In a significant step towards strengthening its presence in Southeast Asia, the Spanish company Navantia signed a contract on April 10 to modernize the Royal Thai Navy’s amphibious assault ship HTMS Chang (792). This vessel, a Type 071E class ship, was built by China’s Hudong-Zhonghua shipyard and delivered in April 2023 as part of an agreement reached between the two countries in 2019.
With a displacement of 20,000 tons, the HTMS Chang is a strategic asset for Thailand’s maritime power projection capabilities. Its design allows it to transport between 600 and 800 marines, more than 20 armored vehicles, and operate up to four LCAC-type landing craft. It also features a well deck capable of accommodating two LCM landing craft.
Currently, the ship is equipped with an H/PJ-26 76 mm naval gun, four H/PJ-17 30 mm close-in defense guns, and SR-64 radars for air and surface surveillance. Since joining the Thai fleet, the vessel has taken part in multinational exercises such as Cobra Gold 2024 alongside U.S. and allied forces, as well as in patrol missions in the Andaman Sea and humanitarian operations, notably delivering aid to Myanmar following Cyclone Mocha in 2023.
Thailand’s decision to integrate Western systems into a Chinese-built vessel reflects a strategy of technological diversification. By opting for Navantia’s solutions, the Royal Thai Navy aims to enhance the capabilities of its LPD-type vessel, particularly through the integration of CATIZ and DORNA combat management systems—significantly boosting its combat readiness, reducing reliance on Chinese technology, and increasing interoperability with allied forces.
The modernization of the HTMS Chang thus represents an important milestone, demonstrating how the Thai Navy is carefully balancing its strategic partnerships while upgrading its fleet with cutting-edge technology. It also strengthens ties with Navantia, continuing a collaboration that includes previous projects such as the modernization of the HTMS Chang frigate (former Knox class).
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