Thailand Seeking Frigates

February 02,2025

By:ThemeSpiral.com

THAILAND is reportedly seeking to acquire as many as four frigates for the Royal Thai Navy (RTN). The plans were reported to be for two frigates per year for the fiscal years of 2026 and 2027. With a fleet of four frigates at this time, the RTN is expecting a need for eight frigates to maintain its presence in the Gulf of Thailand and Andaman Sea.

On January 18, Commander-in-Chief of the RTN Admiral Jirapol Wongwi stated that the procurement for two frigates is currently in the budgeting phase. The planned acquisition requires Cabinet approval before being forwarded to Parliament for consideration. The decision will rest with Deputy Prime Minister and Defense Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, who will evaluate the proposal.

“I believe the public and the government alike will agree on the need for these frigates to strengthen naval capabilities and safeguard maritime sovereignty. Our naval power has been declining year by year. Without reinforcements, neighbouring countries may no longer respect our position,” he stated. When asked if he was confident the procurement would pass all parliamentary stages, Adm Jirapol said it depends on lawmakers’ understanding of the Navy’s roles and responsibilities. We are making every effort to communicate our position clearly and are optimistic that the proposal will ultimately be approved.”

The 12th Defense & Security 2025 is set to be held this November 10-13 at Bangkok’s IMPACT Exhibition Centre in Muang Thong Thani. Defense & Security has been one of the longest running defence exhibitions since its inception two decades ago, gathering regional leaders and global industry powerhouses.-ds/adj/dl (Pix:RTN)

Source:

https://adj.com.my/2025/02/02/thailand-seeking-frigates/