China-Made Sub Deal Decision Looms

China-made sub deal decision looms

The government expects to decide soon whether it will proceed with the submarine procurement project, says Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai.

Sink or spend? Thailand nears decision on submarine deal

Sink or spend? Thailand nears decision on submarine dealLegacyThailand’s long-delayed and controversy-laden submarine deal is finally approaching crunch time — and it’s sink or spend for the Defence Ministry. Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai confirmed that a final decision on the 13.5 billion baht submarine procurement project could be made by the end of this month or in early June. The high-stakes verdict follows consultations with the Roy…

Engine Crisis Puts Thai Submarine Project in Peril Once Again

Reference picture courtesy of Defense Security Ais Thailand's ambitious submarine project has hit another snag, casting further doubt on its future. The plan to install German MTU 396 engines in China's Yuan-class submarine has floundered, as Thailand's Defence Minister, Phumtham Wechayachai, found his efforts to secure the engines thwarted by EU restrictions. These restrictions prevent the export of military equipment to China, given Ge…

Final submarine decision nears as Thai Defense Minister weighs cost, commitments, and China’s proposal

Deputy PM Phumtham says Thailand will decide by early June whether to cancel its controversial submarine deal or proceed under revised terms, after diplomatic talks with Germany, China, and Pakistan. BANGKOK, Thailand – Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense Phumtham Wechayachai has provided an update on the long-delayed submarine procurement issue, stating that his recent visit to Germany helped clarify key elements of the decision. Duri…

Phumtham hints at proceeding with Chinese submarine deal

Deputy PM Phumtham hints at proceeding with China submarine deal despite engine issues, aiming to finalise decision by late May or early June.