Bangkok: The Commander of the Royal Thai Navy has reiterated the progress of a project aiming to purchase two frigates in the fiscal year 2026, emphasizing the strategic importance of this acquisition. This announcement comes amid ongoing discussions regarding the Navy's procurement plans and the promotion of domestic industries.
According to Thai News Agency, Admiral Chirapol Wongwit, the Royal Thai Navy commander, discussed the Navy's intent to build new vessels to replace aging ones, with a focus on utilizing domestic industries for medium-sized ships. He highlighted that the procurement process for additional frigates awaits approval from the House of Representatives, following proposals made through the Ministry of Defense. The Navy's objective is to build frigate-class ships domestically, enhancing maintenance efficiency by procuring multiple ships of the same class.
Admiral Wongwit emphasized that the Navy plans to purchase two frigates due to the urgent need and maintenance considerations. The Navy aims to negotiate an offset policy to align with national and organizational needs. Mr. Wiroj Lakkhanaadisorn, a party-list MP of the Prachachon Party, supports this initiative, understanding the strategic necessity and advocating for domestic industry promotion.
Regarding the submarine procurement project, Admiral Wongwit stated that Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense Mr. Phumtham Wechayachai has received detailed responses on two critical matters. These include whether Germany will supply submarine engines to Thailand and feedback from Pakistan's use of Chinese-made engines. Although the 2026 budget lacks allocations for submarines, discussions continue to clarify contract terms before budget considerations.
Admiral Wongwit addressed recent social media rumors about project cancellations or transferring submarines to neighboring countries, urging the public to rely on official Navy communications for accurate information. These rumors, he noted, are often speculative and not reflective of the Navy's actual plans.