Thailand eyes acquisition of 12 new 105mm towed howitzers

L119 105mm towed howitzers of the Royal Thai Army. Photo c/o AAG_Th Thai Defense page.

The Royal Thai Army (RTA) was reported to have published a new document stating its plan to procure twelve (12) new 105mm towed howitzers.

The model was not mentioned but it was said to be sourced from United Defense Technology Co. Ltd., and has a budget of THB834.4 million (US$26.7 million) spread across Fiscal Years 2020 to 2022.

The towed howitzers are to include two (2) fire control systems, tools and other supporting equipment. It is expected to equip 2 batteries, each with its own fire control system.

The new artillery pieces are expected to complement other artillery systems in the RTA, and probably replace older models including the US-made M101 105mm towed howitzer.

The RTA previously acquired the BAE Systems L119 105 towed howitzer, and was granted rights to assemble the system in Thailand through the Defence and Military Energy Industry Center in 2006.

The RTA also has other 105mm towed howitzer models in its arsenal, including the GIAT Industries LG1 which were former assets of the Singapore Army (SA), and OTO Melara Mod. 56 105mm pack howitzers. The RTA also upgrade most of its M101 towed howitzers using barrels used in the GIAT LG1.


[1] AAG_TH Thai Defense Page