Enhanced Alpha Jet air squadron of the Royal Thai Air Force now prepared for safeguarding Thai skies.
Royal Thai Air Force Upgrades Alpha Jet Squadrons for Enhanced Combat Capabilities
The Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) has announced the modernization of its Alpha Jet squadrons, aiming to align the aircraft with modern combat requirements and extend their service life. The upgraded fleet, now part of the 231st Attack Squadron "Hunters" at Wing 23 in Udon Thani, is ready to respond to security challenges and defend Thai sovereignty and national interests.
Originally acquired in the late 1990s as 25 ex-German Alpha Jet A (light attack variant) aircraft, the modernized Alpha Jets are now equipped with new avionics, a modern mission computer, advanced air-to-air missiles like the AIM-9 Sidewinder, and a secure data link system for real-time information sharing with other RTAF assets.
The key capabilities of the upgraded Alpha Jet include precision tactical air operations both during day and night, advanced avionics and weapons technologies, networked operations with other RTAF aircraft through a new data link, enhancing coordinated strike and defense capabilities, and improved readiness for responding to intrusions and safeguarding national interests.
The upgrades have significantly improved the Alpha Jets’ role from a light attack plane to a vital component within Thailand’s contemporary aerial combat and national defense strategy. The modernized Alpha Jet squadron, known as the "Hunter" or B.J.7/Attack Plane Type 7, is prepared to defend Thai sovereignty and respond to security threats with enhanced combat effectiveness.
Moreover, the data link integration allows Alpha Jets to operate seamlessly alongside the JAS-39 Gripen and the upgraded F-5TH Super Tigris, enhancing the RTAF’s overall combat effectiveness. The RTAF emphasized that the upgraded squadron is prepared to protect the population from potential intrusions.
The Alpha Jet modernization programme, known as the Alpha Jet TH, was announced on the RTAF’s official Facebook page on Tuesday. The upgraded squadron is capable of operating effectively both day and night and has enhanced precision strike capabilities. The modernized Alpha Jet fleet, based at Wing 23 in Udon Thani, is ready to respond to security challenges and defend Thai sovereignty and national interests.
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