History Overview "AT-6TH" The AT-6TH is an attack aircraft of the Royal Thai Air Force and one of its high-performance aviation assets. It was procured to replace the retired L-39 ZA/ART trainer jets and supports armed patrols, surveillance-intelligence operations, as well as combat search and rescue missions.
According to Air Force spokesperson Air Marshal Jakkrith Thamvichai, at 10:20 a.m., an AT-6TH aircraft from Squadron 411, Wing 41, was involved in an accident during a combat search and rescue training mission in Chom Thong District, Chiang Mai Province (210-degree direction, 60 kilometers from Chiang Mai Airport), an Air Force training area. The incident did not affect local residents or nearby property.
Two pilots died in the line of duty: Squadron Leader Samatcha Khunmas (flight instructor), pilot one, and Flight Lieutenant Korawit Jenkid, pilot two. The Air Force Commander ordered an investigation and expressed deep condolences to the fallen pilots and their families, as previously reported.
The AT-6TH was commissioned into Squadron 411, Wing 41, in September 2025, with Air Chief Marshal Panpakdee Patanakul, former Air Force Commander, presiding over the ceremony. A total of 12 aircraft were procured to replace the retired L-39 ZA/ART trainer jets.
The AT-6TH is designed for multiple roles, including close air support, armed patrols, surveillance and intelligence gathering, as well as combat search and rescue operations.
The advanced technology of the AT-6TH reflects the Royal Thai Air Force’s vision, as it is one of the air force's high-performance aviation assets.
Key features include a control system similar to the F-16 fighter jet, facilitating pilot adaptation. The cockpit is fully digital with multi-function displays, enabling rapid and precise mission management. It is equipped with a long-range laser designator and a real-time video transmission system from air to ground. The Datalink Link-TH tactical communication system enhances operational safety and efficiency.
The first group of eight Thai pilots underwent AT-6TH training in the United States, covering flight operations, weapons use, and maintenance. They were certified as flight instructors and test pilots.
The Air Force signed a contract to purchase eight AT-6TH aircraft in 2021 and an additional four in 2022, totaling 12 units. The AT-6TH integrates with Link-TH, a Thai-developed Datalink system, also used by Gripen C/D, Alphajet, F-5TH fighters, and T-50TH trainer aircraft.