this intelligence, adapted their strategies and directives for PS1 and PS2, ensuring that these squadrons were optimally positioned and prepared for any emerging scenarios or contingencies.

The Polish Royal Navy, recognized as a moderately formidable naval force from a middle power nation, had successfully navigated through the Timor Sea as part of its 'Polish Naval Reach Demonstration' in May 2003. This voyage, while not causing substantial alarm regarding regional security and stability, was nevertheless noteworthy. The fleet, comprising a well-balanced mix of frigates and support vessels, showcased its capabilities in maritime maneuvering and operational readiness. The demonstration, conducted under the banner of a 'lawful military exercise,' was carefully monitored by international observers. It subtly underscored the strategic mobility of the Polish Navy, emphasizing its ability to project power beyond its traditional sphere of influence and highlighting its proficiency in long-range naval operations.

With all these developments, it became increasingly evident that the Western powers were beginning to intervene in the region, primarily driven by their own interests, often overlooking the concerns and needs of local communities. In this evolving geopolitical landscape, the Thai Navy Coast Guard had not only publicly expressed a strong desire for the replacement program of all 30 'aging' OPVs but also emphasized the urgency of this initiative in light of current events. The recent developments in the region, marked by increased foreign presence and strategic maneuvers, further underscored the need to expedite the process. This strategic decision aimed at enhancing maritime capabilities and asserting a more autonomous regional role, ensuring that national and regional interests were more effectively safeguarded against external influences.

The Republic Thai Navy Coast Guard's 'Contemporary Corvette Program' (CCP) had officially commenced. With a host of domestic arms manufacturers eager to contribute, the Thai Coast Guard meticulously organized the competition into two distinct rounds for a streamlined and comprehensive evaluation process. In the initial phase, the 'Experiential Design Round,' participants were required to submit detailed proposals, encompassing innovative design blueprints and technological specifications for their envisioned Thai contemporary corvette. These proposals were assessed not only for their technical ingenuity but also for their practicality in meeting the unique demands of the Thai maritime landscape.

The most promising designs, selected by a panel of expert naval architects and military strategists, advanced to the subsequent 'Concept Demonstrator Round.' In this phase, participants were tasked with constructing scale models or prototypes, providing tangible demonstrations of their designs' capabilities. These models underwent rigorous evaluations, including assessments of their navigational proficiency, defense mechanisms, and adaptability to varying maritime conditions.

Ultimately, the winning design was to be awarded a prestigious contract for the actual construction of the Thai Corvette. This contract signified not just a business achievement but also a contribution to enhancing the maritime defense and strategic capabilities of the Thai Coast Guard.​

 

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During Operation Coastal Shield II, the data link systems, seamlessly integrated into the Republic Thai Armed Forces Headquarters (RTAFHQ), enabled all vessels patrolling Thai waters to gain from the comprehensive situational awareness encompassing the entirety of Southeast Asia (SEA). This integration was as vital as the assets deployed in Operation Guardian Harmony. The patrolling vessels involved in Operation Coastal Shield II, similar to their counterparts at RTAFHQ, had direct access to both the Situational Awareness Display (SAD) and the Tactical Picture Display (TPD) of the Command and Control (C2) System. These advanced systems provided real-time data, including maritime traffic patterns, weather conditions, and potential threats, thus enhancing their operational efficiency and strategic response capabilities. The integration of these systems ensured that the vessels had a detailed and continuously updated understanding of the maritime domain, crucial for making informed decisions during their patrols.

The Thai PS1 and PS2 had heightened their vigilance to unprecedented levels, acutely aware of the intense scrutiny from the Thai Navy Coast Guard's Contemporary Corvette Program (CCP). Every crew member aboard these ships exemplified the highest standards of professionalism, maintaining optimal health, mental well-being, and alertness, as previously described and demonstrated in rigorous training exercises and evaluations. The ships themselves, a testament to the Navy's commitment to excellence, operated at peak efficiency. This was evident in the meticulous maintenance of their propulsion systems, state-of-the-art navigation equipment, and advanced communication systems, all of which had been rigorously tested and fine-tuned as per the stringent requirements of the protocol. Their operational readiness and performance not only met but exceeded the expectations set by the regimens, reinforcing their critical role in the Thai Navy's strategic maritime objectives.​

 

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The Thai Patrol Squadrons One (PS1) and Two (PS2) had each successfully completed at least one comprehensive patrolling routine in the strategically vital regions of the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea. Upon their return to open waters, the vessels were fully refueled and resupplied, a process executed with precision and efficiency as per the established protocols that govern their seamless transition between base and sea operations. This routine ensured their readiness for continuous, uninterrupted patrol duties.

