Thai navy receives back its first modernised Do 228
The first upgraded Do 228 maritime patrol aircraft returned to the Royal Thai Navy in mid-February. (RTN)
Thailand is currently upgrading four Do 228 maritime patrol aircraft, and the first has just returned home.
The first upgraded Dornier 228 of the Royal Thai Navy (RTN), aircraft number ‘1114’, arrived in Thailand on 15 February, and others will follow later.
Under Maritime Security Initiative funding of $40.2 million, the US government contracted RUAG Aerospace Services to keep Thai Do 228s operational for the next 15-20 years.
The upgrade programme began in 2020, with two aircraft in the first phase and another pair in the second phase. The remaining three aircraft in the fleet are expected to receive assistance from the US in the future.
The most important element is the installation of the Telephonics RDR-1550B
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Air Warfare
-
![With a wave of upgrades, the MQ-9B is ready for high-tech warfare]()
With a wave of upgrades, the MQ-9B is ready for high-tech warfare
The modern battlefield is evolving rapidly — threats range from stealthy cruise missiles to coordinated drone swarms. General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, Inc. (GA-ASI) is meeting these challenges head-on with a series of transformative upgrades to its MQ-9B SkyGuardian® and maritime SeaGuardian® remotely piloted aircraft.
-
![June drone digest: Landmark CCA contract and deep-strike capability flourishes at Eurosatory]()
June drone digest: Landmark CCA contract and deep-strike capability flourishes at Eurosatory
June 2026 saw the landmark acquisition of the first fighter-type Collaborative Combat Aircraft (CCA), while the month also hosted Eurosatory, which showcased deep-strike capabilities and production deals with the civilian industry.
-
![BAE Systems' UK Combat Air Demonstrator closes in on final assembly]()
BAE Systems' UK Combat Air Demonstrator closes in on final assembly
The first render for the demonstrator was unveiled in July 2025, with BAE Systems now aiming for the start of final assembly by the end of 2026 to prepare the aircraft for first flight by 2027.
