In a saga that has more twists and turns than a Thai soap opera, Thailand’s long-running submarine drama has resurfaced in spectacular fashion. Picture this: after years of anticipation, suspense, and countless headlines, the plot thickens with a bold engine swap. The German engines are out, and Chinese ones are striding in to reclaim their place under the sea. The wait’s grown longer, but the stakes are higher than ever.
On a bustling Tuesday, August 5, amid the aromatic street food and vibrant chaos of Bangkok, Acting Prime Minister and Interior Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, with the air of a magician about to unveil his masterpiece, announced a monumental update. The Cabinet, draped in discretion as if guarding a nugget of sorcery, approved a sweeping overhaul of the tempest-tossed submarine deal with China. But what exactly did they approve? Phumtham’s lips were zipped tighter than a locked vault, nodding only to confidentiality as the magic word.
Let’s take a deep dive into this underwater drama. Out of the murky depths emerge China’s CHD620 diesel engines, proudly taking the place of the original German MTU396 engines—now as rare as a unicorn—thanks to export restrictions. Germany had decisively slammed the engine door shut in 2021, arms crossed with military concerns that froze the project faster than ice on the Mekong River.
In a scene worthy of an international thriller, this submarine story first set sail as a handshake deal in 2017, inked with the promises of naval advancement. A story of dreams, battles, and strategic maneuvers—a tale played out between the Royal Thai Navy and China Shipbuilding & Offshore International Co. Yet, like a ship marooned in the ocean, delays have haunted the project. The script just took another dramatic turn, extending the construction timeline by an eye-watering 1,217 days. Talk about a plot twist!
As we examine the nuts and bolts—or more accurately, the baht and bills—the submarine is 64% completed. The nation has already dug into its pockets for 10 out of 18 payment rounds, splashing out a cool 7.7 billion baht. Meanwhile, another 5.5 billion baht still hovers in anticipation like a final curtain call yet to be met. Rear Admiral Paraj Ratanajaipan popped the proverbial champagne, welcoming the Cabinet’s blessing. He’s confidently steering the navy to continue sailing the ship of defense capabilities—be it surface or stealth beneath the waves.
“The diesel-electric engine has passed tests rigorous enough to make anyone break a sweat,” Paraj announced, practically waving a certificate that might as well be the golden ticket from Lloyd’s Register. It promises performance that could outstrip anything the Germans might’ve supplied. The engine isn’t just some newfangled contraption; it’s already moonlighting in submarines worldwide, silently but powerfully upholding the night watch under the sea.
Still, Phumtham played the quiet strategist, snubbing inquiries about other military procurement conquests like the Royal Thai Air Force’s taste for Gripen fighter jets. The silent drumbeat of classified operations looms ever large like a fog-enshrouded battle at sea.
So, we leave this chapter with anticipation in the air, like the hush before an orchestra swells. Unclear timelines and cryptic cabinets may demand patience from this maritime tale. Yet, Thailand stands poised on the brink, ready for the day its aquatic warrior slips beneath the waves to defend the seas and perhaps, once again, stir foreign waters with new revelations.
I don’t trust these Chinese engines. What if they fail? We should have sticked with the Germans.
You have a point, but the Chinese engines have been used successfully in other submarines worldwide.
True, but the quality concerns me. Germany’s engineering is unmatched!
It’s also about politics and diplomacy. We need strong ties with China.
This submarine is a game-changer for Thailand’s naval power.
If it ever gets finished! 1217 days delay is ridiculous.
You can’t rush precision engineering!
But 4 years is too long. What kind of threats will have passed us by then?
This reminds me of Cold War naval arms races. History repeats itself.
Back then, it was all about America vs Soviets. Times have changed.
The backdrop may have changed, but the drama is just as intense.
At least CHD620 engines are high-tech marvels!
Until they need repairs. Are we ready for that challenge?
I’m more concerned about Thailand’s budget. 7.7 billion baht so far is too much.
Budgeting is always an issue, but defense is crucial.
But can’t we focus on pressing issues at home first?
Why are we bothering with submarines? Will they really protect us?
Submarines are invisible protectors, plus they’re deterrents.
Deterrents maybe. But what about other ways to ensure peace?
This submarine deal is more about status than defense, in my opinion.
Hopefully, this strengthens our regional influence. It’s getting competitive.
The Royal Thai Navy needs to modernize. This is a step in the right direction.
Why not invest in autonomous subs instead? Future proofing!
Autonomous subs are still unproven. We’re not ready for that leap.
At least Rear Admiral Paraj is positive about the engine’s performance.
Paraj has to be positive; his career might depend on it.
As long as it improves Thai defense, any submarine is beneficial.
The secrecy is concerning. What is the government hiding?
It’s all military talk, classified for a reason.
China’s role in this deal shows shifting global alliances.
Imagine if a Thai submarine becomes a global contender!
Are we going to stay reliant on foreign tech forever?
In today’s world, collaborations are necessary.
Let’s hope the project finishes before even more delays.