Thailand | Operation Seafaring I

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Title: Operation Seafaring I
Document Number: RTAF-SEAFR-001/2003
Classification: TOP SECRET
Security Level: Maximum Secure
Date: May 4, 2003

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XI. IntroductionX

Background

After the establishment of the Naval Expeditionary Group Two (NEG2) and the Naval Expeditionary Group Three (NEG3), the Republic Thai Navy requested that NEG2 and NEG3 should receive a ceremony deployment for their inception. NEG2 in Songkhla Naval Base and NEG3 in PhangNga Naval Base would receive a ceremonial switch of their naval base for one week.

Objective

The objective of Seafaring I is to facilitate a ceremonial deployment for the newly established NEG2 and BEG3. They would swap their base for one week by sailing through the Malacca Strait before returning.

XII. Command and ControlX

2.1 Guidance

This operation is conducted under the guidance of the Defense Minister, Gen. Chavalit Yongchaiyudh, and approval from Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra.

XIII. Operational ForcesX

The Thai Navy First Fleet

• Naval Expeditionary Group Three (NEG3)
  • [1] Chakri Narubet-class light aircraft carrier
    • 601 Crews
      • HTMS Ban Phlu Luang Narubet
    • [8] Kamov Ka-50
  • [9] Naresuan-class Frigate
    • 1350 Crews
      • HTMS Prasat Thong
      • HTMS Chao Fa Chai
      • HTMS Si Suthammaracha
      • HTMS Narai
      • HTMS Phetracha
      • HTMS Suriyenthrathibodi
      • HTMS Thai Sa
      • HTMS Borommakot
      • HTMS Ngua Nam Thum
    • RTNAF Squadron 102
      • 55 Crews
      • [9] Kamov Ka-226
  • [2] Gepard-class Frigate
    • 188 Crews
      • HTMS Kok
      • HTMS Mae Sai

The Thai Navy Second Fleet

• Naval Expeditionary Group Three (NEG3)
  • Chakri Narubet-class light aircraft carrier
    • 601 Crews
      • HTMS Prasat Thong Narubet
    • [8] Kamov Ka-50
  • [8] Naresuan-class Frigate
    • 1300 Crews
      • HTMS Thong Lan
      • HTMS Ramrachathirat
      • HTMS Intharacha
      • HTMS Borommarachathirat II
      • HTMS Borommatrailokkanat
      • HTMS Ratsadathirat
      • HTMS Chairacha
      • HTMS Ram Khamhaeng
    • RTNAF Squadron 201
      • 55 Crews
      • [8] Kamov Ka-226
  • [3] Gepard-class Frigate
    • 282 Crews
      • HTMS Sakae Krang
      • HTMS Chin
      • HTMS Chi

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

Logistic 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 Navy, Coast Guard, and Air Force to ensure maximum coverage and sharing of intelligence.

5.2 International

In case any foreign vessels or units 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

The Defense Ministry has mobilized all necessary resources for the ceremonial deployment of Operation Seafaring I. The Defense Ministry expects that its contribution honor the newly established NEG2 and NEG3.

[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 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 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

 

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Protect by NIA Counter-Intelligence Service

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Operation Seafaring I Ministry of Defence Thailand

Classification: Top Secret​ Encrytped Method: Maximum Secure​ Date: May 4, 2003​ Location: Thailand​ Participant: Thailand​

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The Charki Narubet Class would be equipped with the necessary supplies and resources for 180 days of deployment and each carrier can support up to 16 sorties for each of all armament options of the Kamov Ka-50. The helicopters would have the following 16 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)

The Charki Narubet Class would be equipped with 4 × SRBOC decoy launchers for 32 decoys each and SLQ-32 towed decoy. Their armament would include 2 × 0.5-inch machine guns and 3 × sextuple Sadral launchers for Mistral surface-to-air missiles. Their deck can carry up to 14 Kamov Ka-50 with another 10 in the hangar. They have two transport lifts for these helicopters and another 2 lifts to transport supplies for 16 sorites of all kinds of armament.

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 80 to 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, and 2 × Triple Mark 32 Mod 5 torpedo tubes. Each of them will carry a Kamov Ka-226

The Gepard-class Friagtes would have these armaments: Artilerry: 1x 76.2mm AK-176M/MA naval gun with 420 rounds of 76.2 mm, Cruise missiles: 8x UKSK VLS cells for Kalibr missiles, Anti-submarine warfare: 2x 533mm DTA-53 twin-tube (2×2) torpedo launcher, Anti-air warfare: 1x Palash/Palma-SU CIWS featured with 8x Sosna-R short-range air defense missiles, 1x Osa-M twin-launcher for 20x 9M33M short-range air defense missiles, and 12x Shtil-1 VLS cells for 9M317ME medium-range surface-to-air missiles. They would also be equipped with EW Suite: 2 × Bell Shroud passive intercept, 2 × Bell Squat jammers, and Countermeasures: 4 × 16-barreled Pk-16 decoy launchers.

