1. Edited - บทที่ 1 ตอนที่ 1- รวม V.1 Final version by Winn แก้ปกหลังแ

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87 The procession during the Royal Funeral of Admiral Phra Chao Barommawongse Ther Phra Ong Chao Abhakara Kiartiwongse Krom Luang Jumborn Khet Udomsakdi at Sanam Luang

88 Chapter 2 The History of the Royal Thai Navy Episode 1 The Origin of the Royal Thai Navy In ancient times, from the Sukhothai Kingdom through the Ayutthaya Kingdom to the early days of the Rattanakosin Kingdom, there was no clear separation between the army and the navy. Boats were utilized for transporting troops, weapons, and supplies to various regions. Most of the ships used in the military were riverboats, primarily based on the design of Maad boats (carved from whole trees) that were modified to mount guns at the bow. Larger ships were adapted from Chinese-style argosies, used by the king and coastal navigation. The military structure in the early days of the Rattanakosin Kingdom was inherited from the one in the Ayutthaya period. In ancient times, soldiers in peacetime were palace guards and the king’s royal guards, who were positioned in royal ceremonial processions and perimeter security (providing security for the kings by being arranged in forms of an inner and outer circle.) Moreover, the soldiers were assigned to noble people and highranking officials. Recruiting a large number of men without reasonable causes was not permitted as it would cause suspicion. It was only allowed to bring men in to be trained on the order of the kings. Soldiers were not permanently assigned to the army, as is the case today. Those who served as soldiers were usually "Puak Prai", the offspring of noble people or royal attendants, who were conscripted according to the affiliations of their parents. The number of conscripted soldiers had to meet the requirement. The conscription was for short periods, and the soldiers were rotated in and out. Those conscripted were referred to as "Kao Wain" or “on duty.” In war time, troops were called into their affiliation to reach the expected numbers. After the war, the soldiers were released to live their normal lives. Trade with foreign countries in the early Rattanakosin period was originated from kings and noble people who constructed argosies ships to carry on trade with foreign nations, as

89 well as coastal areas to generate income for the royal treasury. Initially, Chinese laborers formed the primary workforce. During the wartime, cannons were installed on ships, and the deck house of the vessels were modified to resemble Vietnamese argosies ships. Later, in the reign of King Rama IV, the trade between Siam and Western countries increased; a royal shipyard capable of repairing and building steam-powered warships was established. It is understood that there were three royal shipyards: Wat Rakang Shipyard, Wang Na Shipyard, and Baan Somdej Shipyard. Those that were owned by foreign companies during King Rama IV's reign included the building yard of Messrs. D. Maclean and Co., founded in 1855 (B.E. 2398), and the Bangkok Dock Company Shipyard, established in 1865 (B.E. 2408). Sailing ships were either royal vessels of the king or were of noble people, depending on who funded and commissioned their construction. These vessels fell under various authorities. During the reign of King Rama IV, the Steamship Department was established. The Royal Vessel Siam Orasumpol was commissioned on 9 November 1855 (B.E. 2398).

90 Yongyot Ayochaiya, Ship known in English as "Impregnable," the first steamboat warship of Siam was constructed in 1863 (B.E. 2406) and decommissioned on 27 April 1908 (B.E. 2451). The Royal Thai Navy during the Reign of King Chulalongkorn (King Rama V): Modernizing and Transitioning to Self-Reliance During the reign of King Chulalongkorn (King Rama V) was the time when significant societal transformation occurred, from ancient to a more contemporary society. His Majesty initiated administrative reforms and developed the country, following European models. His Majesty hired foreign experts to work in key positions in which Siamese people were not yet skillful. This facilitated the transfer of knowledge and technology to Siamese people. In addition, His Majesty sent many Siamese students to study in Europe. Military Reconstruction and Military Training of Siam during the Critical Period During the colonization by major powers in Europe which was increasing in intensity, especially by England and France. These countries had conquered nations that surrounded Siam. This was because France had advanced into more territories in the Indo-China region to compete with England. Siam, therefore, took all measures to hold its sovereignty during this critical period. At that time, King Chulalongkorn recognized the importance of military power for national security. This was reflected on when he traveled abroad, such as to Singapore and Java in 1870 (B.E. 2413) and India in 1871 (B.E. 2414). His Majesty used Siamese Navy warships and steamboats as royal transports; however, key positions, especially those of commanding officers and chief engineers, were taken by foreigners. In 1872 (B.E. 2415), King Chulalongkorn reconstructed the military. It was divided into nine units: His Majesty’s Royal Guard (Chamberlain Regiment) Department, the Palace Guards Department, the Palace

91 Security Department, the Artillery Department, the Elephantry Department, the Cavalry Department, the Oarsmen Department, the Royal Yacht Troops (Vesatri) Department, and the Orasumpol Department (the Marine Army troops that boarded ships). Each unit was trained by foreign instructors, overseen by commanders who were nobles or trusted officers, and operated independently. Before the establishment of the Siamese Navy Department, naval forces were scattered among various units in the military. Units that were previously parts of the Wang Na Navy included the Steam Ships Department, the Cham Volunteer Department, and the Sea Department, also known as Sailors Department. The second department is the Orasumpol Department (the Marine Army troops that boarded ships). The units under its command included the Steam Ships Department and the Mon Volunteer Department and Cham Volunteer Department. Its duty is to command all warships but the royal vessels. (Under its command were the Ordnance Department, and the Catling Gun.) The Catling gun played a critical role in the Haw wars; that is, in 1860 – 1890 (B.E. 2403 – 2433), the Military Marine Corps (the Marines) placed this gun on a war elephant. It was considered one of the most powerful weapons of its time. In 1885 (B.E. 2428), navy operations were divided into two departments which were operated independently and under the command of the king: the Royal Yacht Troops (Vesatri) Department, and the Orasumpol (Gun Vessels) Department (the Marine Army troops that boarded ships), with the Mon Volunteer Department and the Cham Volunteer Department under its command. Later, King Chulalongkorn established the War and Marine Department (Krom Yuthanathikarn) on 8 April 1887 (B.E. 2430) and named the department that commanded all navy personnel as “The Navy Department.” At that time, the Orasumpol (Gun Vessels) Department (the Marine Army troops that boarded ships) and the Royal Yacht Troops (Vesatri) Department were merged. This completely separated the naval affairs from the army. The naval headquarters was located near the royal foundry, while the royal dockyard was in the south of Wat Rakang. In official documents, the navyheadquarters was called “Navy Office Tahan Ruea."

92 On 1 April 1890 (B.E. 2433), the War and Marine Department (Krom Yuthanathikarn) was promoted to become the Ministry of War and Marine (Krasuang Yuthanathikarn). There were seven army units and two navy units: the Royal Yacht Troops (Vesatri) Department and the Orasumpol (Gun Vessels) Department (the Marines). The Franco-Siamese War (The Incident of R.S. 112): from Foreign Dependency to Self-Reliance Before the Franco-Siamese War, King Rama V had sent his sons to be educated in Europe to receive excellent education and knowledge for modernizing and governing the country upon their return to the country. In 1885 (B.E. 2428), King Rama V ordered a Europeanstyled military officer school foundation. In 1887 (B.E. 2430), the king ordered the procurement of iron warships from western countries and hired many foreign contractors who were highly skilled to work in the navy Department. The reasons were that Siamese educational system was obsolete and focused on learning Thai and Bali at temples. Modern subjects such as English, mathematics, and science were taught at Suankularb College and were provided only to royal family members and noblemen.Therefore, while Siam still lacked modern knowledge and technology, King Rama V believed that the performance of foreign contractors could ensure the capability of Naval affairs. King Rama V predicted the possible threats against Siam and the capital city; therefore, His Majesty ordered Phra Chulachomklao Fort to be constructed at Laem Fa Pha Sub-district and Phi Sua Samut Fort near Phi Sua Island in Phra Samut Chedi District in Samut Prakan Province. The construction budget was allocated from his personal savings. The construction began in 1884 (B.E. 2427) and finished in 1893 (B.E. 2436). Moreover, His Majesty ordered the procurement of Sua Mob artillery, produced by Sir W.G. Armstrong in Britain, to be installed on the forts. The First Mahachakkri Royal Cruiser was commissioned in 1892 (B.E. 2435) and decommissioned on 23 June 1916 (B.E. 2459).