The sailors on board PS1 and PS2 were a testament to peak human condition, both mentally and physically. Each member had adhered to a strict, health-centric regimen, uniquely tailored to their individual needs, encompassing balanced nutrition, regular physical training, and mental resilience exercises. This comprehensive approach to well-being ensured that every sailor was prepared to perform at their utmost capacity under any circumstance.

Furthermore, the vessels themselves, integral components of PS1 and PS2, were in a state of optimal structural integrity and operational efficiency. Rigorous maintenance routines and thorough inspections were routinely conducted, a testament to the squadrons' commitment to safety and functionality. Notably, these vessels had maintained a flawless operational record, having experienced no incidents or accidents that could compromise their safety or hinder their patrolling capabilities.

During their patrolling mission, the Pattani-class OPV utilized its Selex RAN-30X/I multimode surveillance radar systems, which were equipped with IFF (Identification Friend or Foe) technology. The radar operators, trained in advanced surveillance techniques, adeptly switched the system between Mode 2 and Modes 1 and 3 at one-minute intervals. This frequent switching enhanced the detection capabilities, allowing for a more comprehensive monitoring of both aerial and surface activities in their patrol zone.

The crew members responsible for these systems were not only vigilant but also highly experienced, having undergone rigorous training in radar operation and threat identification. Their alertness was complemented by their keen awareness of the operational area, which allowed them to quickly identify and classify any contacts or anomalies detected by the radar. This constant state of readiness ensured that they were prepared to respond promptly to any unexpected occurrences during their patrol.

"In the event of a detection, whether sourced from surface or air search surveillance, every piece of information gleaned from the vessel's sophisticated systems was meticulously recorded. This data, encompassing but not limited to precise weather readings, detailed navigational data, and distinct radar signatures, was promptly relayed back to the headquarters for further analysis. The recordings included time stamps, geographic coordinates, and specific environmental conditions to provide a comprehensive context.

If the object in question was unidentified, the crews onboard, trained in protocol for such encounters, would initiate an attempt to establish communication. They would use a secure, encrypted line, designed to prevent interception or eavesdropping, to reach out to the unidentified entity. Their primary objective was to discern the nature, intention, and affiliation of the contact. The content of these communications, along with any responses received, were also recorded in detail. This included the exact time of communication, the frequency used, and any linguistic or technical peculiarities noted during the exchange.

In the event of an emergency, such as a fuel leak or fire onboard, the crew meticulously followed the emergency protocol, a procedure ingrained in them through rigorous training. To ensure minimal collateral damage and a safe return to their base for maintenance and repair, their actions were precise and swift. This included the immediate isolation of the incident area, executed with practiced coordination. Vital valves and fuel pumps were shut down promptly to prevent further escalation of the situation.

The crew had deployed fire extinguishers, strategically placed throughout the vessel for quick access, tackling the fire with efficiency. Furthermore, the onboard crew mechanics, equipped with a comprehensive knowledge of the ship's systems and ad-hoc repair techniques, had undertaken improvised repairs. These measures were not just textbook procedures but were adapted to the specifics of the incident, displaying the crew's adaptability and deep understanding of their vessel's intricacies. Their actions had not only averted a potential disaster but also demonstrated the crew's preparedness and competence in handling high-stress situations.​

 

