Thai Navy Retires Harrier Jump-Jets
By CHRISTOPHER P. CAVAS

November 2, 2006 Royal Thai Navy is reported to be considering withdrawal AV-8S Harrier squadron. The navy plans to close down 301 Naval Air Squadron as a AV-8S Harrier unit on the end of this year. Thailand currently operates 9 ex-Spanish Navy AV-8S Harriers and its harrier jump-jets are almost all non-operational because of a shortage of spare parts. These are scheduled to receive a mid-life update, however the navy has big ambitions but there are difficulties to overcome. One is the limited time at sea given to its personnel and equipment. A combination of low budget priorities, lack of spare parts and maintenance funding, and the country's past economic difficulties all detract from readiness.

Stories written by DefenseNews.com staff