Thailand Special Forces Choose New Rifle, Chinese-Made QBZ-195T

(DEFENCE SECURITY ASIA) — Thailand’s special forces are reported to be adopting the Chinese-manufactured QBZ-195T rifle, making it the first non-Chinese nation to do so.

According to reports from Chinese media, Thailand is the initial export market for this rifle, which will be customized to meet the specific needs of Thailand’s special forces.

Thai media also confirm that the country’s special forces will utilize the Chinese-made rifle.

The QBZ-195T, developed by the Chinese defense company Norinco, is a variant of the QBZ-191. It is chambered in 5.56x45mm NATO, allowing it to use standard ammunition within the Royal Thai Armed Forces.

This Chinese rifle is reported to offer superior performance compared to the currently used M16A4 and M4 rifles, particularly in terms of accuracy and modularity.

Thailand’s decision to diversify its small arms, which currently include firearms from the United States and Israel, reflects a strategic move to avoid reliance on a single supplier.

This ensures that the Royal Thai Armed Forces maintain versatile assets.

The adoption of the QBZ-195T is expected to enhance the capabilities of the Thai military, as the latest rifle offers advanced features tailored for combat needs.

It can be equipped with various modern accessories such as optics, lasers, and grenade launchers, thereby increasing its effectiveness in special operations.

The QBZ-195T is a modified model derived from the Type 191 rifle, adjusted to meet Thailand’s requirements.

Although its design is consistent with the Type 191, it uses the 5.56x45mm NATO caliber, significantly different from the 5.8mm caliber used in China.

Reports indicate that Thailand’s special forces have a positive view of the QBZ-195T, especially in terms of shooting accuracy and its capability to meet the military’s needs for the coming decade.

Thailand’s selection of the QBZ-195T signals a move away from traditional arms suppliers like the United States.

The Thai Army’s interest in Chinese-made rifles emerged during joint military exercises such as “Assault-2023” and “Blue Assault-2023,” which provided opportunities for both nations to exchange weapons and equipment.

Thai military personnel showed keen interest in Chinese military gear during these exercises.

With the introduction of the QBZ-195T in Thailand’s special forces, there is a possibility that the Royal Thai Armed Forces may also adopt other Chinese firearms, such as the 201 machine gun and the 20-series sniper rifles.

Should Thailand proceed with using Chinese-made firearms, it may encourage other Southeast Asian nations to shift from American and European firearms to those manufactured in China. — DSA