Navy Chief Inspects Chakri Naruebet as Rescue Efforts Continue

Pictures courtesy of Thaitabloid

The Royal Thai Navy commander has inspected HTMS Chakri Naruebet as rescue operations continue in flood-hit Songkhla. Admiral Phairoj Fuangfungchan visited the aircraft carrier on the 29 November to review ongoing support efforts and give encouragement to personnel carrying out multiple missions. The navy confirmed that specialist teams from the SEALs, Recon units, and EOD divers remain deployed to assist communities affected by the severe flooding.

The deployment began immediately after the floods struck, prompting the navy to send SEAL teams into affected areas for rapid assistance. Additional forces, including Marine Reconnaissance and underwater explosive-ordnance disposal units, were mobilised, forming a combined 15-team response due to their specialist skills and diving capabilities. Admiral Phairoj noted that while these units are trained for wartime operations, their expertise is equally vital for disaster relief.

During his visit, the navy chief also inspected maintenance work on the helicopters used to transport food and emergency supplies from the Royal Kitchen to isolated residents. He walked through operational zones on board HTMS Chakri Naruebet to observe how personnel were managing logistics, repairs and aerial delivery tasks across multiple districts. Navy officials said the aircraft carrier is serving as a central hub for cooking, packing, and dispatching relief items by helicopter.

Admiral Phairoj stated that the situation in Songkhla has now moved beyond the critical phase, allowing authorities to shift their focus toward recovery and restoration. He emphasised that while the Interior Ministry holds primary responsibility for post-flood reconstruction, the navy stands ready to assist immediately if requested. He added that the navy remains a key state mechanism for rapid humanitarian response and will continue supporting civilians as needed.

Thaitabloid reported that the Royal Kitchen teams aboard the carrier are scheduled to continue preparing meals and relief packages for aerial distribution over the next 10 days, though the duration may be adjusted depending on local conditions. Officials said ongoing air operations will remain important until communities regain access to basic services. The navy has maintained that all assistance efforts will proceed in coordination with relevant agencies.

Key Takeaways

• Specialist SEAL, Recon, and EOD units have formed a 15-team navy response in flood-affected Songkhla.

• HTMS Chakri Naruebet is functioning as a relief hub, delivering meals and essential supplies by helicopter.

• The navy says it will continue supporting recovery efforts as authorities move into the restoration phase.

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 Adapted by Asean Now from Thaitabloid 2025-11-30