Thailand receives first batch of refurbished M1126 Stryker 8x8 armored vehicles

2 of the 4 Stryker ICVs delivered by the US to Bangkok. Photo c/o US Embassy in Bangkok.

The Royal Thai Army (RTA) received its first batch of 4 refurbished M1126 Stryker 8x8 armored infantry carrier vehicles from the US on 30 August 2019, as part of a deal signed this year.

Two C-17A Globemaster strategic airlifters of the US Air Force brought in the vehicles and were received in Bangkok by the RTA Chief Gen. Apirat Kongsongpong together with US Indo-Pacific Command commander Adm. Phil Davidson.

A formal ceremony would be held on 12 September 2019 at the RTA headquarters for the first 10 vehicles.

The US will deliver a total of 70 vehicles this year, increased from just 60 vehicles as planned. Another 50 units will be delivered next year. Each are said to cost THB80 million each. 23 vehicles out of the 70 for delivery this year were granted by the US government.

The RTA plans to deploy them at its infantry battalions in Chachoengsao province, east of Bangkok.

[1] US Embassy In Bangkok

[2] Asia Pacific Defense Journal

[3] Chiang Rai Times