Spanish company Escribano to equip Thai Navy patrol boats with Sentinel 30 turrets.

On February 4, 2025, the Spanish company EM&E Group, also known as Escribano, announced the supply of two Sentinel 30 naval remote-controlled weapon stations equipped with Mk44 Bushmaster II chain guns and two Oteos electro-optical systems to the Royal Thai Navy. This procurement is part of Thailand’s modernization efforts to enhance the capabilities of its patrol fleet. The contract marks the first instance of EM&E Group providing naval weapon stations to Thailand.
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The Sentinel 30 is designed for remote operation and includes a stabilized two-axis gyro system, surveillance and observation capabilities, and an automatic target tracking system. (Picture source: Escribano)

The Sentinel 30 and Oteos systems will be integrated into the Tor 997 and Tor 998 patrol boats of the Royal Thai Navy, with delivery scheduled by the end of 2025. This agreement follows prior cooperation between EM&E Group and Thailand’s defense sector. In 2024, the company supplied seven Guardian 1.5 land remote-controlled weapon stations, mounted on Chaiseri Armoured Wheeled Amphibious Vehicles for the Royal Thai Marines. These land-based systems featured 12.7mm heavy machine guns. Additionally, the Royal Thai Police operates EM&E Group’s aunav.NEXT robots for the neutralization of Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs) across the country. These robots, equipped with synchronized dual arms, can lift up to 250 kg.

The Sentinel 30 is designed for remote operation and includes a stabilized two-axis gyro system, surveillance and observation capabilities, and an automatic target tracking system. Its electro-optical components include a thermal camera, a high-resolution day camera, and a laser rangefinder, allowing detection and engagement of targets at extended distances under various lighting conditions. The turret has a dual-feed ammunition system, enabling operators to switch between different types of munitions.

Designed for integration into medium and large vessels, the Sentinel 30 is armed with a 30mm Mk44 Bushmaster II chain gun, with an option to upgrade to 40mm. With a capacity of 200 rounds per ammunition box, this turret includes a ballistic calculator and an ammunition programmer for airburst munitions. The Oteos electro-optical system functions as a fire control and observation system, supporting target tracking and remote operation.

Escribano has previously delivered its Sentinel 30 remote weapon station to other naval forces. The Spanish Navy has installed the system on Serviola-class patrol vessels and plans to integrate it into future F-110 frigates. The Peruvian Navy has also incorporated Sentinel 30 systems on Pisco-class multipurpose ships and patrol boats, using them alongside Oteos electro-optical tracking systems. Operational testing in maritime environments has verified the system’s capability to engage targets at long range.

The adoption of modular and automated naval weapons provides operational flexibility, cost-efficiency, and improved crew safety. Modular systems allow navies to reconfigure vessels for different missions by swapping out modules, extending platform service life, and reducing maintenance costs. Automation reduces crew size requirements, lowering personnel costs and minimizing human exposure to hostile environments. The modular nature of these turrets enables installation across various vessel types, from small patrol boats to larger frigates, enhancing operational versatility.