Both NEG2 and NEG3 would be in the same formation as those of NEG1, just without submarines and Vanguard.

They would travel from their respective bases, which will be either OJ > NJ or NJ > OJ.

The operation would be executed by 4,432 personnel of the Thai Navy, each exhibiting top-tier training, optimal health, and full rest. Their departure from the bases is scheduled for 0400 ICT, moving in a carefully planned formation. They will navigate strictly in international waters, ensuring that all vessels within the formation maintain this boundary to avoid any territorial disputes.

During their travel and deployment, the Naval Expeditionary Groups (NEG2 and NEG3) will engage their Electronic Support Measures (ESM) to passively monitor and analyze electromagnetic emissions in the vicinity, while deliberately avoiding active emissions that could compromise their position. Their Electronic Countermeasures (ECM) will be used conservatively to mask their actual location and simulate deceptive movements. This will be executed in a manner that minimizes emission levels to prevent location disclosure. All systems, including sonar for underwater detection, will be operational within NEG2 and NEG3 units. However, any system capable of active emission will be restricted to use the minimal necessary power to fulfill its function, thus limiting its detectability.

 

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Naval Expeditionary Group Two Rearguard​

The Thai NEG2, having departed from its base in OJ, and NEG3, originating from NJ, converged in a meticulously coordinated maneuver in the Strait of Malacca, near NJ. Their journey has been under constant surveillance, ensuring no unforeseen incidents occur. As they navigate through the Strait, both vessels strictly adhere to the parameters of safe and innocent passage, as outlined by international maritime law, ensuring their transit is within legal boundaries.

Given the imposing stature of both NEGs, their presence in the strait is unmistakable. Their passage, a harmonious blend of might and diplomatic finesse, is communicated in advance to the authorities of Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia, respecting their territorial sensitivities and fostering a sense of mutual understanding.

Each ship proudly hoists the Thai flag, flanked by the flags of Singapore, Malaysia, and Indonesia, symbolizing a gesture of goodwill and international camaraderie. As the crews of NEG2 and NEG3 emerge on deck for a ceremonial salute, they not only acknowledge each other but also extend their respect towards Singapore City and any nearby settlements visible from their vantage point, with a dignified salute. This gesture underlines the respect for the communities along their route.

The passage through the Malacca Strait is executed with a focus on continuity and expeditiousness, honoring the principles of maritime law and international relations. Upon completing this symbolic gesture, the crew members of both NEGs promptly resume their operational responsibilities, maintaining a vigilant stance as they proceed through one of the world's most strategic maritime corridors.​

 

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Naval Expeditionary Group Three Flank and Inner Screen​

The Thai NEG2, after a meticulously planned voyage, has now docked at the PhangNga Naval Base in NJ. During the journey, vigilant security protocols were maintained, and the crew underwent rigorous physical and mental conditioning, ensuring their readiness for any situation. NEG3 has similarly reached the Songkhla Naval Base in OJ, with both teams and vessels in prime condition, having encountered no unforeseen incidents en route.

Throughout their stay, the operational systems aboard the NEG vessels will remain fully active, maintaining the same high level of functionality as during their voyage. This includes continuous monitoring of communication channels and defense systems, ensuring they are ready for immediate deployment if necessary. The sailors, well-rested and acclimatized, will engage in reconnaissance activities within the naval bases. This involves mapping critical infrastructure and establishing rapport with local personnel, thus laying the groundwork for future joint operations and enhancing the synergy between the visiting and host units.

After two days of meticulous preparation, all personnel and vessels are in optimal condition. They seamlessly board their ships, embarking on their journey to the South China Sea from location OK. NEG2 follows a meticulously charted route from NJ to OJ, then to OK, navigating through the critical junction of the Malacca Strait. NEG3 takes a more direct path from OJ to OK. Throughout their voyage, the crews of both NEG2 and NEG3 exemplify heightened vigilance, a continuation of the exemplary caution they displayed in earlier travels.

As NEG2 prepares for another passage through the Malacca Strait, they proactively communicate their intentions to the governments of Singapore, Indonesia, and Malaysia, ensuring diplomatic clarity and regional awareness. Concurrently, their onboard defense systems remain fully operational. This includes heightened readiness among the sailors, who are acutely aware of the strategic importance of their mission.

