Thai Dornier 228s undergo upgrade
RUAG MRO International is modernising Dornier 228 aircraft operated by the Royal Thai Navy (RTN) for EEZ patrols, maritime ISR and SAR operations.
The upgrade includes the installation of glass cockpits, a remodelled interior and new mission equipment as well as upgraded avionics, RUAG MRO noted in a 5 February statement.
New equipment includes installation of a 360° search radar and IR cameras as well as a mission management and data link system.
RUAG MRO is initially working on two of the seven RTN Dornier 228s. The first aircraft has already been disassembled in situ before being transported to Germany by An-124 for the overhaul.
The company will also provide training in Germany and Thailand for RTN personnel.
According to Shephard Defence Insight, the Dornier 228 can be used for special mission operations taking place between low altitudes and 10,000ft, with a 223kt cruising speed and up to 10h mission endurance.
As part of our promise to deliver comprehensive coverage to our Defence Insight and Premium News subscribers, our curated defence news content provides the latest industry updates, contract awards and programme milestones.
Related Equipment in Defence Insight
More from Air Warfare
-
Panama approves $187 million purchase of Airbus and Embraer aircraft
The C295 and Super Tucano deals for its National Aeronaval Service were approved as part of an emergency procedure by the government on 11 March.
-
US Navy tests new comms pod for Marine Corps’ MQ-9A Reaper
The pod, named SkyTower II (STII) was tested ahead of the system’s initial operational capability (IOC) in 2026.
-
US Navy Next-Generation Jammer approaches full-rate production
Raytheon is currently finalising the production of NGJ-MB lot 5 while working with the US Navy on contract requirements over multiple years.
-
Australian Army aviation veers heavily towards the US
Sikorsky’s UH-60M Black Hawk and Boeing’s AH-46 Apache will soon form the bedrock of the Australian Army’s rotorcraft capabilities, as the army awaits further delivery of both types.