Report Thai Submarine Deal with China Faces Corruption Claims

[webfact]

S26T submarine. Picture courtesy of China Daily

 

A Thai navy submarine project with China is embroiled in scandal, with claims of corruption and bribery linked to a mysterious civilian known only as "Bor."

 

People’s MP Rangsiman Rome has raised allegations regarding the procurement of the Yuan-class S26T submarine, originally meant to be powered by a German engine, now being replaced by a Chinese alternative.

 

He suspects that key individuals are involved in clandestine dealings and financial misconduct, which jeopardises public funds.

 

The swap from the German MTU396 to China's CHD620 engine, which remains uncertified by any global navy, has sparked major concerns.

 

Rangsiman highlighted the suspicious insistence on continuing the deal, suggesting potential kickbacks might have kept the project afloat despite its setbacks.

 

The submarine's acquisition, initiated under former navy chief Luechai Ruddit, has already seen half of its 13.5 billion baht price tag paid.

 

However, the Chinese supplier continues to delay delivery due to engine issues, leaving many questioning the project's future, reported Thai Newsroom.

 

The deal was finalised just before Luechai’s retirement, despite widespread criticism over its efficacy compared to alternatives from Germany and South Korea.

 

Now, amid growing scrutiny, Thailand’s transparency and procurement processes face heavy public examination.

 

 

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from Thai Newsroom 2025-08-09

 

[blaze master]

You don't say. 

[dinsdale]

Thailand...China...Corruption. Impossible.

[daveAustin]

lol Thailand will be on the moon by the time they get a motor in that thing. 
And yes, of course there’s corruption. Why wouldn’t there be?

[Artisi]

This must be flawed news - corruption in business dealings in Thailand, can't be true - must be a mistake. 

[sammieuk1]

So far you have managed to buy the under powered one ore model 🤔

[redwood1]

The pigs at the trough have been feasting off the submarine pie for almost 10 years now......For crying out loud the sub deal started in 2017.....

 

Folks VAST sums of money have already been stolen from the sub deal.....I would love to see this paper trail.....

 

The longer the deal is delayed the more time the pigs have to feast......So the sub deal should carry on for many many more years to come.....

 

 

 

 

 

 

[StayinThailand2much]

Corruption in Thailand?? I don't believe it!