According to information published by the Thai MoD on April 25, 2023, the Chinese-built Type 071 amphibious transport dock (LPD) HTMS Chang officially joins the Royal Thai Navy.
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Type 071 amphibious transport dock (LPD) HTMS Chang. (Picture source: Thai MoD)
In 2019, the Royal Thai Navy placed an order for an export version of the Type 071, known as the Type 071E. The vessel was delivered to the Royal Thai Navy on April 17, 2023.
About the Type 071 LPD
Type 071 is an amphibious transport dock that has a full load displacement of 25,000 tons. It is 210 meters (689 feet) long, with a beam of 28 meters (91 feet 10 inches) and a draft of 7 meters (23 feet).
The ship has a maximum speed of 25 knots (46 km/h; 29 mph) and a range of 10,000 nautical miles (19,000 km) at a speed of 18 knots (33 km/h; 21 mph).
Type 071 is equipped with 4 Type 726 Yuyi-class LCAC (Landing Craft Air Cushion) and landing craft on port/starboard davits, with a capacity to carry 60 armored fighting vehicles and 800 troops.
The ship is armed with 1 AK-176 76 mm (3.0 in) gun, 4 AK-630 30 mm (1.2 in) CIWS (Close-In Weapon System), 4 18-tube Type 726-4 decoy/chaff launchers, and can possibly install 2-4 heavy machine guns (fitted for but not with). The ship also carries 4 Z-8 Super Frelon helicopters.