93 Suriya Monthon was Siam’s first paddle steamboat in 1892 (B.E. 2435). On 13 July 1893 (B.E. 2436), the Franco-Siamese War or the “Paknam Incident” broke out. France breached the treaty between Siam and France signed in 1867 (B.E. 2410). The incident started when French gunboats entered the Siamese water territory without permission and penetrated the Siamese defense line to anchor off the French Embassy in Bangkok. France blocked the Gulf of Siam and forced Siam to pay an indemnity of three million francs in reparation for the fighting at the Chao Phraya River’s sandbars. Hence, Siam inevitably had to hand over the 51,000–square kilometer territory in the east of the Mekong (Cambodia and Laos) and had to let France temporarily take over Chanthaburi for 10 years. As a result, Siam had to comply with the French government’s demand which could not be denied or negotiated. The Franco-Siamese War indicated that Siamese Navy was far behind when it came to battle readiness. Although Siamese sailors were brave and ready to fight, they lacked war operations and weaponry skills, and did not have the latest military technology. The Siamese Navy was obviously outdated as Thai sailors lacked modern education and technology and had to rely on foreigners’ trainings and suggestions for internal and external affairs. The Navy Department, therefore, faced challenges such as the obsolete organization and chain of command management, the lack of knowledgeable commanding officers, the unsuccessful use of foreign personnel to facilitate the country’s development, the lack of combat-ready active-duty personnel, and the insufficient budget for modern warship procurement. “Phra ChulachomklaoFort” was Siam’s only protection for the capital. All these difficulties and the unfulfilled aims were the major obstacles to the Navy’s development. After the Franco-Siamese War, King Rama V realized that the foreigners serving in the Navy only worked for wages, and not for Siam’s benefits. Accordingly, they were no longer trusted to serve as commanders, commanding officers, or fort commanders in the Navy. His Majesty had a great desire to overhaul Siam’s naval capabilities to keep abreast of the West’s,

94 prioritizing the task of appointing Siamese people as commanders in the Navy Department. His Majesty’ priority was to replace foreign contractors working as chiefs and commanders in the Siamese Navy Department with the all-Thai crew members. Siam had to be self-reliant and no longer depended on foreign contractors. The Siamese Navy after the Franco-Siamese War and Lessons Learned for the Military Development Three months after the Franco-Siamese War in 1896 (B.E. 2439), King Rama V sent Prince Vajiravudh (who later ascended to the throne and became King Rama VI) and Prince Abhakara Kiartivongse, who was only 13 years old, to receive education in naval sciences in Britain. However, due to the passing of the first Crown Prince of Siam, Maha Vajirunhis, Prince Vajiravudh was appointed a Crown Prince and had to divert his education to military (army) and political sciences. Hence, Prince Abhakara Kiartivongse had become the core of Siam’s naval science education. In Britain, the prince spent six years at the academy receiving seamanship training on British warships and observing several weapon companies in Europe. The prince returned to Siam after the completion of his education and began working in the Siamese Navy Department. Therefore, this was regarded as the solid foundation of Siam’s naval education. The prince had laid out the holistic development plans for the Navy’s military affairs. The main objective of this overhaul was the curriculum development, incorporating new maritime technologies for naval cadets. Finally, King Rama V granted the royal palace “Wangderm” to the Navy Department as the location for the Naval Academy, which was inaugurated by the king on 20 November 1906 (B.E. 2449) later marked as the Navy Day. Regarding the development of naval dockyards, maintenance, and Siam’s ship building, on 9 January 1890 (B.E. 2433), King Rama V inaugurated the Royal Dockyard situated on the south bank of the Chao Phraya River, on the side of Wat Rakhang Khositaram Woramahawihan, in Bangkok. All these achievements contributed to the initiation of personnel development to replace the use of foreign contractors working for the navy. The initial attempt was declared by the first all Siamese-crew member sea training from July to September 1907 (B.E. 2450). Krom Muen Prince Abhakara Kiartivongse, the commanding officer of H.T.M.S. Makut Rajakumarn I,navigated the ship with one hundred Naval Cadets and Naval Engineering Officer

95 students to Singapore and Batavia on Java Island (Jakarta, the present capital city of Indonesia). This was considered the first sea training abroad of the Siamese naval cadets. The Naval Affairs in the Reign of His Majesty King Vajiravudh (Rama VI) During the first period of His Majesty King Vajiravudh, Rama VI, ascending to the throne, insurgency arose in Europe and the Ottoman Empire. Tensions between powerful countries derived from Britain, France, German, and Russia attempted to gain influence over the Balkan Peninsula, the area under the governance of Turkey. This foreshadowed the emergence of World War I. Upon seeing the arising tension, King Rama VI decided to reorganize the national defense by disbanding the Department of Military Operations and transferring military affairs to the Ministry of Defense, which was responsible for commanding only the army. The Department of Navy was also promoted to the Ministry of the Royal Navy and was responsible for naval affairs only. The biggest portion of the national budget was allocated to the defense section despite the stagnant national economy. Eventually, World War I broke out from 28 July 1915 (B.E. 2458) to 11 November 1918 (B.E. 2461) in Europe. At the start of the war, King Rama VI had adopted the policy of “strict neutrality” for 3 years. Inevitably, on 22 July 1917 (B.E. 2460), King Rama VI decided to join the Allies and declared war on the Central Powers comprising Germany, Austria-Hungary, and Turkey. This move was Siam’s opportunity to restore the nations’ sovereignty and free foreign trades with the western countries such as Britain and France through negotiation. This would lead to the end of unfair treaties, especially the Bowring Treaty of 1855 (B.E. 2398), which allowed the establishment of a British consulate in Bangkok and guaranteed its full extraterritorial powers to British subjects, together with the right to trade freely with the fixed three-percent import and export duty for all articles. This unfair treaty had been effective for 70 years, and it was the right time to end. Moreover, these moves allowed Siam to join the League of Nations as a member and provided the expertise for Siam to modernize her defense strategies. After the war declaration, the Siamese Navy was the first among all the Siamese military branches to fight in WWI, as it performed the naval operations to successfully seize 25 German cargo ships in the Chao Phraya River. Regarding the naval affairs, King Rama VI approved of the establishment of the group “The Royal Navy League of Siam under the Royal Patronage of His Majesty the King.” His Majesty granted seed money, along with donation from Thai people, as a fund to purchase the R-Class Destroyer H.M.S.Radiant from the Royal Navy, which

96 was later named “Phra Ruang” with the call sign “HSXH.” On 7 October 1920 (B.E. 2463), the warship safely arrived at the Chao Phraya River’s Safe Water Buoy with Admiral H.R.H. Prince Abhakara Kiartivongse as the first Thai national commanding officer who successfully brought such an enormous ship with the then most-advanced technology back from Britain to Siam. H.T.M.S. Phra Ruang “HSXH” Commissioned on 11 October 1920 (B.E. 2463) Decommissioned on 19 June 1959 (B.E. 2502) On 16 March 1911 (B.E. 2454), the Ministry of Navy ordered the establishment of the Royal Navy Institute under the supervision of the Naval Staff Department. The institute was commissioned on 1 April 1916 (B.E. 2459), for providing knowledge regarding higher naval affairs and other branches required for naval officers’ tasks and duties, as well as an education institution for officers to learn and exchange information. Later, King Rama VI graciously granted the establishment of the Royal Naval Institute. Navikkasat Magazine: Year 1 Issue 1 January 1917 (B.E. 2460)

97 The Siamese Army Motor Corps participated in the victory parade in Paris, France on 14 July 1919 (B.E. 2462). King Rama VI dedicated the royal land at Sattahip Bay expropriated for the establishment of a naval base, as in December 1914 (B.E. 2457), the land was inspected and announced a strategic location for the naval affairs. On 5 September 1922 (B.E. 2465), Admiral H.R.H. Prince Abhakara Kiartivongse requested the land from King Rama VI. Later on 22 September 1922 (B.E. 2465), the land was granted and has since been the home of Sattahip Naval Base until today. The Naval Affairs in the Reign of His Majesty King Prajadhipok (Rama VII) King Prajadhipok or Rama VII ascended to the throne on 26 November 1922 (B.E. 2465). On 24 June 1932 (B.E. 2475), a small group of soldiers and civil servants under the name “The People Party” conducted a revolution to overthrow the absolute monarchy and seized important governmental locations. King Rama VII returned to the capital from his outside residence and granted the temporary constitution on 27 June 1932 (B.E. 2475). The King had resigned for 9 years, until his abdication on 2 March 1935 (B.E. 2478). World War I, which was from 28 July 1914 (B.E. 2457) to 11 November 1918 (B.E. 2461), had posed an economic threat to the beginning of King Rama VII’s reign. Countries around the world, including Siam, suffered from an economic depression.

98 King Rama VII tried to salvage the nation’s economy by cutting down the budgets and expenditures of most ministries, decreasing government officers’ salary rates, laying off officials, overhauling the tax system, increasing taxation, merging provinces, and abandoning the British sterling link with gold standard. Moreover, in the beginning of His Majesty’s reign, King Rama VII continued and finished the foreign affairs unsettled from the reign of King Rama VI, which were ratification of old treaties. His Majesty also initiated new treaties and foreign relations and established diplomatic relations with Germany in 1928 (B.E. 2471). In addition, King Rama VII signed the Convention Concerning Indochina 1926 (B.E. 2469) which stipulated the 25-kilometer-wide demilitarized zone on both sides of the boundary line of the Mekong River instead of just the Siam’s side. The Naval Affairs after the 1932 (B.E. 2475) Siamese Revolution After the end of World War I, worldwide economic depression broke out and affected the national budgets and expenditures. The Siamese defense forces were forced to use old and obsolete equipment and weapons from World War I era, and hindered combat readiness. At the end of 1935 (B.E. 2478), the House of Representatives approved of the Naval Force Support Act of 1935 (B.E. 2478) under the condition that the Navy must be able to procure ships within 5 years, with the allocated budget of eighteen million Baht. After the end of the procurement period, the Siamese Navy was able to add more ships as follows: - 2 Heavy gun boats - 7 Large torpedo boats - 2 Minelayers - 4 Submarines - 2 Sloops (Training cruises) - 3 Small torpedo boats - Cargo ships - 6 Seaplanes - Armament such as artillery and mines After the failed coup attempt “the Manhattan Riot” in 1951 (B.E. 2494), the Navy was heavily changed and diminished most of its power. On 16 July 1951 (B.E. 2494), the Ministry of Defence ordered the dissolution of many naval units. Ships from the naval base in Bangkok were relocated to the naval station in Sattahip which was renamed the Royal Thai Fleet. The Thai Marines was downsized and reassigned as Defence Department at the naval station in

