Ruling the Skies and Seas: The Chakri Naruebet @ HTMS Chakri Naruebet, Chonburi Province

Having visited many places in Chonburi, a province that is synonymous with the sea, I discovered that it also boasts numerous other beautiful tourist attractions that are worth a visit at least once in your lifetime. One such attraction is the HTMS Chakri Naruebet.

The History of HTMS Chakri Naruebet

During Typhoon Gay in the Gulf of Thailand near Chumphon Province in 1989, the Royal Thai Navy, the primary government agency responsible for search and rescue operations at sea, deployed ships and aircraft to assist victims. These victims included personnel from the natural gas drilling platform in the middle of the Gulf of Thailand and fishermen. However, the operation faced limitations due to the Navy's largest ship at the time being unable to withstand the typhoon's conditions. This resulted in difficulties and inefficiencies in the rescue efforts.

Furthermore, the Navy's mission to protect national sovereignty and maritime interests, especially with Thailand's exclusive economic zone now extending 200 nautical miles, necessitates large ships equipped with modern technology. Such vessels would enable faster and more timely search and rescue operations at sea. Additionally, having helicopters stationed on board would significantly expand the patrol area and extend the duration of operations at sea, enhancing overall effectiveness.

Therefore, the Royal Thai Navy conceived the idea of building a helicopter carrier to fulfill these objectives. A feasibility study was conducted on the procurement and operation of such a vessel. Subsequently, on March 17, 1992, the Cabinet approved the Navy's request to build a helicopter carrier through a government-to-government contract with Bazan of Spain for approximately 7.1 billion baht. The Navy signed the construction contract on March 27, 1992.

The Royal Thai Navy requested the auspicious name for the helicopter carrier to bring good fortune to the Navy and to boost the morale of the ship's crew. It also serves as a reminder of the great kindness of all the monarchs of the Chakri Dynasty, who have ruled the country with the Ten Royal Virtues, making the country united and prosperous, on par with other civilized nations. The monarchs have been the center of unity for the Thai people, enabling them to live together peacefully for over 200 years. The Royal Thai Navy has received the great kindness of His Majesty the King, who has graciously bestowed the name of this ship as "HTMS Chakri Naruebet," which means "the supreme ruler of the Chakri Dynasty."

The HTMS Chakri Naruebet is a large helicopter carrier, the first of its kind in Southeast Asia. With a displacement of 11,743 tons, it can withstand waves of up to 13.8 meters in height. To ensure the cost-effectiveness of the ship, the Royal Thai Navy has considered specifying its features to enable it to serve as a sea base, extending the operational range of aircraft and warships to protect the country's maritime interests and sovereignty.

The Royal Thai Navy's flagship, HTMS Chakri Naruebet, is open to the public for free from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. Visitors can drive directly to the pier, where ample parking is available. After parking, the entrance is just a short walk away.

As we walk along the path for a while, we will encounter an exit door that offers a breathtaking view of the ocean and mountains. The vista is unobstructed (although I must admit to feeling a slight sense of trepidation). Rest assured, the location is secure, with barriers in place. However, if you are accompanied by children, please ensure close supervision.

Reaching the top deck of the ship, you will find a wide-open space with panoramic views. Looking towards the sea, you can see large cargo ships passing by. You can walk around and take pictures on different parts of the ship. If you go during midday, it would be a good idea to bring an umbrella or hat, as it can get quite hot. The weather was very hot on the day we visited.

After exploring the upper deck and taking photos to our satisfaction, let's take a look below. The HTMS Chakri Naruebet is a very large ship (the camera almost couldn't capture the whole picture). The overall length is 182.6 meters, the beam amidships at waterline is 22.5 meters, the flight deck width is 30.5 meters, the height to the flight deck is 18.5 meters, and the mast height is 42 meters.

Several warships are docked at Sattahip Naval Base. Other warships may be docked nearby. Today, the HTMS Similan, hull number 871, is also docked.

The two warships are named HTMS Phutthayotfa Chulalok (461) and HTMS Phutthaleksalanphlai (462).

Thank you for the information from the website of the Fleet Command, Naval Task Force.

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