Turkiye has offered to build a new frigate for Thailand as the Royal Thai Navy moves forward with plans to procure another warship, adding to competition from South Korean and Chinese shipbuilders.
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According to Turkish ambassador to Thailand Julide Kayihan, a Turkish shipbuilding company is prepared to establish a dockyard in Thailand to construct the frigate locally. The proposal also includes technology transfers and would not impose design patent restrictions on any future shipbuilding projects undertaken in Thailand.
The offer comes as the Thai navy seeks initial approval from Defence Undersecretary Gen. Tharapong Malakham next month for its planned frigate procurement. The project is now expected to attract bids from shipbuilders in Turkiye, South Korea and China.
Turkiye has expanded its defence manufacturing capabilities in recent years and is reported to produce a broad range of modern military equipment, including tanks, armoured personnel carriers, drones, missiles, jet fighters and frigates. The ambassador highlighted the country’s ability to support Thailand’s naval modernisation through local construction and technology sharing.
Indonesia, another ASEAN member state, has recently ordered two Turkish-built frigates, according to the Bangkok-based ambassador. The deal reflects growing regional interest in Turkish naval technology and defence exports.
Thailand currently operates a mixed fleet sourced from several countries. Its navy deploys the South Korean-built Bhumibol Adulyadej-class frigate, the Chinese-built Naresuan-class frigates, the Chinese-built Chao Phraya-class frigates and the Spanish-built aircraft carrier Chakri Naruebet. The fleet is also due to expand with the delivery of a Chinese-built Matchanu-class submarine, which is scheduled to enter service in 2029.
The proposed frigate procurement represents another step in Thailand’s long-term naval modernisation programme. Approval from the Defence Ministry would allow the procurement process to proceed, after which competing international shipbuilders are expected to submit their proposals.
The ThaiNewsRoom reported that the Turkish offer, with its emphasis on local construction and technology transfer, adds another option for Thai defence planners as they evaluate competing bids before selecting a contractor.
Pictures courtesy of TNR
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Adapted by ASEAN Now Thainewsroom 1 July 2026