99 Sattahip. Naval Aviation Fleet was handed over to the Royal Thai Air Force. The Submarine Unit was placed under the newly established Coastal Patrol Boat Unit. These submarines were later decommissioned on 30 November 1955 (B.E. 2498), ending their 12 years of service. H.T.M.S. Sinsamut (The 3rd Submarine from the group of 4) arrived in Thailand on 29 June 1938 (B.E. 2481). Commissioned on 19 July 1938 (B.E. 2481) Decommissioned on 30 November 1955 (B.E. 2498) H.T.M.S. Thonburi on her training mission on 27 November 1939 (B.E. 2482) Commissioned on 5 October 1938 (B.E. 2481) Decommissioned on 26 September 1941 (B.E. 2484) The Naval Affairs in the Reign of King Ananda Mahidol (Rama VIII) At the first phase of the Siamese Revolution, King Ananda Mahidol ascended to the throne on 2 March 1935 (B.E. 2478) at the age of nine. Regents to King VIII were appointed to run things temporarily until His Majesty was 25 years old for the young king had to study and live in Switzerland. Therefore, the regents were of great responsibility in providing advice to

100 His Majesty and to work with the government. King VIII returned to Thailand twice, and on 9 June 1946 (B.E. 2489), passed away at the age of twenty-one. World War II broke out from 1939 (B.E. 2482) to 1945 (B.E. 2488). In the European theatre, Germany defeated France in 1940 (B.E. 2483). On 12 June 1940 (B.E. 2483), the Anglo-Thai Non-Aggression Pact was concluded between the governments of the Kingdom of Thailand and France, and the ones of the Kingdom of Thailand and the United Kingdom. The Thai government wanted to reclaim the land ceded to France during the reign of King Rama V and to negotiate for the adjustment of the boundary lines along the Mekong River according to the international laws and the nature of the area, but France disagreed. This led to the harassing along the eastern border, which sparked the Franco-Thai War on 28 November 1940 (B.E. 2483). France violated Thai borders and conducted air attacks and dive-bombing in Nakhon Panom Province. Armies of the two nations also launched offensives along the borders of Thailand and French Indochina. The Royal Thai Navy also participated in this war, according to the following records: The Royal Thai Marine Corps: Thai marines and army organized the Chanthaburi Battalion to support the Eastern Force. This battalion was responsible for seizing Baan Trang and Muang Pailin, as well as joining the Eastern Force Brigade to seize Phra Tabong Province. Later, Japan stepped in to mediate the conflict. The naval force: a naval special task force was surprised by a French flotilla, resulted in the “Battle of Ko Chang” when the Royal Thai Navy lost three coastal defense ships: H.T.M.S. Thonburi, H.T.M.S. Cholburi, and H.T.M.S. Songkla. 36 Navy personnel also lost their lives in the battle. During the Greater East Asia War, the Royal Thai Navy was responsible for the protection of Kelantan State. Towards the end of the war, the Allies had started to direct their attention to the East. The navy readied naval forces, ships, personnel, and weapons, including a sizable gulf patrol flotilla as preparation for the inevitable war. The Royal Thai Navy cooperated with the Imperial Japanese Navy, according to the agreement between the Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Navy and Japanese Attaché in Bangkok. The Royal Thai Navy would patrol the Gulf of Thailand and cooperate with the Imperial Japanese Navy to ward off and fight Allies’ submarines in the South Indochina Sea and to destroy underwater magnetic mines near ports, and along rivers. The Minesweeper Department was established to conduct the task.

101 During the hardship in the wartime, the Royal Thai Navy continued to serve and was ready to risk everything. As international trades were impossible, the Thai Government decided to buy fuel from Japan; H.T.M.S. Samui was assigned to be an oil tanker, running between Bangkok and Singapore to transport the needed fuel back to the country. On 6 March 1945 (B.E. 2488), H.T.M.S. Samui was sunk by two torpedoes from the USN submarine “Sealion”. Seventeen sailors survived the ordeal and thirty-one lost their lives. The Royal Thai Navy in the Reign of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej the Great (Rama IX) After World War II (1939 – 1945 (B.E. 2482 – 2488)), there were two world superpowers: democracy and communism. The influence of Communism extended to many countries. Thailand participated in two big wars: Korean War and Vietnam War, including the fight with Communism in the country. The Korean War broke out on 25 June 1950 (B.E. 2493) when ten divisions of North Korean troops crossed the 38th parallel and could finally capture Seoul. The United Nations denounced North Korea’s actions and called for the member countries to send the troops to participate in the war. Thailand was one of the first counties participating in the UN troops. The Royal Thai Navy provided them with H.T.M.S. Prasae I and H.T.M.S. Bang Pakong as escort and transport ships to transport the soldiers amidst massive storm and huge waves day and night. That was the reason that the Royal Thai Navy lost H.T.M.S. Prasae I that went aground on the shores of North Korea. Then, the Royal Thai Navy purchased two frigates from the USA and named them H.T.M.S. Prasae II and H.T.M.S. Tachin as replacements. The result of the operations was praised among the allied countries participating in the campaign. Finally, on 27 July 1953 (B.E. 2496), the Korean War ended after the two countries had armistice talks. However, an armistice agreement between these two countries has not been signed. The Korean War has not officially ended. They are still enemies. In Indochina, Vietnam War broke out in 1964 (B.E. 2507) and then on 2 December 1975 (B.E. 2518), Laos became Communist. According to Domino Theory, it was believed that from the expansion of Communism in Asia, when China, North Korea, and North Vietnam were Communist, the other countries such as Laos, Cambodia, Thailand, Malaysia would finally be occupied by Communism. Thailand began the close relationship with the USA, and the construction of naval base, port, and airport in Thailand. It was obviously seen in the part of the Royal Thai Navy

102 from the construction of U-Tapao Airport, and the development of Chuk-Samet Port to be the port to load and unload military supplies. Furthermore, the USA still assisted Thailand in the parts of weapons, education, as well as joint training with Thai Armed Forces. The Royal Thai Armed Forces have applied and developed the doctrine of the USA as the prototype up until now. In Vietnam War or the second Indochina War between 1 November 1955 (B.E. 2498) and 30 April 1975 (B.E. 2518), the Royal Thai Navy sent H.T.M.S. Pa-ngan, a big landing ship, and T 12, a coastal patrol craft with a code name, Sea Horse Element to participate in this important incident. For the development of the Royal Thai Armed Forces in the cold war between 1945 and 1991 (B.E. 2488 – 2534), the Royal Thai Armed Forces were provided with the main assistance from the USA for protecting and defending Communism infiltration in the period of political conflict and communism expansion. This is because the Thai government provided the USA with the personnel support in Vietnam War and the war in Laos. On 1 July 1975 (B.E. 2518), Thailand established the diplomatic relationship with China (Chinasupported Communist Party in Thailand). The problem related to Communism Party of Thailand has terminated since 1980 (B.E. 2523). Thailand received less weaponry assistance from the USA; there were new threats with various forms. Countries emphasize more resources and power over coastal waters. Furthermore, there was the discovery of important living and non-living natural resources, commercial impediment, chaos in the southern part of Thailand including terrorism and natural disaster that were more complex including the insecure political situation. Consequently, that affected the weaponry procurement budget of the Royal Thai Armed Forces and brought into the government approach to support the country protection industry to mostly decrease the weapon import from other countries. The Royal Thai Navy management has based on self-reliance since 1956 (B.E. 2499) when the Royal Thai Navy started the construction of small torpedo ship “H.T.M.S. Sattahip I” by technicians and workers attached to Naval Logistics Support Department (Royal Thai Naval Dockyard at present). The Royal Thai Navy in the Reign of His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua (Rama X) Because many countries in the world emphasize national marine benefits, especially after UNCLOS 1982: the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, delimitation of resources, and the power over the coastal waters, as well as the new polar between the UN

103 and China, Thai government has been encouraged to maintain the stability, neutrality, the relation and cooperation between countries, including territorial disputes in the South China Sea with other countries in the Asian with China in a balanced way. The development of the Royal Thai Navy still followed the previous approach by empowering the Royal Thai Navy much enough to be able to do the operations and maintain the national benefits of both coastal waters: Thai Gulf and Andaman. Hence, principles of the weaponry procurement and the personnel development of the Royal Thai Navy are to maintain the neutrality, avoid depending on specific country, promote military research and development to the same direction as the defence Industrial Development, and intensify the cooperation with the navy of allied countries. In addition, Thai Maritime Enforcement Command Center has been encouraged to play a leading role together with coastguard, or the regional and neighboring maritime security units. Accordingly, it is necessary to maintain both important roles: combat and non-combat roles. The Development and Self-Reliance of the Royal Thai Navy Since the era of King Rama V, naval weaponry had been procured from foreign sources and support. In 1956 (B.E. 2499), the Royal Thai Navy started constructing smaller naval vessels, which is H.T.M.S. Sattahip I, which was an adaptation from Japanese ships. In 1960 (B.E. 2503), His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej the Great, observing the construction of the coastal patrol boats at Lürssen Werft Shipyard, Bremen in Germany, granted his royal endorsement for the Royal Thai Navy “The Royal Thai Navy should begin building ships of this kind to use ourselves.” In addition, when His Majesty King Rama IX returned to Thailand, he presented his opinion of the ships’ design, and gave advice to the staff of the Royal Thai Naval Dockyard. This encouragement and His Majesty's guidance laid the foundation for the Navy's shipbuilding projects. Project T 91 was initiated, spurred by the royal inspiration. His Majesty King Rama IX graciously gave a speech when he presided over the Keel-laying ceremony of the T 91, a coastal patrol craft in 1967 (B.E. 2510): "… The defense of the nation through sea routes is the most direct and crucial duty of the Royal Thai Navy. This responsibility is a substantial burden that relies on well-informed, capable personnel and high-quality naval vessels. Previously, most of the navy's vessels were procured from foreign sources, but the ability of the Royal Thai Navy to begin constructing naval patrol boats is a notable advancement that should be

