- May 4, 2021
- 2,947
Secret unless contextual possible.
Below was the condition of the fleet in an accurate manner.
During the fleet's cruise to France, the Similan-class Replenishment Ships played an important role in preserving the fleet's operational efficiency. These ships were responsible for replenishing critical supplies, fuel, and other essentials, ensuring that the fleet remained self-sufficient and prepared for long-term deployment. The fleet's airborne and surface surveillance radars were operational and active throughout the voyage. This ongoing monitoring was critical for maintaining situational awareness and early identification of any threats or changes in the marine environment. Furthermore, the fleet strategically used passive sonar sensors to surreptitiously monitor undersea activity, providing an important layer of surveillance to supplement their surface and aerial monitoring capabilities. In tandem, the fleet's Electronic Support Measures (ESM) systems were constantly used to acquire critical electronic intelligence. This allowed them to keep updated about the electronic emissions of other vessels and sites in their surroundings, thus boosting their situational awareness and strategic preparation. Meanwhile, the crew's well-being was a top focus. Comprehensive mental and physical health programs were in place, including proper rest times and a variety of drills. These programs were meant to keep all soldiers in top physical and mental shape, ready to handle any emergency.
Throughout the expedition, the HTMS Sukohthai Narubet served as the command ship for Naval Expeditionary Group Five (NEG5). This strategic placement was important for coordinating and commanding the whole fleet. The fleet used a highly secure and secret communication protocol, which ensured that all conversations inside the fleet and with the Armed Forces Headquarters were confidential and resistant to external interception. Each vessel in NEG5 was responsible for providing regular updates on their condition, including operational readiness, equipment status, and crew well-being. The flagship, HTMS Sukhothai Narubet, collated all of this information to keep a detailed assessment of the fleet's status. This data was then communicated back to the Armed Forces Headquarters over a dedicated, secure connection, keeping the headquarters up to date on the fleet's condition and progress. The fleet also paid special attention to environmental conditions and weather patterns. This careful monitoring was not only critical for navigation safety, but it also helped them organize their operations effectively. Adapting to changing weather conditions and anticipating environmental problems allowed the fleet to move more effectively while avoiding possible risks. Furthermore, the fleet was careful to avoid interfering with civilian marine traffic. To ensure operational integrity and compliance with international maritime rules, the fleet may interact with civilian vessels as needed. These contacts were handled with the highest professionalism and care, ensuring that civilian operations were not hampered by the fleet's movements. To prevent disputes or misunderstandings, the fleet altered their route or coordinated with civilian vessels when they approached them.
Furthermore, the fleet was careful to avoid interfering with civilian marine traffic. To ensure operational integrity and compliance with international maritime rules, the fleet may interact with civilian vessels as needed. These contacts were handled with the highest professionalism and care, ensuring that civilian operations were not hampered by the fleet's movements. To prevent disputes or misunderstandings, the fleet altered their route or coordinated with civilian vessels when they approached them. Mechanical crews on each ship contributed significantly to the fleet's operational preparedness. They performed regular and detailed maintenance inspections, as well as technical appraisals, to ensure that all boats were in optimal working order. Their responsibilities included engine checks and hull inspections, as well as electronic system evaluations, to ensure that all aspects of the fleet's operating capabilities were up to par. Furthermore, the fleet has extensive contingency procedures in place to deal with probable emergencies or unexpected scenarios. One such strategy included a thorough process for responding quickly if a marine distress call was received nearby. This protocol detailed procedures for timely deployment of search and rescue teams, cooperation with nearby vessels, and prompt communication with local maritime authorities. Another contingency plan was devised for mechanical breakdowns or technical difficulties on any vessel, which included procedures for on-the-spot repairs, seeking assistance from escorting ships, and rerouting to the nearest port as needed. These plans were reviewed and revised on a frequent basis to reflect the changing conditions of the route and the many maritime zones they traveled through.
