File photo courtesy of Thai PBS World

 

In a surprising twist to a military procurement saga, Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai has denied knowledge of any plans to deliver a Chinese-commissioned, partly-built submarine to Cambodia.

 

The statement comes amidst rising tensions due to Germany's decision not to supply China with submarine engines intended for the vessel. The situation leaves Thailand in an awkward predicament with a submarine project in limbo.

 

Germany’s refusal is rooted in its NATO commitments, preventing them from exporting military-grade equipment to China. This development not only underscores ongoing geopolitical tensions but also sparks doubts about the submarine project’s future.

 

"Germany reaffirmed its good relationship with Thailand, but clearly stated its NATO obligations," Phumtham reported after meeting with his German counterpart.

 

The submarine in question is the Chinese-built S26T, for which Thailand has already forked out over 70% of the total payment. With no engines to power it, Thailand faces a dilemma.

 

Phumtham mentioned that they are awaiting a formal response from Germany but noted that an unofficial reply has already been communicated, setting the stage for Thailand to consider its next steps.

 

As for the project's future, Phumtham suggests a reassessment is inevitable. "Proceeding under the current stance may no longer be an option. We need to look at the contract afresh, evaluate the feasibility, and see if continuing makes sense," he explained.

 

This situation certainly places Thailand in a critical position, requiring strategic deliberation to move forward.

 

In conclusion, the unresolved issue of the submarine's power plant adds another layer of complexity to the defence relationship between Thailand and its international partners.

 

The situation remains fluid, with no definitive solution in sight and implications that span beyond military assets to involve wider diplomatic and economic considerations.

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Nation 2025-05-17

 

 

Better would be to gift it to Laos...

8 hours ago, webfact said:

The submarine in question is the Chinese-built S26T, for which Thailand has already forked out over 70% of the total payment. With no engines to power it, Thailand faces a dilemma.

Dilemma?? If it wasn't for the skimming that has already occurred and the under-the-table payments that can't be returned, it would be easy to void the contract, as China has already breached the agreement.

Hey if the sub is given away....Then all the dirty hands in the sub deal are all the sudden a lot cleaner.....And that pesky paper trail is not so pesky any more...

Perfect for Cambodia.

 

My first submarine was powered by baking soda too. 

 

...and the Gulf of Thailand is no shallower and less suitable for submarine operations than my bathtub was at the time either.

22 hours ago, Emdog said:

Better would be to gift it to Laos...

Good one. But even better would be to gift it to Germany. 😂

Do they not need it only for photo opportunities?

On 5/17/2025 at 1:21 AM, webfact said:

The submarine in question is the Chinese-built S26T, for which Thailand has already forked out over 70% of the total payment. With no engines to power it, Thailand faces a dilemma.

 

A good lesson for Thailand how not to do business with China.

The Curse of the Thai Submariners continues since the Manhattan Rebellion.

 

There was a good reason there were no submarines during the reign of Rama 9.

 

 

And there are no other countries that can make those engines ?

The US or Koreans ? Could help with the trade deficit.

On 5/17/2025 at 7:21 AM, webfact said:

Germany’s refusal is rooted in its NATO commitments, preventing them from exporting military-grade equipment to China.

 

Nothingburger.

 

These are oldfangled, obsolete engines, which China already produces under license from the German manufacturer.  In fact, the Chinese manufacturer has already made improvements to the original design.

 

They can't get them from Germany, as the German manufactured ended production 'bout 5 years ago.

 

The only differences for Thailand if they accept the Chinese engines is that they get a slightly better version under a new label.

 

Pakistan already has a fleet of these subs powered by the Chinese engines.  If Thailand is concerned, just ask India.