104 welcomed and supported. It is considered as a significant step forward of the Royal Thai Navy ..." The Royal Thai Navy has embarked on designing and building its own ships in 1967 (B.E. 2510). In 1967 (B.E. 2510), the T 91 Coastal Patrol Craft Project was successfully completed in 1968 (B.E. 2511). The T 91 class coastal patrol craft were commissioned in 1968 (B.E. 2511) and decommissioned on 1 October 2019 (B.E. 2562). His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej the Great (Rama IX) (title at the time), personally inspected and assessed the capabilities of these ships. This marked the beginning of the Thai Navy's shipbuilding endeavors once again. In addition, this project contributed to the development of the shipbuilding industry within the country. The Royal Thai Navy has continued to promote shipbuilding in collaboration between the Royal Naval Dockyard and private shipyards in Thailand. Some notable vessels resulting from these efforts include the patrol gunboats, the Hua Hin class, which are sixty meters long and displace six hundred tons. The Krabi class are offshore patrol vessels (OPVs); its patent for 90m OPVs were purchased from BAE Systems, the United Kingdom. These vessels displace 1,969 tons. This class includes H.T.M.S. Krabi, commissioned on 26 August 2013 (B.E. 2556), and H.T.M.S. Prachuap Khiri Khan, commissioned on 27 September 2019 (B.E. 2562). These vessels play a crucial role in safeguarding the nation's interests and providing assistance to the population in the coastal waters of Thailand. His Majesty King Rama IX (title at the time) observed the construction of the patrol craft in Germany in 1960 (B.E. 2503).

105 His Majesty King Rama IX (title at the time) presided over the keel-laying ceremony of three patrol craft in 1967 (B.E. 2510). His Majesty King Rama IX and Her Majesty Queen Sirikit (title at the time) presided over the launching ceremony of the T 91 patrol craft at Thonburi Naval Dockyard Bangkok Noi District, Bangkok on 9 May 1968 (B.E. 2511).

106 His Majesty King Rama IX and Her Majesty Queen Sirikit (title at the time) presided over the launching ceremony of the T 91 patrol craft at Thonburi Naval Dockyard Bangkok Noi District, Bangkok on 9 May 1968 (B.E. 2511). The T 91 patrol craft on the water at Thonburi Naval Dockyard Bangkok Noi District, Bangkok on 9 May 1968 (B.E. 2511)

107 His Majesty King Rama IX and Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn (title at the time) on the T 91 patrol craft observing the RTN Taksin 19 Training in Narathiwat Province on 1-2 August 1969 (B.E. 2512) It was His Majesty’s first time to be on the craft. His Majesty King Rama IX (title at the time) presided over the keel-laying ceremony of the T 991 patrol craft at Dockyard 1, Thonburi Naval Dockyard, Royal Thai Navy Dockyard on 9 September 2005 (B.E. 2548).

108 His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej The Great, Rama IX and Her Majesty Queen Sirikit (title at the time), along with Her Royal Highness Princess Sirindhorn (title at the time) traveled from Chitralada Royal Villa in Dusit Palace to Thonburi Naval Dockyard to preside over, and perform the launching ceremony of the T 991 patrol craft upon the auspicious occasion of His Majesty the King’s Eightieth Birthday. Her Majesty the Queen graciously gave a well-wishes blessing to invite good luck and baptized the craft by giving a symbolic rosewater sprinkling, a blessing marking, a tri-color cloth wrap, and a floral garland to the T 991 patrol craft anchored in the Dockyard 1. The craft was ceremoniously launched and transferred to the water on 30 April 2007 (B.E. 2550).

109 The T 911 and the T 99 patrol craft anchored alongside each other at Phra Chulachomklao Fort, the Royal Thai Navy Dockyard at Laem Fa Pha, Phra Samut Chedi District, Samut Prakan Province in September 2007 (B.E. 2550). Her Majesty Queen Sirikit and Her Royal Highness Princess Sirindhorn (title at the time) presided over the launching ceremony for the T 992 and the T 993 patrol craft, the commemorative craft for His Majesty the King’s 80th Birthday, which were in the same class as T 991. The ceremony was held at Marsun Company Limited in Tai Bann Sub-district, Muang District, Samut Prakan Province on 6 September 2007 (B.E. 2550). The success of the T 991 patrol craft led to the development and improvement of T 994, according to the Royal Thai Navy strategic plan of 2008 – 2011 (B.E. 2550 - 2554).

110 Her Royal Highness Princess Sirindhorn (title at the time) graciously presided over the keel-laying ceremony for the OPV H.T.M.S. Prachuap Khiri Khan 552 at the Royal Thai Navy Mahidol Dockyard in Sattahip on 23 June 2017 (B.E. 2560). The OPV H.T.M.S. Prachuap Khiri Khan 552 at the Royal Thai Navy Mahidol Dockyard in Sattahip on 2 August 2019 (B.E. 2562)

111 Episode 2 The Royal Thai Navy’s Organization (From the Past to Present) During the reign of King Mongkut or Rama IV (18 October 1804 (B.E. 2347) –1 October 1868 (B.E. 2411)) in Ratanakosin Era, the navy was located in two areas: the Wang Na Navy, under the command of King Pinklao, and the marines (established in 1824 (B.E. 2367)), under the command of the Orasumpol Navy. In the reign of King Phranangklao or Rama III, they acted only as honor guards for receiving the king. For the warships, it was under the command of Somdej Phraya Borommaha Sri Suriyawong (Chuang Bunnag), then the Samuha Kalahom (Defence Minister). In the beginning of King Chulalongkorn (Rama V)’s reign, the administration system was Jatusadom or the division into four ministries: (Interior, Royal Household, Finance, Agriculture), with the Defence Minister commanding the military. At that time, the navy was divided into 2 major sections: the Royal Palace Navy or Orasumpol Navy under the Defence Minister, and Phra Racha Wang Bavorn Navy or Wang Na Navy under the command of Krom Phra Rajawang Bovom Sathan Mongkol. The Orasumpol Department comprised three main units: the Steam Ships Department, the Mon Volunteer Department, and the Cham Volunteer Department. The Wang Na Navy had several units under its command: the Steam Ships Department, Cham Volunteer Department and Sea Department, also known as Sailors Department. In 1872 (B.E. 2415) after the trip back from India, King Rama V reformed the Siamese military into European system which was divided into nine sections: the Royal Guards, the Guard Regiment, the Palace Regiment, the Front Regiment, the Artillery Regiment, the Engineer Regiment, the Oarsmen Regiment, the Royal vessel (Wesatri), and the Orasumpol Navy (marines). In 1875 (B.E. 2418) King Rama V ordered Gatling guns to be used in Krom Saeng. Later, the military personnel attached to Krom Saeng were transferred to the Navy which was separated from army affairs or the marines. . The marines joined the Siamese army during Haw Wars in 1884 (B.E. 2427).

112 In 1885 (B.E. 2428) the Navy occupied two major navy forces: the Royal Ship Navy under the command of the King and the Orasumpol Navy under the command of the Defence Minister. In 1887 (B.E. 2430) King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) granted permission to enact Military Management Act in R.E. 1249 (B.E. 2430). On 8 April 1887 (B.E. 2430) King Chulalongkorn appointed H.R.H. Crown Prince Maha Vajirunhis as Commander-in-Chief, according to traditions and established a War and Marine Department (Krom Yuthanathikarn or the Ministry of Defence at present) with the army and navy under the command of the Crown Prince. According to naval affairs, “the Orasumpol Navy,” consisting of the army force for warship or the marines, under the command of the Defence Minister and “the Royal Palace Navy of Rajawang Bovorn” or “the Wang Na Navy,” were combined and renamed as “the Navy Department.” Five units under its command were the Navy Hospital, the Navy Prison, the Dockyard, the Navy School, and the Navy Supply. The date of 8 April every year has been taken as the foundation day of Naval Supply Department. In 1889 (B.E. 2432) the marines were positioned at Phra Chulachomklao Fort and Phi Suea Samut Fort. The marines in the Krom Saeng Navy were Infantry and Artillery Corps. Infantry Corps were stationed in Bangkok and navy stations whereas Artillery Corps were stationed in fort and near the mouth of the Chao Phraya River. On 1 April 1890 (B.E. 2433) the 1887 royal decree was revoked and an Act to establish and manage the Department of War and Marine was issued. In the new Act, the name of the department was changed to "Ministry of War and Marine" with the duties of commanding navy and army personnel. According to the new Act, the Army Department and the Navy Department were under direct command. The Navy Department was divided into: 1. the Central Department, 2. the Finance Division, 3. the Navy Supply Department, 4. the Victualling Purchasing Division, 5. the Navy Prison, 6. the Dockyard, 7. the Engineering Department, 8. the Navy Hospital, 9. the Marines, and 10. His Majesty’s Ships and Royal Vessels. On 9 January 1890 (B.E. 2433) the Thonburi Naval Dockyard had played a significant role in repairing ships since the reign of King Mongkut (Rama IV). At that time, steam ships were used in the Navy. It was named the Royal ship dockyard. The Thonburi Naval Dockyard was located in the south of Wat Rakhang Khositaram, Thonburi Province (known as Siriraj Subdistrict, Bangkok Noi District, Bangkok at present). King Chulalongkorn (Rama V) granted permission to construct a large wooden dock and proceeded to preside over the opening ceremony on 9 January 1890 (B.E. 2433). The date of 9 January every year was taken as the

