This website uses cookies to manage authentication, navigation, and other functions. By using our website, you agree that we can place these types of cookies on your device.

Read More

Thailand Confirms Budget to Procure First of Three S26T Submarine from China

Posted On
a
Naval Forces News - Thailand
 
 
 
Thailand Confirms Budget to Procure First of Three S26T Submarine from China
 
The Thai government has approved the purchase of a submarine from China for $ 380 million, Thai officials said on Wednesday. Last year, the government did not approve the sale. Upon approval from the cabinet, Thailand will order the submarine under a government-to-government deal. The total cost of the S26T submarine program which calls for three units will be USD $1.02 billion.
     
S 26T Thailand type 039A PLAN ChinaPLAN's Type 039A Diesel Electric Submarine (SSK). The S26T is reportedly based on this type.
     
Local media The Bangkok Post reported that the S26T “has a submerged displacement of 2,600 tons and is equipped with an air-independent propulsion [AIP] system.”

The S26T is reportedly to be based on the Type 039A SSK of the People's Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) also refered as Yuan class. It is a fairly recent design first commissioned in 2008 with a displacement of 3,600 tons and a length of 75 meters. It may feature an air-independent propulsion (AIP) system as an auxiliary system to a regular diesel-electric power.

Admiral Jumpol Loompikanon, spokesman for the Royal Thai Navy, said the submarine would allow the Navy to study tactics and how to protect Thailand from submarine threats.