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Title: Operation Gathering Storm
Document Number: RTAF-GASTM-001/2004
Classification: Top Secret | Secret Eyes Only
Security Level: NSST 1.0 Architecture
Date: April 24, 2004
XI. IntroductionX
Background and Objective
Following the prolonged siege of Damascus, the Syrian government is now severely constrained, unable to counter the escalating threat posed by Islamic militants. The fall of multiple government checkpoints to extremist forces underscores the Syrian Arab Army's failure to curb the spread of terrorism, posing a significant threat to Thai interests in the Middle East and to global stability at large.
In response, high-level deliberations have taken place in Bangkok involving the Prime Minister and the Minister of Defense, along with the Chief of Staff of the Republic Thai Armed Forces. The unchecked rise of extremism in the Middle East could trigger a cascading series of security threats worldwide, affecting nations on a global scale.
Operation Gathering Storm, a classified military directive of the Republic Thai Armed Forces, has been designated Top Secret and is restricted to Secret Eyes Only access. This operation, the first of its kind since the cessation of military governance in 2002, is critical to national and international security. The utmost discretion is imperative; the operation's success hinges not only on the capabilities of the deployed forces but also on maintaining the confidentiality of Thailand's involvement. The integrity of this operation must be shielded from external scrutiny at all costs to ensure its effectiveness and to safeguard Thai strategic interests.
The objective of this operation is complex and necessitates advanced operational capabilities to simultaneously accomplish multiple strategic goals. Central to this mission is the imperative to halt the proliferation of terrorism and extremism within Syria. Achieving this requires the Thai Armed Forces to develop a comprehensive and robust intelligence network, employing both traditional and innovative methods. Following the detailed identification of all relevant factions in Syria, it is imperative for the Republic Government to ascertain which group should be decisively supported, thereby facilitating their triumph in the Syrian Civil War.
The operational theater will encompass the entire territory of Syria, currently marked by volatility and ambiguity. One of the primary challenges during the initial phase will be the accurate classification of allies and adversaries. In the absence of global engagement with Syria’s profound humanitarian crisis, this operation must proceed under the exclusive auspices of the Republic Government. The careful navigation of these complexities is critical to the success of our strategic objectives and the stability of the region.
In response, high-level deliberations have taken place in Bangkok involving the Prime Minister and the Minister of Defense, along with the Chief of Staff of the Republic Thai Armed Forces. The unchecked rise of extremism in the Middle East could trigger a cascading series of security threats worldwide, affecting nations on a global scale.
Operation Gathering Storm, a classified military directive of the Republic Thai Armed Forces, has been designated Top Secret and is restricted to Secret Eyes Only access. This operation, the first of its kind since the cessation of military governance in 2002, is critical to national and international security. The utmost discretion is imperative; the operation's success hinges not only on the capabilities of the deployed forces but also on maintaining the confidentiality of Thailand's involvement. The integrity of this operation must be shielded from external scrutiny at all costs to ensure its effectiveness and to safeguard Thai strategic interests.
The objective of this operation is complex and necessitates advanced operational capabilities to simultaneously accomplish multiple strategic goals. Central to this mission is the imperative to halt the proliferation of terrorism and extremism within Syria. Achieving this requires the Thai Armed Forces to develop a comprehensive and robust intelligence network, employing both traditional and innovative methods. Following the detailed identification of all relevant factions in Syria, it is imperative for the Republic Government to ascertain which group should be decisively supported, thereby facilitating their triumph in the Syrian Civil War.
The operational theater will encompass the entire territory of Syria, currently marked by volatility and ambiguity. One of the primary challenges during the initial phase will be the accurate classification of allies and adversaries. In the absence of global engagement with Syria’s profound humanitarian crisis, this operation must proceed under the exclusive auspices of the Republic Government. The careful navigation of these complexities is critical to the success of our strategic objectives and the stability of the region.
XII. Command and ControlX
2.1 Guidance
This operation is conducted under the guidance of the Republic Thai Armed Forces Middle East Command, with the Republic Thai Armed Forces Headquarters serving as the central operational hub. The Ministry of Defense, acting under the authority of Minister of Defense Sutin Klungsang and with the explicit approval of Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra, hereby authorizes this operation. This authorization reflects the significant strategic importance and gravity of the mission, ensuring that all actions taken are in alignment with our national security objectives and the directives issued at the highest levels of government.