113 Foundation Day of the Navy Dockyard. On 11 December 1922 (B.E. 2465) King Rama V appointed Admiral H.R.H. Prince Abhakara Kiartiwongse, Prince of Jumborn, Chief of Staff of the Siamese Navy, as the Director General of the Naval Civil Department, and the Naval Dockyard. In 2015 (B.E. 2558), the Naval Dockyard was relocated to Chuk Samet Pier, Sattahip Subdistrict, Sattahip District, Chon Buri Province. In 1891 (B.E. 2434) Non - Commissioned Officers’ School was established under the command of the Marines (the Marine Sergeants School). In 1892 (B.E. 2435) the system of administration, Jatusadom or the division into four ministries (Interior, Royal Household, Finance, and Agriculture) was abolished and new administrative structure consisting of twelve ministries was introduced and enforced with the Ministry of Interior assuming responsibilities for various cities around the kingdom. The Ministry of Defence was no longer responsible for state administration, but only military affairs. The Navy Department was placed under the command of the Ministry of Defence rather than the Ministry of War and Marines which was responsible for the army only. In 1896 (B.E. 2439) Hydrographic affairs initially started in the reign of King Mongkut in 1856 (B.E. 2399). The government granted permission to Britain for sending H.M.S. Saracen to Bangkok on 6 January 1855 (B.E. 2398). Its mission was to conduct a hydrographic survey in the Gulf of Siam in the purpose of cartography for nautical map and the Chao Phraya River Delta map in 1856 (B.E. 2399). Later in 1896 (B.E. 2439), the Marine Map Division was established. After the system of Jatusadom was abolished, the Marine Map Section, Krom Tha Klang (Marine Administrative Work) was under the command of the Navy Department. In 1914 (B.E. 2457), the Marine Map Division was renamed into the “Hydrographic Division” and in 1921 (B.E. 2464), it was upgraded to “the Hydrographic Department, Royal Thai Navy.”

114 The Gulf of Siam Pilot from Prachuap Khiri Khan to Ko Juang, Sattahip District, Chon Buri Province The Survey granted permission by King Mongkut was made in British’s H.M.S. Saracen between 1856 and 1857 (B.E. 2399 – 2400). Then, it was the prototype of the present nautical map No. 001. In 1897 (B.E. 2440) the Marine Infantry Officer’ School was established. In 1898 (B.E. 2441) the Torpedo Department was established. On 22 April 1899 (B.E. 2442) the 2 nd Section or Intelligence Section (Naval Intelligence Department at present) was established and under the command of the Naval Staff Department. In 1900 (R.E. 119 or B.E. 2443) the Navy Department was restructured with thirteen departments under its command. The Navy Supply Department was still under the command of the Navy Department. Later in 1901 (B.E. 2444), the organization was restructured and divided into four departments. But for this time, “the Navy Supply Department” was downgraded to “the Supply Division” under the command of the Central Command Department as follows: - the Central Command Department - the Ship and Fortress Command Department - the Navy Command Department - the Education Department On 5 April 1900 (B.E. 2443) King Rama V granted permission to establish the Navy’s Non - Commissioned Officers’ School, which was opened on 5 April. The Cadet School was located at Wat Wongsamoon Viharn in Thonburi Naval Dockyard (the Royal Thai Naval Dockyard at present). And then, it was relocated at Nantha Uthayan. At that time, the Navy

115 Department consisted of the Armaments Department, the Navy Coast Guard (navy stations) located in Bang Phra Subdistrict, Chon Buri Province, Klaeng District, Rayong Province, Khung District, Chanthaburi Province, Laem Ngop District, Trat Province and Ko Kong in Cambodia (one battalion of French soldiers were stationed in Chanthaburi and Laem Singh). In 1900 (B.E. 2443) the Navy Command Department (the Marines), the Navy Coastline Department and the Education Department were established. In addition, the Navy Staff Department was disbanded and replaced by the Naval Education Department. All naval officers including the combat personnel, combat assistants, and the marines used navy ranks, not army ranks. On 2 March 1903 (R.E. 122 or B.E. 2446) the Navy Department ordered the marines to be stationed in different units in the Navy Department. The Infantry marines were transferred to the Vehicle Division under the command of the Navy Command Department whereas the Artillery marines stationed at the fortress were transferred to the Ship and Fortress Command Department. The Vehicle Division consisted of two units which were the Ship Guard Division and the Infantry Division along the seaside cities under the command of the Navy Coast Guard Department. In 1905 (B.E. 2448) Admiral H.R.H. Prince Abhakara Kiartiwongse, Prince of Jumborn, initiated a maritime defence project consisting of maritime force demand and maritime force concept. It was considered as the Navy Department’s first military plan titled “A Brief of Maritime Defence Management.” In 1906 (B.E. 2449) the Navy Department was granted a budget to build a torpedo boat destroyer which later was named by King Rama V as “Sua Tayarn Chol” and the other three torpedo boats. The Navy Department had taken the delivery of these four torpedo boats, and they were commissioned on 27 August 1908 (B.E. 2451). In addition, active-sea mines were made.

116 , A torpedo boat destroyer named “Sua Tayarn Chol” was commissioned on 27 August 1908 (B.E. 2451) and decommissioned on 17 January 1939 (B.E. 2482). On 20 April 1908 (B.E. 2451) King Rama V granted permission to establish the Constitution Department. In 1910 (B.E. 2453) King Vajiravudh or Rama VI upgraded “the Navy Department” to “the Ministry of Navy” and “the War and Marine Department” to “the Ministry of Defence” (the Ministry of the Army). On 11 December 1910 (B.E. 2453), there was an announcement to appoint the Inspector General, the Minister of the Ministry of Defence and the Ministry of Navy. The Ministry of Navy restructured its organization all the time, but it strictly followed the old principles. The only change was the upgrading to the division or the department respectively. In 1913 (B.E. 2456) the Navy Staff Department was re-established and named as the Comptroller Department. The Supply Section was upgraded to the Supply Division. The Navy Command Department was disbanded whereas the Civil Engineering Division was upgraded to the Naval Civil Engineering Department. The Chumphon Department was established for governing and commanding military units in Bangkok. The Vessel Department was disbanded and royal ships were divided into fleets under the command of the Ministry of the Navy. The Vessel Division Class 4, which was formerly under the command of the Vessel Department, was transferred to be under the command of the Chumphon Department. The Navy Radio and Telegram Stations were set up as on land radio stations in Bangkok (Saladaeng), Songkhla and on some royal warships. The Navy Staff Department at that time was divided into four sections: Section 1 (Personnel), Section 2 (Intelligence), Section 3 (Operations) and Section 4 (Logistics). In 1914 (B.E. 2457) King Vajiravudh (Rama VI) ordered to preserve Sattahip Subdistrict and nearby areas including large and small islands inspected and found in a strategic place for the establishment of a naval base.

117 In 1920 (B.E. 2463) Admiral H.R.H. Prince Abhakara Kiartivongse, Prince of Jumborn, Chief of Staff of the Siamese Navy requested a Topography survey at Sattahip Subdistrict area. On 1 April 1916 (B.E. 2459) the Royal Naval Institute was established under the command of the Navy Staff Department with the purpose of educating commissioned officers. The Executive Committee of the Royal Naval Institute, Royal Siamese Navy in 1919 – 1921 (B.E. 2462 – 2464) (The 2nd floor of Admiral Sindhu Komolnawin Library, the Royal Naval Institute Office) On 1 July 1919 (B.E. 2462) the Ministry of the Navy enacted the regulations on classification of corps, category, and navy personnel. The naval combat personnel were divided into three corps which were Navigator, Engineer, and Marines. On 6 September 1922 (B.E. 2465) Admiral H.R.H. Prince Abhakara Kiartivongse, Prince of Jumborn, Chief of Staff of the Siamese Navy, requested King Rama VI for the use of the royal land at Sattahip Bay. The King granted his permission. In 1921 (B.E. 2464) the Naval Strategic Department was established under the command of the Naval Staff Department. There were two departments under its command, which were the Naval Education Department and the Hydrographic Department (formerly 7th Section). The Naval Strategic Department was divided into 7 sections: 1st Section, 2nd Section, 3 rd Section, 4th Section, 5th Section (Academic affairs and textbooks), 6th Section (Radio), and 7 th Section (the Naval Institute). In 1922 (B.E. 2465) the “Hydrographic Division” was upgraded to “the Hydrographic Department, Royal Thai Navy” under the direct command of the Navy Department. There

