The Royal Thai Navy has ordered two Airbus C295 aircraft in an advanced transport configuration, expanding Thailand’s fleet of the twin-turboprop tactical transport. The order was announced on 27 May 2026 and is distinct from a separate C295 acquisition by the Royal Thai Air Force unveiled earlier in May.
The new aircraft are scheduled for delivery from late 2028. They will be produced by Airbus Defence and Space in Seville and configured primarily for military transport tasks, with capabilities that can support missions such as search and rescue and surveillance, depending on the final fit.
The Royal Thai Air Force previously announced the purchase of two C295 in a tactical transport configuration on 22 May 2026, underscoring a wider modernization effort across Thailand’s armed forces transport fleet. With the navy order, Thailand continues to standardize on the C295 platform for medium airlift requirements.
Specialized defense and aviation outlets describe the navy’s C295s as advanced or enhanced transport aircraft, with some reports indicating a surveillance-oriented role. The aircraft are expected to provide improved ability to move personnel and equipment and to support maritime and overland monitoring, including the detection, classification and identification of targets at sea or on land.