Thales and UCS to Modernize Royal Thai Navy's Flagship Aircraft Carrier HTMS Chakri Naruebet

Thales and Thai partner Universal Communication Systems Co. Ltd. (UCS) have signed an agreement to equip the Royal Thai Navy's flagship, the HTMS Chakri Naruebet, with a state-of-the-art Integrated Platform Management System (IPMS).

The upgrade, announced at the Defense & Security 2025 exhibition, will modernize the core operational systems of Southeast Asia's first and only aircraft carrier, enhancing its capabilities for contemporary maritime threats.

The 28-year-old vessel, a symbol of Thai naval power, is set for a significant technological leap. In an era where maritime threats are increasingly diverse and dynamic, naval platforms must adapt quickly.

The new IPMS will serve as the ship's central nervous system, reported Naval News, automating critical processes to provide crew members with superior decision support and increasing the ship's overall operational effectiveness.

This system integrates the vessel's mechanical, electrical, and damage control systems into a single, user-friendly interface. With real-time monitoring and control, the IPMS will allow for quicker adjustments and safer platform operation. The solution from Thales is modular and scalable, a crucial feature given the unique requirements and substantial size of the HTMS Chakri Naruebet.

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The project deepens a partnership spanning more than 55 years between Thales and the Royal Thai Navy. An impressive over 80% of the Thai Royal Navy's current fleet is already equipped with Thales technology, including radars, sonars, and command systems. This contract, however, marks the first IPMS solution for the RTN, signaling a new chapter in this long-standing collaboration.

An international team of experts from Thales will provide the core hardware and software, while UCS brings its indispensable, on-the-ground knowledge of the end-user's needs. This partnership is committed to building local expertise. As part of the agreement, UCS, as a designated Key Industrial Partner (KIP), will receive a comprehensive technology transfer.

This initiative is a significant boost for Thailand's domestic defence capabilities. "This will enable UCS to perform effective in-country maintenance and through-life support for the system following its delivery to the Royal Thai Navy," stated Supich ANSVANANDA, Managing Director of UCS. He emphasized that the project strengthens "Thailand’s defence industrial base" and enhances the navy's "long-term self-reliance."

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Modernizing a national flagship is a complex undertaking. "We are grateful for the trust in Thales to bring this long-awaited project forward," said Nicolas BERNARDIN, Country Director for Thales in Thailand. He confirmed that the IPMS will "enhance the operational capability of this significant platform," contributing directly to Thailand's maritime sovereignty by ensuring its most iconic naval asset is prepared for the challenges of modern warfare.