118 were two main departments in the Navy Staff Department: the Naval Strategic Department (the Operations Department) and the Naval Education. On 23 December 1922 (B.E. 2465) Sattahip Civil Engineering Division was established (23 December of every year is taken as the Foundation Day of Sattahip Naval Base). It was located at Laem Thian Foothill near the sea and under the command of the Jumborn Department. Although the Division was under construction and was not completed to be a naval base, it served as a pier for sea training ships. On 4 September 1930 (B.E. 2473), the Ministry of the Navy named it “the Sattahip Training Station”. In 1932 (B.E. 2475), Sattahip Bay was constructed to be a naval base and a road was built from Chon Buri Province to Sattahip District. On 20 April 1937 (B.E. 2480), it was renamed as “the Sattahip Naval Station” and on 19 September 1974 (B.E. 2517), it was renamed as “the Sattahip Naval Base.” On 8 November 1931 (B.E. 2474) during the reign of King Prachadhipok (Rama VII), the world faced an economic recession and Thailand, without exception, was severely affected. The finance and economy of Thailand was in such a low state that country spendings were reduced and offices were reorganised. The King ordered the combination of the Navy Department and the Army Department into one unit under the name of the Ministry of Defence as in 1894 (B.E. 2437). On 18 June 1928 (B.E. 2471) the Naval Science Department (NScD) was established as “the Science Hall” under the command of the Staff Department. It was located at the old palace in Thonburi. Its mission was to perform a chemical analysis, to conduct a physics test and an electricity experiment. In 1958 (B.E. 2501), the Naval Science Division was upgraded to “the Naval Science Department” and categorized as the Special Services Group under the command of the Royal Thai Navy. Later in 2001 (B.E. 2544), the Royal Thai Navy restructured its organization and placed the Naval Science Department under the direct command of the Royal Thai Navy and categorized it as the Logistics Support Group. In 1932 (B.E. 2475) due to the change in administrative and political regime to constitutional monarchy in Thailand, the Navy Ministry downgraded to the Navy Department. Anyway, it upgraded the Navy Dockyard, the Hydrographic Division, the Navy Ordnance Division to the “Department” as in the past and they were also under the command of the Navy Department. The Fleet was recalled as the Warship Squadron and the Navy Reserve Fleet was recalled the Warship Reserve Squadron. On 3 July 1932 (B.E. 2475) according to the Announcement of the Defence organization of the Kingdom issued on 3 July 1932 (B.E. 2475), the Royal Thai Navy established

119 Bangkok Navy Station. In October 1995 (B.E. 2538), the Royal Decree of on the Classification of Government Agencies and the Assignment of Duty for the Royal Thai Navy renamed Bangkok Navy Station to “Bangkok Naval Base” and officially established the Naval Administration Department. In 1931 (B.E. 2476) the Vehicle Battalion, the Marines Corps was reformed to function as the Navy Command Department, which had a similar structure to the Infantry Battalion of the Army. It was also renamed as the Marines Battalion consisting of three Machine Gun Companies and one Artillery Company. On 30 November 1933 (B.E. 2476) King Prachadhipok (Rama VII) changed the name of the Navy Department to "The Royal Thai Navy" to conform with "The Royal Thai Army" and placed it under the command of the Ministry of Defence. Its organization was divided into six departments which were the Staff Department, the Warship Fleet, Bangkok Naval Base, the Naval Dockyard, the Naval Ordnance Department and the Hydrographic Department. In 1933 (B.E. 2476) the Royal Thai Navy was granted an extra budget from the Parliament for the expansion of marine forces into regimental combat teams comprising infantry, artillery, engineering, and communication officers, along with the improvement of its naval forces. To prepare a new location for the new regimental combat team for the marines in 1936 (B.E. 2479) – 1938 (B.E. 2481), the Royal Thai Navy chose Tung Kai Tia, Sattahip District, Chon Buri Province to construct a new home for the Royal Thai Marine Corps. In 1935 (B.E. 2478) the House of Representatives approved the Maritime Logistics Act in 1935 (B.E. 2478). The Royal Thai Navy was assigned to complete maritime logistics management within five years and signed a contract with Mitsubishi Kobe Shipyard, Japan, to purchase four submarines of H.T.M.S. Matchanu class which were commissioned on 19 July 1938 (B.E. 2481). Submarine Squadron was disbanded on 16 July 1951 (B.E. 2494), and transferred to Coast Guard Squadron. Then, the Royal Thai Navy decommissioned these four submarines on 30 November 1951 (B.E. 2494).

120 The first four Thai submarines (four small boats at the bottom of the picture) were commissioned between 19 July 1938 (B.E. 2481) and 30 November 1951 (B.E. 2494). In 1937 (B.E. 2480) the Royal Thai Navy established 2nd Marines Battalion at Sattahip under the command of the Navy Station. It comprised three Small Gun Companies, one Heavy Machine Gun Company, and one Artillery Company. Most of the Marines Battalion was stationed at the Bangkok Naval Base and renamed as 1st Marines Battalion with only two Small Gun Companies. The first Marines Corps cadets project initiated in 1937 (B.E. 2480), has been continued. On 1 June 1938 (B.E. 2481) the Sea Wing Unit was established under the command of the Naval Fleet. The air base was located at Chuk Samet Subdistrict, Sattahip Bay (formerly known as 7th Wing or the Air and Coastal Defence Command at present). The Watanabe E9W aircraft was inspected in Bangkok on 4 May 1938 (B.E. 2481). On 24 February 1939 (B.E. 2482) the Royal Thai Navy established “the Marine Department” which was under the command of the Sattahip Naval Station. It comprised the Training Command consisting of Artillery Company with two Infantry Battalions: 1st Marines

121 and 2nd Marines as well as Battalions: two Small Gun Companies and one Artillery Company. Apart from this, there were support forces consisting of Calvary Reconnaissance Company and Engineering Company. In 1940 (B.E. 2483) before Greater East Asia War, the Royal Thai Navy set the guidelines to protect the base which might be the target from air attack. The Royal Thai Navy decided to establish the Air Defence on 16 July 1941 (B.E. 2484), which was under the command of the War Fleet (known as the Royal Thai Fleet at present) as a temporary station at Ratchaworadit Pier. In 1942 (B.E. 2485) the Sea Wing Unit was upgraded to be “the Sea Wing Fleet”. On 20 June 1942 (B.E. 2485) the Cannon School was transferred to the Arm School which was under the command of the Naval Education Department. Then, it has been under the Fleet Training Command, the Royal Thai Fleet on 1 January 1955 (B.E. 2498). In 1943 (B.E. 2486) the Sea Wing Fleet was renamed to the Naval Air Division consisting of two air fleets. On 1 January 1953 (B.E. 2496) the Royal Thai Navy was granted approval from the Ministry of Defence to divide the organization according to workforce management in normal duty. The Royal Thai Fleet was restructured by dividing into four squadrons which were Patrol Squadron, Submarine Squadron, Mine Squadron, and Support Service Squadron. On 5 February 1953 (B.E. 2496) due to financial difficulty and political problem in the country, in 1933 (B.E. 2476), the Navy Ministry was downsized into the Royal Thai Navy and was under the direct command of the Ministry of Defence. It was restructured in the organization respectively. In 1951 (B.E. 2494), the Royal Thai Navy restructured and renamed “the Naval Fleet” which formerly consisted of four Flotillas such as Gunboat Flotilla, Torpedo Boat Flotilla, Auxiliary Ship Flotilla, and Royal Ship Flotilla to “the Royal Thai Fleet”. This fleet comprised four squadrons such as Patrol Squadron, Submarine Squadron, Mine Squadron, and Support Service Squadron, and then combined Gunboat Flotilla and Torpedo Boat Flotilla into one unit under the name as “Patrol Squadron.” On 2 February 1955 (B.E. 2498) the Naval Secretariat was established. On 18 October 1960 (B.E. 2503) the Supreme Command Headquarters approved the principle to the Royal Thai Navy to establish the Naval Air Unit and procure aircraft to defence the country at sea. Later, the Ministry of Defence ordered the creation of the Naval Air Unit on 5 July 1962 (B.E. 2505). Then, on 9 August 1966 (B.E. 2509), the Supreme Command

122 Headquarters presented the airfield named as "U-Tapao Naval Airbase" to the Royal Thai Navy for official work purposes. On 20 October 1965 (B.E. 2508) the Royal Thai Army coordinated with the Royal Thai Navy to set up Chanthaburi and Trat Defence Force for a mission to protect sovereignty and maintain security along the borders of Chanthaburi Province and Trat Province. As a result from a political crisis between Thailand and Cambodia on the Preah Vihear Temple conflict, the International Court of Justice or the World Court decided that Cambodia had sovereignty over the whole territory of the promontory of Preah Vihear, and that Thailand was obligated to withdraw its forces from that territory in June 1962 (B.E. 2505). This incident caused the worsening relationship between the two countries. On 20 November 1970 (B.E. 2513) the Royal Thai Navy established the Mekong Riverine Operation Unit (MROU). It took this date as the Founding Day of MROU. Its mission was to combat against communism in Thailand and under the operating command of the Communist Suppression Operations Command which was known as the Internal Security Operations Command at present. Its responsible areas along the Mekong River started from Loei Province to Ubon RatchathaniProvince. Therefore, the Royal Thai Navy established MROU station in that area on 17 July 1973 (B.E. 2516). On 1 October 1995 (B.E. 2538), the Royal Thai Navy established Chiang Rai MROU Station under the operating command of the Third Army Area. Later on 28 May 2004 (B.E. 2547), the name "The Mekong Riverine Operation Unit (MROU)” was changed to "The Mekong Riverine Security Unit (MRSU).” Its main responsibilities were to prevent and suppress illegal acts, assist people affected by disasters, and provide land force support to defence the country. On 27 July 1973 (B.E. 2516) the Ministry of Defence approved to establish the Royal Thai Riverine Squadron, the Royal Thai Fleet. Its aims were to prepare force and provide logistics support to operational units along the MekongRiver as well as operating the riverine area of the Royal Thai Navy with effectiveness. Its mission was to be prepared for operating force in the territory riverine and internal riverine, to be responsible for defence, intervention, destruction of any actions which have an impact on national interest and sovereignty along the riverine. In 1967 (B.E. 2510), in 1976 (B.E. 2519), and in 1978 (B.E. 2521) the Royal Thai Navy divided its organizational structure into twenty-five departments and categorized them into 5 distinct administrative groups which were Command Group, Combat Group, Logistics Group, Education Group, and Task Forces Group. In 1968 (B.E. 2511), the Royal Thai Navy set up 7 th