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The Patrol Squadrons One (PS1) and Two (PS2), integral components of Operation Coastal Shield, functioned as the primary inner line of defense against maritime threats. While Operation Guardian Harmony was responsible for overseeing a vast network of patrolling vessels and surveillance across Southeast Asian waters, the focus of Operation Coastal Shield predominantly revolved around law enforcement and coastal surveillance duties. These squadrons were equipped with 10 Pattani-class OPVs, which, though traditional in their naval design, lacked the advanced defensive and offensive capabilities such as Anti-Ship Missiles (ASM) and Surface-to-Air Missiles (SAM) found in more modern fleets. To compensate for this vulnerability, and in light of their robust network across Asia and the proximity of Republic Navy fleets, their interoperability with the Air Force was given top priority. Specifically, the PS1 and PS2 maintained close coordination with the assets of Operation Guardian Harmony for intelligence sharing. Their operational role extended to acting as first responders and primary coordinators for engagements involving units from Operation Aerial Shield. This strategic collaboration ensured that despite their limited offensive capabilities, the Pattani-class OPVs played a crucial role in the broader defensive strategy by leveraging the strengths of Republic Navy forces and maintaining a vigilant presence along critical coastal regions.

To bolster their operational readiness and interoperability, they routinely engaged in cross-coordination exercises as part of Operation Aerial Shield. The initial phase of these exercises focused primarily on coordination and communication. To facilitate this, they organized comprehensive briefing sessions where both air and naval crews were thoroughly acquainted with each other’s operational protocols, communication systems, and specific capabilities. This included firsthand training with communication equipment and simulated exercises to ensure seamless interaction. Furthermore, they established a robust, unified command structure under the expansive Aerial and Coastal Defense Command (ACDC). This command ensured fluid coordination between the air and naval forces, enhancing their collective response capability. Throughout these exercises, the OPVs played a crucial role in identifying and tracking surface threats. They efficiently relayed this information to the F-16 fighters and the Airborne Early Warning and Control (AEW&C) units, demonstrating their integral role in the defense network. In addition to these operations, they simulated intricate rescue operations where OPVs coordinated with air units to locate and recover personnel in distress at sea. These simulations included deploying rescue teams and managing emergency medical aid, underscoring the importance of rapid response in maritime crises. Furthermore, they conducted mock interdiction operations. In these scenarios, the OPVs, acting on intelligence provided by aerial surveillance units, skillfully intercepted, and investigated suspect vessels. These operations tested and refined the teams' ability to execute swift, coordinated actions based on real-time aerial intelligence, thereby showcasing their preparedness for actual maritime security challenges.

In executing these scenarios, they regularly incorporated OPVs into combat air patrol exercises, seamlessly blending maritime and air surveillance operations. These exercises often simulated scenarios where OPVs confronted surface threats, necessitating swift and strategic coordination with F-16s for critical air support. Drills were meticulously executed, where both OPVs and F-16s synergistically responded to a variety of simulated maritime threats, ranging from piracy incidents to instances of illegal fishing, showcasing their adaptability and readiness. During the advanced interoperability exercises, a key focus was on real-time information exchange and tactical communication between the OPVs and airborne units. This involved testing and refining the efficiency of their unified command structure, particularly in orchestrating complex operations that spanned multiple platforms and demanded high levels of coordination. Additionally, they conducted joint night-time exercises, rigorously testing the capabilities of both maritime and aerial forces under challenging low-visibility conditions. These exercises not only evaluated their operational readiness in nocturnal environments but also enhanced their proficiency in utilizing advanced night-vision and tracking technologies. This comprehensive approach ensured that each unit, whether at sea or in the air, operated with heightened awareness and precision, fully prepared to tackle a spectrum of potential threats in a unified and effective manner.

During their debriefing and assessment, they meticulously conducted joint analysis sessions following the exercises. These sessions were crucial for evaluating both individual and collective performance, as well as the degree of interoperability achieved between the units. They methodically dissected each scenario, identifying areas of improvement with a keen focus on refining tactics, enhancing communication protocols, and strengthening coordination strategies. In these sessions, they employed a variety of analytical tools, including video replay of exercises, data analysis from communication logs, and feedback from participating personnel. This comprehensive approach allowed them to pinpoint specific moments in the exercises where coordination could be optimized or where communication breakdowns occurred. The findings from these sessions informed the planning for subsequent enhancements, ensuring a continuous and dynamic evolution of their operational capabilities.​

 

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All vessels would have returned to their home port after the National Assembly of Thailand had ruled that this operation must be reviewed before being able to be redeployed again.