XIII. Operational ForcesX
Republic Thai Armed Forces Middle East Command
- Tatvan/Bitlis Army Division
- [45] Tatvan/Bitlis Long Range Reconnaissance Company
- [7] GAZ Vodnik
- [4]First Win MRAP
- [4] Hermes 450
- [45] Tatvan/Bitlis Long Range Reconnaissance Company
- Task Force Gathering Storm (NEG5)
- [1] Chakri Narubet-Class Light Aircraft Carrier
- HTMS Sukhothai Narubet
- 1,076 Crews
- RTNAF Squadron 507
- [11] Eurocopter EC725
- [11] Hermes 450
- HTMS Sukhothai Narubet
- [2] Naresuan-Class Frigate
- HTMS Thong Lan
- 150 Crew
- [1] Eurocopter EC725
- HTMS Ramrachathirat
- 150 Crew
- [1] Eurocopter EC725
- HTMS Thong Lan
- [1] Chakri Narubet-Class Light Aircraft Carrier
4.1 Initial Deployment
All personnel are required to report to their assigned bases fully equipped in accordance with Defense Ministry guidelines. The Tatvan/Bitlis Long Range Reconnaissance Company and Task Force Gathering Storm will deploy immediately to designated coordinates at 37°10'52.45"N 40°37'39.73"E and 34°58'27.59"N 35°35'28.27"E, respectively. It is imperative to note that Thai forces will not enter the territorial waters of any nation, and ground forces will remain within the confines of the Turkish border. Personnel must ensure they are well-rested, adhering to strict health regimens, and maintain peak mental and physical vigor, in which these characteristics are consistent throughout the deployment. All equipment must be in optimal condition, with the necessary supplies and ammunition for each piece of equipment adequately stocked and transported.
4.2 Communication
Effective communication among all units is paramount and must be maintained through the use of secure communication channels. Any unidentified or suspicious activity must be immediately reported to the command center, except in situations where such actions are deemed non-ideal or potentially detrimental. In these cases, all units and personnel, who are thoroughly trained and well-versed in operational protocols, must exercise their best judgment in handling the situation. All personnel have undergone rigorous training to ensure flawless communication protocols are followed within and between units. This training emphasizes excellence in both verbal and non-verbal information conveyance, ensuring that all communications are clear, concise, and secure.
4.3 Rules of Engagement
Engagement will be per the established Rule of Engagement (ROE) with the application of Threat Detected (TDE) and international laws. The use of force must be proportionate and may be authorized to neutralize identified threats, with a focus on preventing escalation. The Army can engage in combat to neutralize ground threats after confirming hostile intent. The Navy is authorized to neutralize maritime threats, with an emphasis on limiting civilian harm. The Air Force can neutralize aerial threats after confirming hostile intent, ensuring minimal collateral damage.
4.4 Support
Logistic support, including fuel, supplies, and maintenance, will be provided by the respective naval bases. Each soldier is equipped with lightweight, bullet-resistant body armor and helmet integrated with high ballistic protection while ensuring the greatest possible mobility, and includes an advanced ventilation system. The standard issue firearm is the M4A1 rifle comes equipped with Picatinny rails for the attachment of various accessories such as optical sights, lasers, and tactical lights and the secondary weapon, the M1911 pistol. Each soldier also carries an array of grenades, including smoke for cover, fragmentation for offense, and flash for disorienting enemies. All personnel are issued advanced, encrypted tactical radios with a long-range and high clarity. The GPS systems provided are military-grade, featuring both standard location tracking and topographical mapping functions.
The soldiers are equipped with a wide array of specialized equipment that include night vision goggles with thermal imaging for operations in low-light conditions. Soldiers also carry multi-purpose tactical knives, suitable for both combat and survival scenarios. Every soldier carries a personal first aid kit equipped with advanced medical supplies, such as quick-clotting agents for hemorrhage control, tourniquets, and emergency trauma dressings. Soldiers are provided with compact but comprehensive survival kits which include water purification tablets, compact multi-fuel stoves, high-calorie emergency rations, and signal flares. Soldiers are also equipped with technical gear such as portable charging units for electronic equipment, tactical flashlights, laser range finders for accurate distance measurements, and lightweight but robust binoculars.
