Thai defence ministry to resolve submarine procurement issue soon

The Thai Ministry of Defense is currently on the cusp of resolving its submarine procurement quandary within the next fortnight, with indications pointing towards the adoption of a Chinese-engine solution, as per a statement from a Navy official. At present, a panel is meticulously scrutinizing the prevailing predicament concerning the Navy’s procurement of a Chinese submarine. This panel has been tasked with deliberating whether to prolong the existing contract by an additional 1,217 days subsequent to receiving correspondence from the Office of the Attorney-General.

Sutin Klungsang, the Defense Minister, has disclosed that the panel is engaged in a comprehensive evaluation of all pertinent details to arrive at a definitive decision. The review of the procurement plan is multifaceted, encompassing three principal considerations: the Navy’s imperative for a submarine, the advantages accruable to the nation, and the ramifications for bilateral relations.

Current Status and Evaluation

The genesis of the procurement plan dates back to the preceding administration helmed by General Prayut Chan-o-cha, who concurrently served as Prime Minister and Defense Minister from 2014 onwards. The initial contractual agreement stipulated that the partially constructed Chinese Yuan-class S26T submarine would be outfitted with a German-manufactured MTU 396 engine. However, Germany rebuffed the sale of these engines to China on account of their classification as military/defense items, as reported by the Bangkok Post.

Denial of German Engine Sale

This denial stemmed from the European Union’s directive in 1989 mandating the enforcement of an arms embargo against China. Consequently, the China Shipbuilding & Offshore International Co (CSOC) proffered the Chinese-built CHD620 engine as a viable alternative.

In a related development, the Thai Cabinet is poised to render a final verdict pertaining to the acquisition of a Chinese-manufactured submarine, as articulated by Defense Minister Sutin Klungsang. This decision follows the approval by the Office of the Attorney-General (OAG) for the utilization of a Chinese engine for the submarine, coupled with a recommendation to extend the contract. Sutin is anticipated to engage in further deliberations on this matter with Royal Thai Navy (RTN) Chief Adm Adung Phan-iam upon his return from overseas.