Thailand to receive the first batch of 28 VT4 Main Battle Tank.

According to the Bangkok Post; the first batch of 28 VT4 main battle tanks purchased for $ 147 million from China is expected to arrive at the Royal Thai Navy's Thung Prong port in Sattahip district of Chon Buri between Oct 8-15,an informed source said Monday, October 2.

The VT4 is a new generation main battle tank designed and manufactured by the Chinese Defense Company NORINCO

The Royal Thai Army's committee on military hardware standards will then begin inspecting the tanks, said the source. If no technical flaws are found they will be sentto the 3rd Cavalry Division in Khon Kaen, the source said.

Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Prawit Wongsuwon proposed in April a plan to procure another 10 VT4 Main Battle Tanks from China at a cost of $ 600 million, in the second phase of procurement for the Chinese-made tanks, the source added. The 28 tanks were reportedly purchased using the budget for the 2016-2017 fiscal year. Meanwhile, army chief Chalermchai Sitthisad said he would plough ahead with his "Smart Man-Smart Army" policy next year.

The announcement was made at a meeting of army units on Monday, following the latest reshuffle of officials.