Royal Thai Navy Unveils AWAV 8x8 Vehicles

The Royal Thai Navy has announced plans to procure additional Thai-made AWAV 8x8 amphibious wheeled armoured vehicles to strengthen operational capability, particularly along Thailand’s eastern border. The move is intended to enhance border security, maritime sovereignty protection and emergency response capacity. The Navy said the vehicles will also support missions addressing new forms of security threats.

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Rear Admiral Paratch Rattanachaiphan, spokesperson for the Royal Thai Navy, said on April 27, 2026, at Navy headquarters that the procurement forms part of ongoing efforts to improve readiness in line with current security challenges. He added that the AWAV 8x8 would play a key role in amphibious operations and public assistance during emergencies. The Navy emphasised the importance of maintaining sufficient deployment capacity for future operational plans.

The AWAV 8x8 has been designed by Thai engineers and produced domestically by Chaiseri Metal and Rubber Co Ltd, using Thai labour, tools and machinery. At least 40% of the production value comes from domestic materials, supporting the local industrial supply chain and reducing reliance on imports. The Navy said this reflects the growing capability of Thailand’s defence industry.

The vehicle features an 8x8 drive system designed for mobility across varied terrain and can operate alongside the Navy’s landing platform dock vessels. It meets STANAG ( NATO Standardisation Agreement) standards for protection against bullets and explosive force and is equipped with a machine gun, control system and integrated communications linked to the Navy’s network. It has also passed MIL-STD (U.S. military standard) environmental durability standards, confirming its suitability for operations at sea and on land.

The Nation reported that the Navy has already procured seven AWAV vehicles and said they have performed effectively in operational use, maintaining high combat readiness and meeting unit requirements. Based on this performance, additional procurement has been deemed necessary to expand deployment capacity.

The Navy said the latest procurement supports both military capability upgrades and national defence industry development. It aims to strengthen long-term self-reliance and contribute to national security in both military and economic terms.

Pictures courtesy of The Nation

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Adapted by ASEAN Now Nation 28 Apr 2026