Thailand is set to provide the Pakistan Army with 100 units of the First Win 4×4 armored vehicles

Thailand has recently entered into an agreement with Pakistan to provide the Pakistan Army with 100 First Win 4×4 armored vehicles. This arrangement follows a Memorandum of Understanding signed in September of the previous year in Islamabad, wherein Thailand’s state-owned Thai Defence Industry Company (TDI) will deliver the vehicles to Pakistan’s Heavy Industries Taxila (HIT). TDI is a collaborative venture between the Defence Technology Institute (DTI) and Chaiseri.

According to a statement from the Thai Armed Forces headquarters, the Memorandum of Understanding includes a clause for technology transfer, which will allow Thailand to share production technology with HIT. This provision may enable HIT to eventually manufacture the First Win 4×4 vehicles domestically in Pakistan. Initially, Chaiseri will produce the first batch of these vehicles at its facility in Thailand, after which HIT will assume the majority of production responsibilities in Pakistan.

The Thai Armed Forces emphasized that this agreement to supply First Win 4×4 armored vehicles highlights the advanced capabilities of Thailand’s armored vehicle technology, contributing to the development of the Pakistan Army. While the specific variant of the First Win 4×4 vehicles being supplied has not yet been disclosed, it is known that the First Win 4×4 is a Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicle designed to endure various battlefield threats, including landmines and Improvised Explosive Devices (IEDs). The First Win 4×4 has been in production since 2009, developed by Chaiseri Metal & Rubber Company.

In 2015, Malaysia became a client of Chaiseri, investing RM140 million in 20 units of the First Win 4×4 vehicles, which the Malaysian Army has designated as “Lipan Bara.” The Malaysian Army continues to utilize the Lipan Bara, with components manufactured in partnership with Deftech.

This vehicle boasts key features such as a two-ton payload capacity, a 300-horsepower engine, and armaments including the M134D-H Gatling Gun (7.62mm), a laser warning system, and 76mm grenade launchers.

The Lipan Bara variant complies with NATO STANAG 4569 protection standards, although certain additional protective features are classified. With a weight of 11.5 tons, the First Win 4×4 can transport over two tons of various loads and can be outfitted with a range of weapon systems, from 7.62mm machine guns to 12.7mm heavy machine guns.

Technical Specifications of the First Win Armored Vehicle (Thailand-Made)

1. Overview:

The First Win is a multifunctional 4×4 armored vehicle created by Chaiseri Defense, a leading defense manufacturer in Thailand. It is designed to assist military operations, internal security forces, and peacekeeping efforts in high-risk areas, ensuring maximum operational adaptability and survivability.

2. Dimensions and Weight:

Length: 6.0 meters
Width: 2.4 meters
Height: 2.65 meters (excluding weapon systems)
Curb Weight: 9 tons
Gross Vehicle Weight: 11 tons

3. Engine and Performance:

Engine Type: Turbocharged diesel
Horsepower: 300 hp
Transmission: 6-speed automatic
Maximum Speed: 100 km/h (on-road)
Operational Range: Up to 600 km (varies with payload and terrain)

4. Crew Capacity:

Crew: 2 (driver and commander)
Passenger Capacity: 8–10 personnel (dependent on configuration)

5. Protection:

Armor Level:

STANAG 4569 Level 2: Offers ballistic defense against 7.62 mm armor-piercing incendiary (API) rounds, shrapnel from artillery shells, and threats from light anti-vehicle mines.
Upgradable Protection: Modular armor kits are available to enhance protection against evolving battlefield threats.

Protective Features:

Fully armored monocoque hull
V-hull design to reduce the impact of mine blasts and improvised explosive devices (IEDs)
Automatic fire suppression system to improve crew safety

6. Armament:

Fitted with either a remote-controlled weapon station (RCWS) or a manually operated turret
Compatible with various weapon systems, including 7.62 mm or 12.7 mm machine guns and 40 mm automatic grenade launchers

7. Mobility:

Drive Configuration: 4×4 all-wheel drive

Off-Road Capabilities:

Gradient climbing ability: up to 60%
Side slope traversal: up to 30%
Fording depth: up to 1.0 meter without prior preparation

8. Additional Features:

– Military-grade air conditioning system designed for harsh environments
– Optional 360-degree surveillance camera system
– Integrated tactical communication systems
– Ergonomically designed interior to maximize crew comfort during extended operations

The First Win has been extensively utilized by the Royal Thai Armed Forces and has been exported to multiple countries for military and internal security operations. Its versatility is further improved by a range of specialized variants, including armored ambulances, command vehicles, and logistics support platforms.