Each seafarer is equipped with lightweight, waterproof body armor that integrates nanotechnology for maximum resistance against ballistic threats and corrosion from saltwater. The armor also provides buoyancy support, aiding survival in water. The standard issue firearm for naval personnel is the Heckler & Koch HK416 rifle fitted with accessory rails for attachments like tactical lights and optical sights. The Sig Sauer P226, used as the sidearm and personnel are also equipped with a variety of munitions including fragmentation, smoke, and flash grenades. Naval personnel are issued advanced, encrypted tactical radios and maritime GPS systems that maintain their functionality even in the harshest sea conditions. The GPS systems are equipped with maritime charts and include features for weather forecasts and sea current patterns to aid in navigation.
Navy personnel are issued a range of specialized equipment based on their assignments, which also includes state-of-the-art diving gear equipped with rebreathers for extended underwater operations. Each sailor is provided with a personal first aid kit that includes advanced medical supplies such as saline solution for hydration, sea sickness tablets, and sunburn treatments. Each member also has access to personal comprehensive survival kit that includes items like life rafts, signal flares, long-life water and food rations, fishing kits, and solar stills for desalination of seawater. Navy personnel also carry technical equipment such as multi-function watches with depth meters and compasses, handheld sonar devices for detecting underwater obstacles, and laser range finders for accurate distance measurements.
Army vehicles like GAZ Vodnik is armed to withstand small arms fire, enemy mines and shells' shrapnel. The vehicle itself is armed with 14.5 mm KPVT heavy machine gun as the main weapon and 7.62 mm PKT machine gun as the secondary armament. Each Hermes 450 UAV can carry four Spike-LR missile and the Eurocopter EC725 can carry one torpedo in addition to two heavy machine guns and rocket pods. First Win MRAP is armed with armor of STANAG 4569 Level 3 where it can withstand 7.62×51mm AP (WC core) at 30 meters with 930 m/s at the angle or azimuth 360° and elevation of 0–30°. It can withstand 8 kg (explosive mass) Blast AT Mine (3a – Mine Explosion pressure activated under any wheel or track location; 3b – Mine Explosion under center.) Additionally, the First Win MRAP can withstand 155 mm High Explosive at 60 m at angle or azimuth 360° at elevation of 0–30°. It can be armed with 7.62 mm MG, 0.5 cal HMG, or 40 mm AGL.
The Naresuan-class Frigates would be equipped with 6 × Decoys Terma SKWS (C-Guard) for 24 x Terma DL-12T and 24 x Terma Mk.137 each, and ESM ITT ES-3601 (AN/SLQ-4), and ECM Type 984-1 noise jammer & Type 981-3 deception jammer, which both could reach the effective range of 100 kilometers. - C-Guard inventory included 12 Mk214 Seduction Chaff rounds, designed to confuse enemy radar systems; 12 Mk216 Distraction Chaff rounds, used to divert incoming missiles away from the ship; 6 Mk245 "GIANT" IR Rounds, which were especially effective against heat-seeking missiles; and 18 Mk251 "Siren" Active Decoy Rounds, capable of deflecting enemy anti-ship missiles by replicating the ship's radar signature. Their armament included 1 × 5 in/54 (127 mm) Mk 45 Mod 2 naval gun with 500 rounds, 2 × 30mm MSI-DSL DS30MR automated small caliber gun with 2,000 rounds each, 8 cell Mk.41 VLS for 32 x RIM-162 ESSM, 8 × RGM-84 Harpoon SSM launcher for 8 × RGM(L) Harpoon Block II (Range: 278 km), and 2 × Triple Mark 32 Mod 5 torpedo tube with 6 × Mark 54. They had Atlas DSQS-24d sonar (Active: 6-9 KHz | Passive 1-11 KHz) (Effective range 15 km Max: 40 km). They can travel for 5600 nautical miles (10371.2 kilometers) at 12 knots or 4000 nautical miles (7408) kilometers at 18 knots. The frigate has the capacity to control and guide six missiles at the same time from its four fire control systems.
