Thai Navy's Submarine Plans Stalled Pending Feasibility Study

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File photo for reference only. Source: Wikipedia

 

In a development that has left the Thai naval brass treading water, the proposed acquisition of a Chinese-built submarine remains in limbo as Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai announced that a "viability study" is still underway.

 

This long-anticipated project, valued at 12.4 billion Thai Baht, concerns the procurement of a Yuan-class S26T submarine. Originally slated to feature a high-performance German-made MTU396 engine, the plan now includes a Chinese-made CHD620 engine due to unavailability issues.

 

The Defence Minister's announcement came in response to an inquiry from the navy’s top commander, Adm. Jiarpon Wongwit, who had been seeking clarity from Phumtham on the current status of the submarine project.

 

This conversation highlights ongoing uncertainty, especially since amendments have been proposed to the original purchase contract to accommodate the engine switch.

 

Phumtham, a new appointee to the Ministry of Defence, emphasized the importance of conducting a thorough "viability study" to ensure the decision aligns with Thailand's best interests.

 

The minister's careful stance reflects the still nascent stage of his tenure, despite taking over from the former defence minister Sutin Khlangsang, who had been involved in earlier discussions around this and similar defence procurements.

 

In the backdrop of this deliberation, the navy has been on edge. The current stalling points to deeper strategic considerations, particularly given that the S26T model in question mimics the Soviet-era Kilo-class submarines.

The budding relationship between Thailand and its Chinese counterparts in military technology purchases adds an intriguing angle to the narrative.

 

In a move that perhaps signalled a shift, predecessor Sutin Khlangsang had suggested the navy might pivot to acquiring a frigate instead of the problematic submarine.

 

This proposal was met with swift rejection by naval leaders, indicating a firm commitment within the navy to see the submarine project come to fruition, despite its hurdles.

 

The continuing ambiguity, compounded by the defence minister’s measured approach, leaves the submariners without a clear course.

 

The delay in finalising the decision has strategic implications, as this would mark Thailand’s first such purchase in over six decades.

 

As the study progresses and the high-stakes discussions unfold, the maritime watchers and defence analysts remain keen observers.

 

This situation underscores the nuanced intersection between military needs, international relations, and domestic governance, capturing attention both within Thailand and among its global partners.

 

The outcome of this deliberation could redefine the trajectory of Thailand's naval capabilities for years to come, reported Thai Newsroom.

 

-- 2024-11-28