123 Infantry Battalion in Rayong Province. In 1971 (B.E. 2514), it expanded the Navy Air Squadron to the Naval Air Division which was under the command of the Royal Thai Fleet. Later in 1978 (B.E. 2521), 8 th Infantry Battalion was set up in Songkhla Province, and 9th Infantry Battalion was set up in Nararthiwat Province. In 1975 (B.E. 2518) the Ministry of Defence approved the principles on the readiness for air defence for naval bases and other important naval installations. In 1981 (B.E. 2524), the Air and Coastal Defence Unit was set up under the command of the Sattahip Naval Base and utilized the Sattahip area granted from the Royal Thai Air Force as a unit location. On 17 March 1978 (B.E. 2521) the Office of the Navy Comptroller was established to perform duties on the behalf of the Royal Thai Navy. On 31 May 1978 (B.E. 2521) the Office of the Prime Minister gave an order to the Royal Thai Navy to be responsible for border security on land and at sea in Chanthaburi Province and Trat Province. The Royal Thai Navy appointed the Commander of the Chanthaburi and Trat Defence Force to be responsible for border security in the designated area. In 1979 (B.E. 2522) the Supreme Command Headquarters commanded the Royal Thai Navy to establish the Chanthaburi and Trat Border Defence Command coordinating with the Border patrol police and the Marine police in an operating area under the operational control. Moreover, it commanded the Royal Thai Air Force to support theoperation and set a boundary line between the Royal Thai Army and the Royal Thai Navy by using Chanthaburi Province and Prachin Buri Province’s provincial boundary lines. On 13 July 1985 (B.E. 2528) the Naval Transportation Department was established and was under the command of Logistics Group. The Commissioned School was renamed the Institute of Advanced Naval Studies. On 29 April 1987 (B.E. 2530) the Naval Audit Agency was officially established. On 15 April 1989 (B.E. 2532) the Marine Division was established at Samae San Camp and changed the name from the Marine Department to the Royal Thai Marine Corps. On 24 December 1989 (B.E. 2532) the Naval Research and Development Office (NRDO) was established to be responsible for policy, research, development, control, and coordination in research and development with other research institutes both inside and outside the Navy. It also conducted research and development in weapons, principles, doctrines, and practice in war. On 14 May 1990 (B.E. 2533) the Ministry of Defense approved to change the name from the Naval Air Division to the Royal Thai Naval Air Division.

124 On 13 August 1990 (B.E. 2533) the Royal Thai Navy was assigned to be responsible for air and sea defense in economic zones by initiating Eastern Seaboard Development Program. It expanded the Air and Coastal Defense Department to the Air and Coastal Defense Command under the direct command of the Royal Thai Navy. Its mission was to protect industrial estates and special economic zones as well as sovereignty from threats which were beyond naval force along eastern coast to southern coast of Thailand, both in the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea. On 1 January 1992 (B.E. 2535) the Ministry of Defense approved the Royal Thai Navy to restructure the Combat units categorized by their fleet types in the organizational chart of the Royal Thai Fleet. In an earlier time, they were divided into four fleets, and then they were classified into nine fleets. On 11 March 1992 (B.E. 2535) the Ministry of Defense approved to amend the workforce management in the Royal Thai Fleet for flexibility in maintenance and administrative work by increasing 3 fleets which were: Frigate Squadron 1 (former name was Anti-submarine Squadron) This squadron comprised a group of anti-submarine ships with a similar basic structure of logistics. Most anti-submarine ships were procured from the USA. Frigate Squadron 2 The Royal Thai Navy had taken delivery of four Chinese built frigates in Chao Phraya class such as H.T.M.S. Chao Phraya, H.T.M.S.Bang Pakong, H.T.M.S. Kraburi, and H.T.M.S. Saiburi. In 1994 (B.E. 2537), the Royal Thai Navy took delivery of H.T.M.S. Naresuan and H.T.M.S. Taksin. Helicopter Carrier Squadron It was established to support on active duty Helicopter Carrier according to the Royal Thai Navy’s policy to acquire a large ship with full capability in search and rescue missions. In addition, its mission was to protect sovereignty and national interests in Thailand’s exclusive economic zone. In 1993 (B.E. 2536) the Royal Thai Navy had a demand to procure AV - 8S Harrier for H.T.M.S. Chakri Naruebet in the purpose of being a primary force to defense threats from sea and air while going on missions in the deep sea where air force from land base was unable to provide protection all times and continuously. Therefore, in 1995 (B.E. 2538), the Royal Thai Navy initiated the procurement of nine AV - 8S Harriers which once stationed in the Spanish Navy and they were sent to Thailand on 10 August 1997 (B.E. 2540).

125 H.T.M.S. Chakri Naruebet, AV - 8S Harrier and S-70B Seahawk On 1 April 1992 (B.E. 2535) the Royal Thai Navy divided the Amphibious and Support Service Squadron to the Amphibious Squadron and the Combat Support Service Squadron in order that their missions were clearly separated. In 1995 (B.E. 2538) according to the Royal Decree on the Classification of Government Agencies and the Assignment of Duty for the Royal Thai Navy, the Royal Thai Armed Forces, Ministry of Defense B.E. 2538 and B.E. 2540 (the Second Edition), the Royal Thai Navy divided its organizational structure into thirty-five departments and united them into five distinct administrative groups: eleven departments in Command Group, nine departments in Combat Group, eight departments in Logistics Group, four departments in Task Forces Group and three departments in Education Group. (The Royal Thai Naval Air Division was restructured on 24 July 1996 (B.E. 2539)). On 26 October 1995 (B.E. 2538), the Naval Civil Affairs Department was under the direct command of the Royal Thai Navy. On 17 March 1997 (B.E. 2540) the government by the National Security Council and the Cabinet’s approval agreed to establish the Thai Maritime Enforcement Coordinating Center (Thai-MECC). It was under the supervision of the National Security Council with the RTN Chief of Staff/Thai-MECC Chief of Staff as the Director of Thai-MECC. The Board of Thai-MECC comprised the Director General or the Head of agencies related to maritime activities. Their responsibilities were to set up policies or plans and to function as the center of coordinating operations in relation to the national maritime interest protection and as the center of maritime operation working with other government agencies related to maritime activities. To stabilize harmonious work with no redundancy, continuous information exchange is maintained, and the Royal Thai Navy serves as the center of coordinating, assisting, and supporting all agencies in maritime operations.

126 On 1 April 2009 (B.E. 2552) the Royal Thai Navy restructured its organization which was effective from 1 April 2009 (B.E. 2552) by dividing into thirty-six departments and united them into four distinct administrative groups: Command Group, Combat Group, Logistics Group, and Education and Research Group. In addition, the Naval Acquisition Management Office and the Office of the judge Advocate General were officially established. In Combat Group, the Royal Thai Fleet was restructured by officially disbanding the Coastguard fleet, adjusting some positions in Special Combat, the Naval Special Warfare and establishing new organizations which were the First Naval Area Command, the Second Naval Area Command, and the Third Naval Area Command. In addition, it reorganized the Songkhla Naval Base and the Phang Nga Naval Base, which once were under the direct command of the Royal Thai Navy, to be under the command of the Second Naval Area Command and the Third Naval Area Command respectively. In Logistics Group, the Naval Research and Development Office was the under command of Education and Research Group whereas the Naval Hydrographic Department was under the command of Logistics Group. Moreover, the Institute of Advanced Naval Studies was officially disbanded. On 9 March 2019 (B.E. 2562) the Thai Maritime Enforcement Coordinating Center was restructured to the Thai Maritime Enforcement Command Center (Thai-MECC) in the purpose of an integration on planning and budgeting for government agencies related to national maritime interest protection. Thai-MECC’s status and structure comprising six main agencies has been adjusted to play more roles in participation. It is under the direct supervision of the Prime Minister, with the Prime Minister as the Director of Thai-MECC, with the RTN Commanderin-Chief as the Deputy Director of Thai-MECC, the RTN Deputy Commander-in-Chief, the Director General of the Marine Department, the Director General of the Department of Fisheries, the Director General of the Customs Department and the Director General of the Department of Marine and Coastal Resources, and the Marine Police Commander of the Thai Marine Police Division as the Assistant Director of Thai-MECC.

