Thailand tests modified VT-4 main battle tanks and Stingray light tanks.

The Royal Thai Army Research and Development Office (ARDO), in collaboration with Khon Kaen University, has conducted trials of locally produced lithium-ion batteries on the main battle tank VT-4 and the light tank Stingray at the Sripatcharin camp in Khon Kaen Province, Thailand. The tests began on February 2, 2024, and concluded on February 15, 2024.
Follow Army Recognition on Google News at this link

Thailand has conducted trials of locally produced lithium-ion batteries on the main battle tank VT-4 and the light tank Stingray. (Picture source: ARDO)

This initiative represents one of many research projects aimed at developing and producing lithium-ion batteries in Thailand. The goal is to innovate and create Thailand-specific lithium-ion battery technologies for various applications, ranging from powering electronic devices to electric vehicles. The funding for the lithium-ion battery research and development program comes from the Office of the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research, and Innovation of Thailand (OPS MHESI) for the fiscal year 2022.

The VT-4 is a modern battle tank designed and manufactured by China, currently serving in the armies of several countries, including China, Nigeria, Pakistan, and of course, Thailand. This tank is armed with a 125 mm smoothbore cannon, a 7.62 mm coaxial machine gun, and a 12.7 mm remote weapon station, thus combining significant firepower with versatility on the battlefield. To protect its crew and machinery, the VT-4 is equipped with enhanced composite armor on the hull's nose and the front of the turret, with the option to add reactive armor on each side of the tank for increased defense against anti-tank attacks.

The VT-4 weighs 52,000 kg and can reach a maximum speed of 70 km/h with an operational range of 500 km. In terms of equipment, the VT-4 features a nuclear, biological, and chemical (NBC) protection system, a friend-foe identification (IFF) system, a GL5 active protection system, a fire suppression system, an air conditioning system, and an explosion suppression system. These enhancements significantly improve the crew's survival and the tank's resilience in various combat scenarios. The VT-4 is operated by a crew of three and measures 10.10 meters in length, 3.50 meters in width, and 2.40 meters in height.

The Royal Thai Army (RTA) began its acquisition of the VT-4 main battle tanks from China's North Industries Group Corporation (Norinco) in 2016, marking a modernization effort of its armored capabilities. This move came as part of Thailand's broader strategy to update its military hardware and shift towards more modern and capable systems.

The initial batch of 28 VT-4 tanks was delivered to Thailand in October 2017, under a deal valued at approximately $150 million (4.9 billion baht). This first delivery underscored Thailand's status as the inaugural export customer for the VT-4 tank, reflecting the deepening military and strategic ties between Thailand and China. Subsequently, additional tanks were ordered to further enhance the RTA's armored capabilities. Specifically, in January 2019, the RTA sought approval for the purchase of an additional 14 VT-4 tanks from Norinco.

By November 2023, China had completed the delivery of all 60 VT-4 main battle tanks ordered by the Royal Thai Army, with the final units being delivered to the 6th Cavalry Battalion in Khon Kaen and the 21st Cavalry Battalion in Roi Et. This fulfilled Thailand's immediate procurement plans for the VT-4, bringing the total inventory to a sizeable force capable of significant operational deployment. The VT-4 tanks are part of a broader initiative by the RTA to replace older tank models, including US-produced M41s and M60s, with more modern and capable main battle tanks. The acquisition reflects both the RTA's operational requirements and the strategic decision to enhance its military capabilities through cost-effective solutions offered by international partners like China.

Traditionally, lead-acid batteries have been used in heavy vehicles, including tanks, to provide electrical power. However, the successful trials of lithium-ion batteries on the main battle tank VT-4 and the light tank Stingray demonstrate a move towards developing a more efficient electric power system for military applications.