# Thai Army Secures Armored Vehicles Deal Worth 1 Billion Baht with China

- Link: https://www.thailand-business-news.com/china/279870-thai-army-secures-armored-vehicles-deal-worth-1-billion-baht-with-china
- Published: 2026-01-17T14:43:16+07:00
- Author: Chloe Zhou

**The Royal Thai Army has contracted for additional VN1 8×8 wheeled armoured vehicles
from China, part of its FY2025 modernization program. The agreement enhances Thailand’s
defense capabilities and cooperation with China.**

---

## Key Points

 * The Royal Thai Army has signed a contract for additional VN1 8×8 wheeled armoured
   vehicles from NORINCO, enhancing its modernisation efforts. The agreement was
   finalized during a delegation visit in Beijing on January 11.
 * Key details include:
    - Contract value: Approximately 987 million to 1 billion baht.
    - Total VN1-family vehicles received to date: 111.
    - Variants in service: Armoured personnel carrier, self-propelled mortar, command
      vehicle, and ambulance.
 * Future outlook includes:
    - Proposed fourth acquisition phase in early 2024 with new mission variants.
    - Potential introduction of the ST1 105 mm wheeled tank destroyer.
    - Aims to replace aging V-150 vehicles and strengthen border security.

### **Procurement of VN1 8×8 Armoured Vehicles by the Royal Thai Army**

The Royal Thai Army (RTA) has firmly committed to enhancing its **wheeled armoured
fleet** with the signing of a follow-on contract for additional VN1 8×8 vehicles,
utilizing approximately **987 million to 1 billion baht** from its Fiscal Year 2025
defense budget. This agreement, formalized at the China North Industries Group Corporation(
NORINCO) headquarters in Beijing on January 11, stemmed from discussions between**
Lt Gen Natthaporn Khwan-yam** and NORINCO Vice President, **Liu Jinkui**. This strategic
acquisition forms part of the RTA’s long-term modernization efforts aimed at **strengthening
its defense capabilities**.

ADVERTISEMENT

### **Capabilities and Variants of VN1 Family**

The VN1 8×8 wheeled armored vehicle platform, developed by NORINCO, showcases a **
modular architecture**, allowing adaptations for various roles including troop transport,
fire support, and medical services. The RTA currently operates multiple variants
from this vehicle family, including **armoured personnel carriers** and self-propelled
mortars. With previously delivered units totaling **111**, the new procurement represents
a commitment to continue refreshing its operational capabilities and includes the**
potential introduction** of newer mission variants. Future plans may encompass replacing
outdated vehicles like the V-150 4×4 armored transport, ensuring that the RTA remains
technologically competitive.

### **Strategic and Future Outlook**

This latest procurement not only aids in operational modernization but also enhances**
border security** and reflects a diversification of Thailand’s defense procurement
strategies. The growing partnership with China indicates deepening cooperation across
land, naval, and aerospace sectors. Looking ahead, a **fourth acquisition phase**
is slated for submission in early 2024, which may introduce new variants, including
potentially the **ST1 105 mm wheeled tank destroyer** based on the VN1 chassis. 
This strategic initiative signals the **RTA’s proactive approach** in adapting to
contemporary military challenges while reinforcing its operational readiness.

### Related**Posts**

###  󠀁[How China’s Innovation Drives the Transformation of Thailand’s Economy](https://www.thailand-business-news.com/china/325721-how-chinas-innovation-drives-the-transformation-of-thailands-economy)󠁿

###  󠀁[Prime Minister Anutin Congratulates Nene Royal on ‘AGT’ Triumph](https://www.thailand-business-news.com/entertainment/331069-prime-minister-anutin-congratulates-nene-royal-on-agt-triumph)󠁿

###  󠀁[Thailand is rolling out a new EV tax structure linked to local manufacturing](https://www.thailand-business-news.com/asean/329565-thailand-is-rolling-out-a-new-ev-tax-structure-linked-to-local-manufacturing)󠁿

###  󠀁[China and ASEAN trade deal speeds up business exchanges](https://www.thailand-business-news.com/asean/329080-china-and-asean-trade-deal-speeds-up-business-exchanges)󠁿