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[webfact]

File photo courtesy: GVA

 

Thailand's Defence Minister, Phumtham Wechayachai, announced last night that the Navy's protracted plan to acquire a Chinese-built S26T submarine is expected to be finalised soon.

 

This long-delayed purchase from China Shipbuilding & Offshore International involves substituting the initially planned German engine with a Chinese-made one.

 

Acknowledging mixed reactions, Phumtham emphasised considering the entire Thai-Chinese diplomatic relationship alongside the submarine deal.

 

He reassured that despite challenges, the agreement, spearheaded by previous Navy leadership, would likely reach completion during his term at Thailand's defence ministry. Notably, the current purchase contract is set to lapse next month, adding urgency to the negotiations.

 

Complications arose when Navy admirals previously advocated switching from the German MTU396 engine to the Chinese-made CHD620 engine, despite the latter's lack of deployment in any global naval fleets, including China’s.

 

This choice was influenced by Germany's export restrictions on weaponry to China, restraining direct procurement.

 

Phumtham's confident assurance follows years of uncertainties clouding the submarine acquisition process, exacerbated by geopolitical factors and technological concerns.

 

The mention of steadfast moves toward conclusion suggests a strategic balancing act between defence modernisation and international relations.

 

Apart from the intergovernmental aspects, considerations around technological reliability remain pertinent, with the Chinese engine's unprecedented use in submarines being a notable concern.

 

Yet, the resolution of these issues appears critical to maintaining and potentially enhancing Thailand's naval capabilities in a changing geopolitical landscape, reported Thai Newsroom.

 

Ultimately, Phumtham's remarks underline a commitment to both advancing national defence initiatives and nuanced diplomatic engagement with China, reflecting on broader regional security dynamics.

 

 

-- 2024-10-26

 

 

 

[dinsdale]

Spot the sub.

I know subs are meant to go under water but not like this. Chinese tech at it's best.

 

Edited 33 minutes ago by dinsdale