127 Episode 3 The Royal Thai Navy Flag, Navy Jack, Gade Flag, and Flag of the Royal Thai Navy The Royal Thai Navy flag is officially used by the Royal Thai Navy to be hoisted up the mast in the same way as the national flag. It is also hoisted at the end of government ships. The Royal Thai Navy flag represents the nation in the same way as the national flag does. It is tri-coloured, but with a red circle in the middle, taking space of four-sixth of the flag’s width. The edge of the circle reaches both sides of the red stripe. In the circle, there is a caparisoned white elephant standing on a pedestal facing the staff. In 1680 (B.E. 2223), the national flag in the reign of King Narai the Great of Ayutthaya Kingdom was also used as the first Siamese Navy flag, the red one, and has been utilizing as an emblem of the Royal Thai Flag. The National Flag, and the Royal Thai Navy flag in 1680 (B.E. 2223) in Ayutthaya Kingdom Era In 1782 (B.E. 2325), King Buddha Yodfa Chulaloke the Great (Rama I) of Rattanakosin Kingdom initiated the idea that there should be a distinctive symbol to differentiate the private ships to the government ones. Therefore, His Majesty ordered government vessels to have the white chakra in the middle of the red flags. This flag then became the Royal Thai Navy Flag. The Royal Thai Navy in 1782 (R.S. 118 or B.E. 2325)

128 In 1817 (B.E. 2360) in the reign of King Buddha Loetla Nabhalai (Rama II) (1817 – 1823 or B.E. 2360 - 2366), three white elephants were presented to the King. His Majesty then had the figure of a white elephant (not caparisoned) added to the center of the "chakra" on the flag used by government vessels. 1817 – 1823 (B.E. 2360 – 2366) Government Vessels Flag used during the reign of King Rama II, Rattanakosin Era In 1855 (B.E. 2398) King Phra Chom Klao (Rama IV) ordered private merchant ships to use the same flags as government vessels. This was because the flags previously used by private ships were similar to those used by other nations. However, His Majesty ordered the removal of the "chakra", as it is considered a symbol of the Royal House. This flag then contained the figure of a white elephant on a red ground and was to be used by both government and private vessels.” Government Vessels Flag (National Flag) used during the reign of King Rama III until 1891 (B.E. 2434), during the reign of King Phra Chom Klao (Rama IV)

129 In 1891 (B.E. 2434)King Chulalongkorn the Great (Rama V) graciously gave a new name for the Royal Thai Navy Flag, “the Flag with a Caparisoned White Elephant Standing on a Pedestal.” It is a red rectangular flag with a caparisoned white elephant, which is facing the staff, standing on a pedestal in the center and a white "chakra" on the upper left comer of the flag. The flag was hoisted at the stern of both royal vessels and warships. The Flag for Royal Vessels in 1891 (B.E. 2434) In 1897 (B.E. 2440) King Chulalongkorn the Great (Rama V) ordered to rename the flag from “the Flag with a Caparisoned White Elephant Standing on a Pedestal to the Flag for Royal Vessels.” Its appearance remained the same, except for the white "chakra", which was removed. The Flag for Royal Vessels (Official Flag) in 1897 (B.E. 2440) On 2 March 1910 (B.E. 2453) (Effective on 1 April 1911 (B.E. 2454)) there were some changes in the Royal Thai Navy Flag. First, it was renamed from the Flag for Royal Vessels to

130 the Navy Flag. Second, the appearance of being a red flag with a caparisoned white elephant standing on a pedestal in the center, was added by a symbol of a yellow "chakra" on a yellow anchor under a yellow Mahapichai crown in the upper left comer of the flag. This flag was hoisted at the stern of ships and at official buildings to symbolize that they were under the Ministry of Navy. Navy Flag 1910 – 1917 (B.E. 2453 – 2460) On 28 September 1917 (B.E. 2460)King Mongkut Klao Chao Yu Hua (Rama VI) ordered to add dark blue into the flag, which makes the flag have three colours, and called it the “tri-coloured flag.” The flag has been used since it was to be effective thirty days after its announcement. Once the national flag was changed, the “Navy Flag” was renamed to the “Royal Thai Navy Flag.” The Chan flag also changed; it became the tri-coloured Navy Flag, but it has a red circle in the center of the flag and contains a caparisoned white elephant standing on a pedestal and facing the staff. This flag was hoisted at the stern of ships and buildings of the Navy. Navy Flag from 1917 (B.E. 2460) to the present era

131 The Gade flag, currently the Chan Flag: Navy Jack is hoisted in the prow of war ships and government vessels. In 1855 (B.E. 2398) the "Gade flag" was first used during the reign of King Rama IV. His Majesty graciously presented the name for this flag. The flag is of a bare white elephant (not caparisoned and not on a pedestal) facing the staff. The background of the flag is dark blue and is hoisted in the prow of government vessels to distinguish them from Siam private vessels. In 1891 (B.E. 2434) during the reign of King Rama V, there was an announcement to use the blue flag with a caparisoned white elephant standing on a pedestal instead of the previous flag. In 1917 (B.E. 2460), there was another change in the Chan flag. It became a tricolored background flag. In the center, there is a "chakra" with eight points turning clockwise, placed in an anchor’s shank under a Mahamongkud crown. These sets of symbols are all in yellow. It was first announced to be used on 28 September 1917 (B.E. 2460). After that, the appearance of the Chan flag since 1917 (B.E. 2460) remain unchanged. This flag is used with royal vessels and government ships. It can also be used by any navy amphibious units which did not have its own flag. The Gade Flag 1855 - 1891 (B.E. 2398 – 2434) The Gade Flag 1891 - 1910 (B.E. 2434 – 2453) or the Chan Flag 1910 - 1917 (B.E. 2453 – 2460)

132 The Chan Flag from 1917 (B.E. 2460) to the present era Flag of the Royal Thai Navy Flag of the Royal Thai Navy is a rectangular flag, which is six parts wide and nine parts long. The background is dark blue with a white circle in the center. Its diameter is four sixths of the width of the flag. Within the circle, there is a "chakra" with eight points turning clockwise, placed in an anchor’s shank under a Mahamongkud crown. In the center was placed an anchor with a "chakra" hung on the middle of the stock, surmounted by the Royal Crown. These sets of symbols are all in yellow. The Royal Thai Navy Flag from 1979 (B.E. 2522) to the present time

133 Episode 4 The Trusted Navy The Royal Thai Navy (RTN) is the naval branch of the Royal Thai Armed Forces, under the supervision of the Chief of Defense Forces, and under the Ministry of Defense. The Royal Thai Navy is under the command of the RTN Commander-in-Chief, and is responsible for maritime, riverine, and coastal military operations, as well as encompassing warships, aircraft, and land forces. Its main operation area covers both the Gulf of Thailand and the Andaman Sea, along the maritime border of 1,680 miles and the coastline of 1,500 miles. Royal Thai Navy Missions and Roles The Royal Thai Navy’s missions derive from many sources and factors. From the Constitution of the Kingdom of Thailand B.E. 2560 (2017), Section 52, it states that “The State shall protect and uphold the institution of kingship, independence, sovereignty, integrity of the territories and the areas over which Thailand has the sovereignty rights, honor and interest of the Nation, security of the State, and public order. For these purposes, the State shall provide efficient military, diplomatic, and intelligence services.” From the Royal Decree on the Organization of the Ministry of Defense B.E. 2551 (2008), Section 20, it states that "The Royal Thai Navy has a duty to prepare a maritime force for national defense and to exercise this maritime force under the authority granted by the Ministry of Defense, in charge of the RTN Commander-in-Chief.” In addition, the factors include the Royal Thai Government’s defense policies and strategies, higher units, 29 Provisions of Thai law giving full authority in maritime defense to the Royal Thai Navy, along with the Maritime National Interests Protection Act B.E. 2562 (2019). The missions of the Royal Thai Navy could be summarized as follows: 1. to prepare the maritime forces in combat-readiness and protect the kingdom 2. to protect the national maritime interests 3. to protect the Institution of Kingship 4. to support and uphold the security and stability within the kingdom 5. to support national development and provide general public assistance. From the missions of the Royal Thai Navy and the maritime doctrine, the Royal Thai Navy’s roles could be summarized as follows: 1. Military Role: maritime defense operations of the country in response to threats to sovereignty and integrity of the nation, which must be decisive, forceful, and firm

134 2. Constabulary Role: protection of maritime national interests, internal peacekeeping, law enforcement according to 29 provisions of law, various humanitarian assistance, disaster relief activities, and development of the country 3. Diplomatic Role: the use of maritime forces to support the government’s foreign affairs policies with the objectives of deterrence and the display of force when it is necessary to back up negotiations in case of conflict of interests or direct crisis threatening the security of the country The Royal Thai Navy’s Naval Strategy of 2017-2036 emphasizes the balanced development of the two seas and the three naval area commands, according to the Naval Strategic Thoughts “Two Oceans and Three Areas – OOAAA/Double O Triple A.” Based on the Naval Strategy of 2017-2036, the Royal Thai Navy must uphold and balance the combatant and non-combatant roles, and maintain the following three main roles: 1. Military Role: general maritime and land defense operations of the country in response to threats to sovereignty and integrity of the nation requiring Quick Response, Battlespace Dominance, and Sustained Operations 2. Constabulary and Benign Role: the protection of maritime national interests via the Thai Maritime Enforcement Command Center (Thai-MECC), internal peacekeeping, law enforcement according to 29 provisions of law, various humanitarian assistance, disaster relief activities, and development of the country such as research and development for selfsustainability 3. Diplomatic Role: the use of maritime forces to support the government’s foreign affairs policies with the objectives of deterrence and the display of force when it is necessary to back up negotiations in case of conflict of interests or direct crisis threatening the security of the country