Throughout the voyage, the fleet prioritized battle preparation, launching a series of intense tactical training exercises and simulations. These exercises were methodically planned to cover a wide range of situations, including fake drills for anti-piracy operations, anti-submarine warfare, and modern missile defence techniques. The regularity of these training sessions assured that the soldiers were not only intellectually prepared, but also practically competent in dealing with real-world combat circumstances. These drills frequently featured cross-departmental collaboration, simulating complicated combat scenarios that need clear communication and quick decisions. In today's naval scene, cybersecurity is just as important as physical defense. Recognizing this, the fleet deployed advanced cybersecurity systems on all vessels. A specialized team of cybersecurity professionals was in charge of maintaining network integrity, performing regular system audits, and guaranteeing a strong defense against any cyber attacks. This team worked relentlessly to protect critical data and communication lines, playing an important role in ensuring operational security. Medical preparation was another key component of the fleet's plan. Each ship has a well-staffed and well-equipped infirmary capable of dealing with a variety of medical situations. Onboard medical crews, including qualified practitioners, received training in rapid medical response techniques. These guidelines were frequently reviewed and revised to provide the greatest degree of preparedness for any medical emergency. Furthermore, the fleet included specialist crews trained in damage management and emergency response. These teams were prepared to respond quickly to any onboard mishaps or hostile activities, with the appropriate tools and experience to minimize damage and protect the crew and vessel's safety. Regular drills were undertaken to maintain these teams sharp and prepared for fast deployment in the event of an emergency.
Throughout their voyage, the NEG1 was fully prepared to deploy its sophisticated decoy systems at a moment's notice, if necessary. The Naresuan-class Frigates in the fleet were specifically designed for this mission, with decoy launchers strategically (and evenly distributed) positioned on both the port and starboard sides of each ship. These systems included 24 Terma Mk.137 and 24 Terma DL-12T decoy launchers, which provided broad coverage and rapid response capability. The types and quantities of ammunition placed into these systems were carefully selected to meet the mission's precise operating requirements. The 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. This broad array of decoys guaranteed that the frigates were prepared to face a wide range of threats, including radar-guided and infrared-guided missiles. The motivation for carrying such a diverse array of decoy systems aboard the Naresuan-class Frigates stemmed from their design philosophy. These frigates were designed to be cost-effective yet potent multi-role combat platforms. Their versatility in both defensive and offensive capacities made them an essential component of NEG1's strategic composition. Furthermore, frequent drills and training exercises were held during the cruise to ensure that the frigate crews were skilled in the deployment of these decoy systems. This training concentrated on rapid response scenarios, precise threat assessment, and effective deployment techniques, ensuring that the fleet was always prepared to defend itself against any type of aerial, missile, or torpedo attack.
A similarly robust and carefully planned decoy system was installed for self-defense on the Chakri Narubet-class light aircraft carrier. The carrier was outfitted with four Mark 36 SRBOC (Super Rapid Bloom Offboard Countermeasures) Mod 11 systems, totalling 24 launchers. These were deliberately positioned (and evenly dispersed) on both the port and starboard sides to provide maximum coverage and rapid deployment capabilities. In addition to the launchers, the carrier contained a large cache of 140 service rounds that were precisely arranged and ready to load. These were safely held in four customized lockers, allowing for fast access and reloading under high-threat circumstances. The ammo preloaded inside the launchers included 9 Mk214 Seduction Chaff rounds, 9 Mk216 Distraction Chaff rounds, and 6 Mk245 "GIANT" IR rounds. The lockers also included extra rounds for replenishment, including 52 Mk214 Seduction Chaff rounds, 52 Mk216 Distraction Chaff rounds, and 36 Mk245 "GIANT" IR rounds. This huge stockpile assured that the Chakri Narubet-class carrier could sustain long-term engagements while maintaining a defensive posture in a variety of threat situations. The carrier's crew was well-trained in the use of these decoy devices, and frequent exercises were held to maintain preparedness and efficiency. These drills covered rapid deployment, inventory management, and simulated threat response scenarios.
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. 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, 8 cell Mk.41 VLS for 32 x RIM-162 ESSM, 8 × RGM-84 Harpoon SSM launcher for 8 × Harpoon Block II, 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.