The Electronic Support Measures (ESM) of both groups are set to a passive yet effective mode, capable of detecting, analyzing, and intercepting electronic emissions within a 100-kilometer radius without actively broadcasting their presence. Simultaneously, their Electronic Countermeasures (ECM) operate in a low-key fashion. Although these systems are inherently active, their usage is carefully modulated to minimize electromagnetic footprint, thus significantly reducing the likelihood of detection by external entities. This strategic application of ECM, combined with disciplined operational conduct, ensures that their movements remain as clandestine as possible, a critical factor in the success of their mission.​

 

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Thai Naval Expeditionary Groups passing through Taiwan Strait​

The Thai NEG2 and NEG3, having recently completed a comprehensive refueling and resupply operation, are now strategically positioned in the central region of the South China Sea, specifically within the vicinity of the Spratly Islands. Despite their previous rigorous deployment, they maintain an unwaveringly vigilant stance, akin to their peak operational readiness. These groups conscientiously navigate within the bounds of international waters, meticulously avoiding any encroachment upon territorial seas. As they traverse through the Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs) of various nations, including Vietnam and the Philippines, they proactively communicate their presence, ensuring diplomatic transparency and respect for international maritime protocols. In alignment with Thailand's stance on maritime claims, they do not acknowledge the People's Republic of China's expansive assertions in the region and thus refrain from notifying Chinese authorities. However, should their course bring them into the EEZ of areas undisputedly recognized as Chinese waters under international law, they will duly inform the relevant Chinese channels as a gesture of adherence to the law of the sea.

Positioned in OK, the fleet raised the Thai flag, alongside the flags of other Southeast Asian nations with stakes in the South China Sea, symbolizing respect for regional sovereignty. Once the diplomatic gesture was complete, the fleet returned to its peak operational readiness. Charting a course through the Taiwan Strait, the ships navigated from OL towards PL. During this passage, NEG2 and NEG3 prominently displayed Taiwanese and Chinese flags in addition to their own, signifying a stance of neutrality and respect for both nations. Throughout their journey, they meticulously sailed in international waters, ensuring they remained at a carefully calculated distance from the territorial waters of both China and Taiwan, avoiding any infringement or provocations.​

 

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The Thai Sailors bidding farewell to their comrades​

The Thai NEG2 and NEG, navigating expertly through the Taiwan Strait, have now reached the predetermined coordination point PL without any unforeseen incidents. The journey was marked by careful maneuvering and strategic use of international waterways, ensuring a safe, unprovoked passage. Each crew member and sailor aboard these vessels is at the pinnacle of their mental and physical condition, embodying the epitome of alertness and readiness. Their rigorous training and unwavering discipline are evident in their preparedness for any eventuality. Furthermore, every ship in both NEGs is in prime operational condition. Their systems and facilities have been meticulously maintained and are functioning at peak efficiency, signifying their readiness to engage in and adapt to any circumstance with the same alacrity and competence as their crew.

NEG2 and NEG3, having ceremoniously navigated both the Malacca Strait and Taiwan Strait, are now set to depart from PL towards OK, traversing the South China Sea. Throughout this voyage, the crew and systems on board will remain in a state of heightened readiness. They will meticulously maintain a safe distance from the territorial waters of any nation within the South China Sea. In the event of traversing any Exclusive Economic Zones (EEZs), except China's, they will proactively communicate their passage and seek authorization, reaffirming their commitment to the principle of freedom of navigation. As NEG2 and NEG3 diverge, a symbolic farewell is exchanged between the crews, with NEG2 signaling their parting to both the accompanying vessel and their home base in Songkhla via OJ. Concurrently, NEG3 proceeds towards OJ, navigating once more through the Malacca Strait, en route to their home base in Phang Nga, NJ. During their passage, they will replicate the procedural rigor and approaches as previously executed.

As Operation Seafaring I drew to a close, the sailors, who had embarked on a ceremonial journey promised by the Navy to show them the world, were returning home. After navigating over 24,000 kilometers, each member, stepping off the imposing warships, was embraced by the warmth of family, friends, and loved ones. Tears of joy and relief marked their reunion, a poignant testament to their reconnection with the ordinary yet cherished fabric of their lives.

The lessons gleaned from traversing the boundless expanses of the Asia-Pacific were inestimable, offering insights only the vast ocean could impart. However, the freedom of serving in the Navy, as invaluable as it was, paled in comparison to the precious, fleeting moments now to be cherished with family and dear ones. This realization underscored the irreplaceable value of time spent with those they hold most dear.​