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Budget Superiority. Unmatched Power.
The TAI–Starcrest F-3 Garuda is a joint development program between Thai Aviation Industries (TAI) and Starcrest United, created to deliver a next-generation fighter tailored to Thailand’s evolving defense needs. Building on the proven SCF-32 Breech airframe, the Garuda introduces advanced avionics, expanded sensor capabilities, and a powerful twin-engine design to ensure long-term air superiority. The program will produce two distinct variants: the F-3A, a single-seat air superiority fighter designed as a loitering interceptor and missile carrier for regional dominance, and the F-3B, a tandem two-seat variant configured for strike, electronic warfare, and SEAD missions with expanded multirole potential. Together, the F-3A and F-3B provide Thailand with a flexible, future-ready fleet that balances cost-effectiveness, indigenous development, and cutting-edge Starcrest technologies.
Powerful and Deadly
The F-3 Garuda is built around raw power and advanced systems integration, giving Thailand a true force multiplier in regional air combat. Powered by two Pratt & Whitney F100 turbofan engines, the Garuda delivers high thrust, superior climb rates, and excellent loiter endurance for interception missions across Thailand’s expansive airspace. Its enlarged nose houses the Thales RBE2 AESA radar, providing long-range detection, precise tracking, and the ability to engage multiple targets simultaneously, while the Thales SPECTRA radar warning receiver (RWR) and EW suite ensure survivability against modern threats by detecting, jamming, and countering hostile systems. Armed with the versatile M61 Vulcan cannon, the Garuda’s missile suite includes the AIM-120 AMRAAM and Meteor for long-range engagements, the AIM-132 ASRAAM for high-speed close-range combat, and the IRIS-T for extreme off-boresight dogfighting capability. Together, these systems allow the F-3 Garuda to dominate in both beyond-visual-range and close-in battles, cementing it as Thailand’s next-generation air superiority and multirole platform.
Engaging Thai Power
The TAI Starcrest F-3 Garuda program represents a watershed moment for Thailand’s defense industry and strategic posture. By co-developing the aircraft with Starcrest United, Thailand not only gains access to cutting-edge technologies—such as advanced radar systems, RWR suites, and beyond-visual-range missile integration—but also secures indigenous production and technology transfer that will strengthen Thai industry for decades to come. The Garuda dramatically improves Thailand’s air power by giving the Royal Thai Air Force a true multirole fighter capable of dominating regional air superiority battles while also conducting precision strike, electronic warfare, and SEAD missions. Beyond its military advantages, the program cements Thailand’s role as a key player in the global aerospace market, opening pathways to European markets through Starcrest’s expansive partnerships. For the Thai people, the program ensures high-skilled employment, infrastructure investment, and long-term economic benefits, transforming Thailand into a regional hub for aerospace innovation and defense production.
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