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 helicopters with another 10 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. The Kamov Ka-50 helicopters would have the following 24 sorties for the full armament of each option: Rockets: 80 × 80 mm S-8 rockets and 20 × 122 mm S-13 rocket, Missiles: 2 × APU-6 Missile racks, able to accommodate a total of 12 × 9K121 Vikhr anti-tank missiles, Bombs: 4 × 250 kg (550 lb) bombs or 2 × 500 kg (1,100 lb) bombs, and Other: 23 mm UPK-23-250 gun pods (240 rounds each), 500 L (130 US gal) external fuel tanks. Reportedly, twin Igla light air-to-air missile launchers under each wingtip countermeasure pod (total 4 missiles). "Iz 305" LMUR AGM/ATGM. Each of them would also carry two pods on the wingtips with flare and chaff countermeasure dispensers, 4 UV-26 dispensers each (total 32 chaff/flare cartridges in each pod).
Throughout the expedition, the HTMS Sukohthai Narubet served as the command ship for Naval Expeditionary Group Five (NEG5). This strategic placement was important for coordinating and commanding the whole fleet. The fleet used a highly secure and secret communication protocol, which ensured that all conversations inside the fleet and with the Armed Forces Headquarters were confidential and resistant to external interception. Each vessel in NEG5 was responsible for providing regular updates on their condition, including operational readiness, equipment status, and crew well-being. The flagship, HTMS Sukhothai Narubet, collated all of this information to keep a detailed assessment of the fleet's status. This data was then communicated back to the Armed Forces Headquarters over a dedicated, secure connection, keeping the headquarters up to date on the fleet's condition and progress. The fleet also paid special attention to environmental conditions and weather patterns. This careful monitoring was not only critical for navigation safety, but it also helped them organize their operations effectively. Adapting to changing weather conditions and anticipating environmental problems allowed the fleet to move more effectively while avoiding possible risks. Furthermore, the fleet was careful to avoid interfering with civilian marine traffic. To ensure operational integrity and compliance with international maritime rules, the fleet may interact with civilian vessels as needed. These contacts were handled with the highest professionalism and care, ensuring that civilian operations were not hampered by the fleet's movements. To prevent disputes or misunderstandings, the fleet altered their route or coordinated with civilian vessels when they approached them.
Furthermore, the fleet was careful to avoid interfering with civilian marine traffic. To ensure operational integrity and compliance with international maritime rules, the fleet may interact with civilian vessels as needed. These contacts were handled with the highest professionalism and care, ensuring that civilian operations were not hampered by the fleet's movements. To prevent disputes or misunderstandings, the fleet altered their route or coordinated with civilian vessels when they approached them. Mechanical crews on each ship contributed significantly to the fleet's operational preparedness. They performed regular and detailed maintenance inspections, as well as technical appraisals, to ensure that all boats were in optimal working order. Their responsibilities included engine checks and hull inspections, as well as electronic system evaluations, to ensure that all aspects of the fleet's operating capabilities were up to par. Furthermore, the fleet has extensive contingency procedures in place to deal with probable emergencies or unexpected scenarios. One such strategy included a thorough process for responding quickly if a marine distress call was received nearby. This protocol detailed procedures for timely deployment of search and rescue teams, cooperation with nearby vessels, and prompt communication with local maritime authorities. Another contingency plan was devised for mechanical breakdowns or technical difficulties on any vessel, which included procedures for on-the-spot repairs, seeking assistance from escorting ships, and rerouting to the nearest port as needed. These plans were reviewed and revised on a frequent basis to reflect the changing conditions of the route and the many maritime zones they traveled through.
Throughout the voyage, the fleet prioritized battle preparation, launching a series of intense tactical training exercises and simulations. These exercises were methodically planned to cover a wide range of situations, including fake drills for anti-piracy operations, anti-submarine warfare, and modern missile defence techniques. The regularity of these training sessions assured that the soldiers were not only intellectually prepared, but also practically competent in dealing with real-world combat circumstances. These drills frequently featured cross-departmental collaboration, simulating complicated combat scenarios that need clear communication and quick decisions. In today's naval scene, cybersecurity is just as important as physical defense. Recognizing this, the fleet deployed advanced cybersecurity systems on all vessels. A specialized team of cybersecurity professionals was in charge of maintaining network integrity, performing regular system audits, and guaranteeing a strong defense against any cyber attacks. This team worked relentlessly to protect critical data and communication lines, playing an important role in ensuring operational security. Medical preparation was another key component of the fleet's plan. Each ship has a well-staffed and well-equipped infirmary capable of dealing with a variety of medical situations. Onboard medical crews, including qualified practitioners, received training in rapid medical response techniques. These guidelines were frequently reviewed and revised to provide the greatest degree of preparedness for any medical emergency. Furthermore, the fleet included specialist crews trained in damage management and emergency response. These teams were prepared to respond quickly to any onboard mishaps or hostile activities, with the appropriate tools and experience to minimize damage and protect the crew and vessel's safety. Regular drills were undertaken to maintain these teams sharp and prepared for fast deployment in the event of an emergency.
