Picture courtesy of Bangkokpost 

 

The Royal Thai Navy has launched a committee to review plans to purchase two new frigates, with cabinet approval expected once the process concludes. The selection of private contractors is underway following evaluations of frigate models at the Defence & Security exhibition in Nonthaburi.

 

Navy Commander-in-Chief Adm Pairote Fuengchan stated that the project will include an offset policy to ensure domestic construction generates economic benefits for the public. “Building frigates must serve the people, not just the navy. The navy’s role is to maintain and operate the ships, but the benefits must return to the people,” he said.

 

A selection committee, chaired by Adm Korawit Chayaratthee, commander of the Royal Thai Fleet, has been appointed to assess ship designs and draft the Terms of Reference. Once the procurement package for the two vessels is finalised, the navy will seek cabinet approval for both funding and authorisation.

 

Reports of interest in Turkish frigates have been addressed by Adm Pairote, who noted that the navy is reviewing options from multiple countries. Turkey has three shipbuilders designs, under consideration, while South Korea has presented designs from Ocean, Hyundai and SK.

 

The Bangkok Post reported that the project aims to balance national security needs with economic benefits, promoting domestic shipbuilding and employment while enhancing the navy’s operational capabilities. The committee is expected to provide recommendations ahead of cabinet submission.

 

Key Takeaways

 

• The Thai Navy is reviewing plans to procure two frigates with domestic construction benefits.

• A committee chaired by Adm Korawit Chayaratthee will evaluate designs and draft procurement guidelines.

• Options from Turkey and South Korea are under consideration to ensure competitive and efficient acquisition.

 

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 Adapted  by  Asean  Now from Bangkokpost 2025-11-23

 

 

23 hours ago, Georgealbert said:

Reports of interest in Turkish frigates have been addressed by Adm Pairote, who noted that the navy is reviewing options from multiple countries. Turkey has three shipbuilders designs, under consideration, while South Korea has presented designs from Ocean, Hyundai and SK.

A good chance the order would be fulfilled, unlike the submarine fiasco.

5 minutes ago, hotchilli said:

A good chance the order would be fulfilled, unlike the submarine fiasco.

The way that Thailand frigates keep sinking they might be mistaken for submarines.

3 minutes ago, Srikcir said:

The way that Thailand frigates keep sinking they might be mistaken for submarines.

Ouchhhhh