Thailand's Air Force enters service with new AT-6TH Wolverines!

Thailand's Air Force enters service with new AT-6TH Wolverines!

The Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) has made an impressive statement with the official commissioning of eight Beechcraft AT-6TH Wolverines on September 4, 2025. These light attack and reconnaissance aircraft, ordered for $143 million, represent a significant step in the modernization of the air force. Thailand is the first international customer of the type, which means good business not only for the air force, but also for the development of its own defense sector. The Asian Military Review reports that the AT-6TH are stationed in Chiang Mai and the older Aero Vodochody L-39ZA/ART there Replacing Albatros aircraft that were decommissioned in 2021.

With the first deliveries in July 2024, the RTAF has already received the first two aircraft, which are now being used to provide optimal support for border patrols and reconnaissance. Then-RTAF commander Air Chief Marshal Punpakdee Pattanakul noted that the new aircraft had already been involved in conflicts on the Thai-Cambodia border. This information was corroborated by the Global Defense Corp, where the attack aircraft are part of a long-term strategy to improve the national security situation.

An all-rounder in the air

The AT-6TH shines not only with its modern technology. They are equipped with a variety of weapon systems, including FN HMP-400 machine gun pods and AGM-114 Hellfire missiles, making them the perfect companion for close air support missions. In addition to combat missions, the machines are also designed for humanitarian missions, such as support in disaster relief and forest fire fighting. This was confirmed in writing by the RTAF, which highlighted the ability to respond quickly to incidents at the border.

It is worth noting that part of the procurement plan also includes training and education, with eight pilots already trained in the US - including flight instructors and test pilots. The first two aircraft have successfully completed their flight lessons in Chiang Mai, which is confirmed by the Flight Global.

Additional air support in sight

There are also plans to further modernize the RTAF: A contract for the acquisition of four Gripen E/F fighter aircraft from Sweden was signed on August 25, 2025. This is part of a phased procurement of a total of twelve new fighter aircraft to support the existing fleet of eleven older Gripen C/D jets. The combination of AT-6TH and the new Gripen jets will wonderfully increase the flexibility and effectiveness of the Thai Air Force.

With these incremental improvements, Thailand is well on its way to significantly increasing its operational capability in both military and humanitarian operations - for a safe and stable country in the region!