The Chakri Narubet Class would be equipped with 4 × SRBOC decoy launchers for 24 decoys each (additional 140 service rounds ready to be loaded from reserve) and SLQ-32 towed decoy. Their armament would include 4 × Rheinmetall Mk 20 DM6 20mm/80 caliber with 15,000 rounds of HEI (High-Explosive Incendiary) or AP (Armor-Piercing) combination, 2 × 0.5-inch machine guns and 3 × sextuple Sadral launchers for Mistral surface-to-air missiles. Their deck can carry up to 10 aircraft with another 12 in the hangar. They have two transport lifts for these helicopters and another 2 lifts to transport supplies for 32 sorites of all kinds of armament. Each Eurocopter EC725 would be able to be equipped with a pair of 7.62 mm FN MAG machine guns with 200 rounds each mounted within forward left and right windows, or two air-to-ground rocket system 68 mm (2.75") with 19 tubes, and one MU9 Impact torpedo.
The soldiers are equipped with a wide array of specialized equipment that include night vision goggles with thermal imaging for operations in low-light conditions. Soldiers also carry multi-purpose tactical knives, suitable for both combat and survival scenarios. Every soldier carries a personal first aid kit equipped with advanced medical supplies, such as quick-clotting agents for hemorrhage control, tourniquets, and emergency trauma dressings. Soldiers are provided with compact but comprehensive survival kits which include water purification tablets, compact multi-fuel stoves, high-calorie emergency rations, and signal flares. Soldiers are also equipped with technical gear such as portable charging units for electronic equipment, tactical flashlights, laser range finders for accurate distance measurements, and lightweight but robust binoculars.
Each seafarer is equipped with lightweight, waterproof body armor that integrates nanotechnology for maximum resistance against ballistic threats and corrosion from saltwater. The armor also provides buoyancy support, aiding survival in water. The standard issue firearm for naval personnel is the Heckler & Koch HK416 rifle fitted with accessory rails for attachments like tactical lights and optical sights. The Sig Sauer P226, used as the sidearm and personnel are also equipped with a variety of munitions including fragmentation, smoke, and flash grenades. Naval personnel are issued advanced, encrypted tactical radios and maritime GPS systems that maintain their functionality even in the harshest sea conditions. The GPS systems are equipped with maritime charts and include features for weather forecasts and sea current patterns to aid in navigation.
Navy personnel are issued a range of specialized equipment based on their assignments, which also includes state-of-the-art diving gear equipped with rebreathers for extended underwater operations. Each sailor is provided with a personal first aid kit that includes advanced medical supplies such as saline solution for hydration, sea sickness tablets, and sunburn treatments. Each member also has access to personal comprehensive survival kit that includes items like life rafts, signal flares, long-life water and food rations, fishing kits, and solar stills for desalination of seawater. Navy personnel also carry technical equipment such as multi-function watches with depth meters and compasses, handheld sonar devices for detecting underwater obstacles, and laser range finders for accurate distance measurements.
Army vehicles like GAZ Vodnik is armed to withstand small arms fire, enemy mines and shells' shrapnel. The vehicle itself is armed with 14.5 mm KPVT heavy machine gun as the main weapon and 7.62 mm PKT machine gun as the secondary armament. Each Hermes 450 UAV can carry four Spike-LR missile and the Eurocopter EC725 can carry one torpedo in addition to two heavy machine guns and rocket pods. First Win MRAP is armed with armor of STANAG 4569 Level 3 where it can withstand 7.62×51mm AP (WC core) at 30 meters with 930 m/s at the angle or azimuth 360° and elevation of 0–30°. It can withstand 8 kg (explosive mass) Blast AT Mine (3a – Mine Explosion pressure activated under any wheel or track location; 3b – Mine Explosion under center.) Additionally, the First Win MRAP can withstand 155 mm High Explosive at 60 m at angle or azimuth 360° at elevation of 0–30°. It can be armed with 7.62 mm MG, 0.5 cal HMG, or 40 mm AGL.
