27-3-2024 (BANGKOK) In a bid to resolve the long-running saga surrounding Thailand’s controversial submarine procurement deal, Defence Minister Sutin Klungsang has undertaken an urgent trip to China to hold make-or-break talks with the submarine builder, according to a source.
The high-stakes visit, which saw Sutin accompanied by Navy chief Admiral Adung Phan-iam, commenced on Monday evening with the pair excusing themselves from this week’s Cabinet meeting in Bangkok before jetting off to the Chinese shipyards.
Their mission? To find a definitive solution to the impasse that has plagued the multi-billion baht project after Germany withdrew export approval for supplying diesel engines compatible with the vessel’s weapon systems – a decision rooted in stringent laws restricting military-use components.
“Sutin and the Navy chief wanted to hold final talks with the shipbuilder before they seek an ultimate Cabinet decision on the impasse over the controversial submarine procurement project,” the source disclosed.
With the original German engine proposition rendered unviable, Chinese manufacturers proposed domestically-produced alternatives as a compromise. However, this suggestion met firm opposition from Thailand’s naval top brass.
In a final gambit to salvage the long-touted military investment, the Royal Thai Navy had floated acquiring a more costly frigate instead of the submarine. But that contingency stalled after cost assessments revealed an additional 1 billion baht premium.
As Minister Sutin and Admiral Adung lobby their Chinese counterparts for an 11th hour breakthrough, the saga has become emblematic of Thailand’s struggle to modernize its aging maritime forces amid budgetary constraints and evolving international regulations around military exports.
While the Defence Minister endeavors to untangle the knot in Beijing, Government Spokesperson Chai Wacharonke confirmed on Tuesday that no major arms deals – including a separate 19 billion baht fighter jet procurement – had been tabled for Cabinet deliberation this week.
