Politics
Royal Thai Navy Announces 16 Billion Baht Frigate Deal with Hanwha
The Royal Thai Navy has confirmed a 16 billion baht contract with South Korea's Hanwha for a new frigate, while addressing concerns regarding the procurement process.
On September 18, 2026, the Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Navy held a press conference to address the procurement of a new frigate, valued at approximately 16 billion baht, which will be constructed by the South Korean firm Hanwha. During the briefing, the Navy leadership emphasized that the selection process was transparent, explicitly denying allegations of 'spec-locking' or unfair exclusion of other potential bidders.
Furthermore, the Navy indicated plans for the potential acquisition of four additional frigates in the future to bolster maritime defense capabilities. For residents and expatriates, this development highlights ongoing shifts in Thailand’s military procurement strategy and international defense partnerships. While the current contract is confirmed, the timeline for the construction of the initial vessel and the formal approval process for the additional four ships remain subjects for future confirmation. The Navy maintains that all procedures have adhered to standard regulations, aiming to ensure the modernization of the fleet remains within the established budgetary and legal frameworks.
