General Atomics AeroTec Systems (GA-ATS) has delivered the third modernised aircraft to the Royal Thai Navy (RTN) in U-Tapao, Thailand. The first two aircraft were successfully handed over in 2023.
The RTN fleet of seven Do228 aircraft is currently being upgraded as part of a comprehensive modernisation program. The project is being carried out in cooperation with the US Department of Defense and its DoD Grant Assistance Program of the Indo-Pacific Maritime Security Initiative. The aim is to adapt the mission-proven Do228 to the requirements of modern missions.
During the modernisation, the aircraft was completely refurbished and underwent an intensive structural inspection. In addition to necessary repairs, central structural elements were also completely renewed. A key aspect of the upgrade is the “New Generation” glass cockpit, which replaces the previous analog instruments and offers pilots a state-of-the-art digital user interface. It has been a system that has proven its reliability and will be continued in the Do228 NXT production.
After the first two aircraft were handed over in 2023, the third aircraft had now also successfully undergone the extensive overhaul and had been handed over to the RTN a few months ago. This continues the modernisation project of RTN’s Do228 fleet, and the next aircraft is already at GA-ATS for maintenance work.
The Royal Thai Navy has been successfully using the Do228 for coastal surveillance missions for many years. As part of the modernisation program, the fleet is being equipped with state-of-the-art mission equipment. The new systems and technology include an all-round radar installed under the fuselage, an electro-optical camera with infrared function, a data link system and an automatic identification system for ship identification.
The cabin had also been redesigned and equipped with an ergonomic mission management console that enables efficient planning of missions, operation of special equipment and analysis and evaluation of data. These improvements significantly increase the Royal Thai Navy’s effectiveness in securing borders and monitoring its territorial waters. In addition, specially designed seats for operators and observers provide optimal support in various operational scenarios.
Another advantage of the Do228 is its exceptional flexibility. The cabin interior can be quickly removed, allowing the aircraft to be easily converted for alternative tasks such as cargo transportation or medical evacuation missions.
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