The Naresuan-class Frigates would be equipped with 6 × Decoys Terma SKWS (C-Guard) for 24 x Terma DL-12T and 24 x Terma Mk.137 each, and ESM ITT ES-3601 (AN/SLQ-4), and ECM Type 984-1 noise jammer & Type 981-3 deception jammer, which both could reach the effective range of 100 kilometers. - C-Guard inventory included 12 Mk214 Seduction Chaff rounds, designed to confuse enemy radar systems; 12 Mk216 Distraction Chaff rounds, used to divert incoming missiles away from the ship; 6 Mk245 "GIANT" IR Rounds, which were especially effective against heat-seeking missiles; and 18 Mk251 "Siren" Active Decoy Rounds, capable of deflecting enemy anti-ship missiles by replicating the ship's radar signature. Their armament included 1 × 5 in/54 (127 mm) Mk 45 Mod 2 naval gun with 500 rounds, 2 × 30mm MSI-DSL DS30MR automated small caliber gun with 2,000 rounds each, 8 cell Mk.41 VLS for 32 x RIM-162 ESSM, 8 × RGM-84 Harpoon SSM launcher for 8 × RGM(L) Harpoon Block II (Range: 278 km), and 2 × Triple Mark 32 Mod 5 torpedo tube with 6 × Mark 54. They had Atlas DSQS-24d sonar (Active: 6-9 KHz | Passive 1-11 KHz) (Effective range 15 km Max: 40 km). They can travel for 5600 nautical miles (10371.2 kilometers) at 12 knots or 4000 nautical miles (7408) kilometers at 18 knots. The frigate has the capacity to control and guide six missiles at the same time from its four fire control systems.
The Chakri Narubet Class would be equipped with 4 × SRBOC decoy launchers for 24 decoys each (additional 140 service rounds ready to be loaded from reserve) and SLQ-32 towed decoy. Their armament would include 4 × Rheinmetall Mk 20 DM6 20mm/80 caliber with 15,000 rounds of HEI (High-Explosive Incendiary) or AP (Armor-Piercing) combination, 2 × 0.5-inch machine guns and 3 × sextuple Sadral launchers for Mistral surface-to-air missiles. Their deck can carry up to 10 aircraft with another 12 in the hangar. They have two transport lifts for these helicopters and another 2 lifts to transport supplies for 32 sorites of all kinds of armament. Each Eurocopter EC725 would be able to be equipped with a pair of 7.62 mm FN MAG machine guns with 200 rounds each mounted within forward left and right windows, or two air-to-ground rocket system 68 mm (2.75") with 19 tubes, and one MU9 Impact torpedo.
XV. CoordinationX
5.1 Inter-agency
Inter-agency communication between the Republic Thai Army and the Republic Thai Navy within the Republic Armed Forces Middle East Command will be rigorously upheld, prioritizing security measures at all times. Liaison channels facilitating communication and information sharing between these agencies are established and overseen by the Republic Thai Armed Forces Headquarters. Integral to this communication infrastructure are the Tactical Power Display (TPD), Situation Awareness Display (SAD), and Maritime Awareness Display (MAD), all seamlessly integrated into the coordination and communication systems of all units involved. The comprehensive situational awareness and operational effectiveness across both land and maritime domains are ensured in this deployment and operation with undisturbed consistency.
5.2 International
Any decision to coordinate with foreign entities, whether at an informal or official level, must be promptly reported back to Headquarters for immediate deliberation in conjunction with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Given the sensitive nature of the operation and its implications for national security, utmost secrecy is paramount. Any individuals not directly involved in the operation must be regarded with the highest level of scrutiny by both organizational and governmental authorities. Additionally, any interactions with foreign units must be conducted with discretion, presenting the appearance of routine deployment with no ulterior motives. These protocols must be strictly follow to minimizes the risk of compromising operational security and ensures that our objectives remain safeguarded.
XVI. ConclusionX
The comprehensive mobilization of resources and assets by the Ministry of Defense underscores the gravity and importance of Operation Gathering Storm. This operation stands as the pinnacle of sophistication and complexity, embodying the highest levels of strategic planning and execution. As the most confidential military endeavor sanctioned since the inception of the Republic of Thailand in 1998, Operation Gathering Storm reflects our unwavering commitment to safeguarding national interests and ensuring global stability. With resolve and determination, we embark upon this mission, poised to overcome challenges, and achieve our objectives with unwavering precision and dedication.
[Signature]
Sutin Klungsang
Defence Minister
[Signature]
Thaksin Shinawatra
Prime Minister, Republic of Thailand
Document Clearance:
The Office of the Prime Minister
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs
The National Intelligence Agency
The Republic Thai Air Force Command Center
The Republic Thai Navy Command Center
The Republic Thai Army Command Center
The Republic Thai Armed Forces Special Warfare & Operation Command
The Republic Thai Armed Forces Middle East Command Center
Distribution List:
The Office of the Prime Minister
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs
The National Intelligence Agency
The Republic Thai Air Force Command Center
The Republic Thai Navy Command Center
The Republic Thai Army 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
The Republic Thai Army Special Warfare Command
The Republic Thai Armed Forces Middle East Command Center
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