Thai Navy takes delivery of new hydrographic vessel

March 31, 2026, by Fatima Bahtić

The Royal Thai Navy has taken delivery of its new hydrographic operations vessel, HTMS Suriya, during a handover ceremony held on March 30, 2026.

Proceedings included the official handover report delivered by the shipbuilder’s chief executive, followed by the symbolic acceptance of the vessel by the navy chief. The ceremony marked the formal transfer of the vessel from Asian Marine Services, which built the unit.

View on Twitter.

Following the formalities, the vessel was handed over to Vice Admiral Yodrak Silpaduriang, Director-General of the Hydrographic Department, who will oversee its operational deployment. Command of HTMS Suriya has been assigned to Lieutenant Commander Weerasrut Thanomwong.

Measuring 60 meters in length with a beam of 13.3 meters and a draft of 3.05 meters, HTMS Suriya has a displacement of 1,545 tonnes and accommodates a crew of 50. It can reach a maximum speed of 13.1 knots, with an economical cruising speed of 10 knots, and has an operational range of approximately 2,400 nautical miles. The vessel is designed to operate in sea state 5 conditions.

The newly built vessel replaces an older ship bearing the same name and will play a key role in maintaining maritime safety across Thai waters. Its primary missions include the inspection and upkeep of maritime navigation aids such as lighthouses, beacons, and buoys positioned along coastlines, around islands, and in hazardous areas. The vessel will also support maritime search and rescue operations.

The construction contract was signed in September 2023 as part of Thailand’s efforts to strengthen its domestic shipbuilding capabilities. Building the vessel locally is expected to enhance industrial capacity while offering a more cost-effective alternative to foreign procurement, the officials highlighted.

Following delivery, HTMS Suriya will be assigned to the Maritime Marker Task Force under the Hydrographic Division of the Royal Thai Navy’s Hydrographic Department, where it will contribute to ensuring safe navigation and supporting the country’s maritime economy.