Royal Thai Army selects Thales's STARStreak Air Defence System

Thales UK has signed a contract to supply the STARStreak air defence missile system to the Royal Thai Army.

The deal was welcomed by the British Prime Minister, the Rt. Hon. David Cameron, MP, during his meeting with the Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Thailand, Her Excellency Ms. Yingluck Shinawatra.

The system comprises of STARStreak missiles – the world’s fastest very-short-range air defence (VSHORAD) missile – and Lightweight Multiple Launchers (LML). The LML tripod-based system allows swift deployment of STARStreak missiles to deal with attacks from low-level fighter aircraft, Unmanned Air Vehicles (UAVs) and attack helicopters. The system will be a key part of the modernising of the air defence forces protecting the Kingdom of Thailand.

The multi-million pound contract follows on from the successful deployment of the STARStreak and LML system at the London 2012 Olympics, where it formed a core element of the British Army’s air defence capability. The high-profile role of STARStreak in the air security plan for London 2012 has led to increased interest in the system around the world.

Alex Cresswell, Vice President for Land Defence at Thales UK, said: “STARStreak is the leading VSHORAD system in the world today, enabling nations to protect key assets against both emerging and established threats. We are delighted by the selection of this system by the Royal Thai Army and will work with our customer to ensure a smooth delivery into-service and through life support.”

Source : Thales Group