Throughout their voyage, the NEG1 was fully prepared to deploy its sophisticated decoy systems at a moment's notice, if necessary. The Naresuan-class Frigates in the fleet were specifically designed for this mission, with decoy launchers strategically (and evenly distributed) positioned on both the port and starboard sides of each ship. These systems included 24 Terma Mk.137 and 24 Terma DL-12T decoy launchers, which provided broad coverage and rapid response capability. The types and quantities of ammunition placed into these systems were carefully selected to meet the mission's precise operating requirements. The 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. This broad array of decoys guaranteed that the frigates were prepared to face a wide range of threats, including radar-guided and infrared-guided missiles. The motivation for carrying such a diverse array of decoy systems aboard the Naresuan-class Frigates stemmed from their design philosophy. These frigates were designed to be cost-effective yet potent multi-role combat platforms. Their versatility in both defensive and offensive capacities made them an essential component of NEG1's strategic composition. Furthermore, frequent drills and training exercises were held during the cruise to ensure that the frigate crews were skilled in the deployment of these decoy systems. This training concentrated on rapid response scenarios, precise threat assessment, and effective deployment techniques, ensuring that the fleet was always prepared to defend itself against any type of aerial, missile, or torpedo attack.
A similarly robust and carefully planned decoy system was installed for self-defense on the Chakri Narubet-class light aircraft carrier. The carrier was outfitted with four Mark 36 SRBOC (Super Rapid Bloom Offboard Countermeasures) Mod 11 systems, totalling 24 launchers. These were deliberately positioned (and evenly dispersed) on both the port and starboard sides to provide maximum coverage and rapid deployment capabilities. In addition to the launchers, the carrier contained a large cache of 140 service rounds that were precisely arranged and ready to load. These were safely held in four customized lockers, allowing for fast access and reloading under high-threat circumstances. The ammo preloaded inside the launchers included 9 Mk214 Seduction Chaff rounds, 9 Mk216 Distraction Chaff rounds, and 6 Mk245 "GIANT" IR rounds. The lockers also included extra rounds for replenishment, including 52 Mk214 Seduction Chaff rounds, 52 Mk216 Distraction Chaff rounds, and 36 Mk245 "GIANT" IR rounds. This huge stockpile assured that the Chakri Narubet-class carrier could sustain long-term engagements while maintaining a defensive posture in a variety of threat situations. The carrier's crew was well-trained in the use of these decoy devices, and frequent exercises were held to maintain preparedness and efficiency. These drills covered rapid deployment, inventory management, and simulated threat response scenarios.
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. 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, 8 cell Mk.41 VLS for 32 x RIM-162 ESSM, 8 × RGM-84 Harpoon SSM launcher for 8 × Harpoon Block II, 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.
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 helicopters with another 10 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. The Kamov Ka-50 helicopters would have the following 24 sorties for the full armament of each option: Rockets: 80 × 80 mm S-8 rockets and 20 × 122 mm S-13 rocket, Missiles: 2 × APU-6 Missile racks, able to accommodate a total of 12 × 9K121 Vikhr anti-tank missiles, Bombs: 4 × 250 kg (550 lb) bombs or 2 × 500 kg (1,100 lb) bombs, and Other: 23 mm UPK-23-250 gun pods (240 rounds each), 500 L (130 US gal) external fuel tanks. Reportedly, twin Igla light air-to-air missile launchers under each wingtip countermeasure pod (total 4 missiles). "Iz 305" LMUR AGM/ATGM. Each of them would also carry two pods on the wingtips with flare and chaff countermeasure dispensers, 4 UV-26 dispensers each (total 32 chaff/flare cartridges in each pod).
