Thai Navy selects Hanwha for frigate procurement project

The Royal Thai Navy has completed the selection process for a frigate shipbuilding project under the 2026 fiscal budget. The selection, approved by Admiral Piroj Fuangchan, Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Navy, has been forwarded through the Ministry of Defence to Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul for acknowledgment. Because the project exceeds 1 billion baht, the Prime Minister's review is a required step before the decision is sent to the Permanent Secretary of Defence for final procurement approval.

Reports indicate that Hanwha from South Korea is the leading candidate for the contract. Once the Permanent Secretary signs the approval, the six bidding companies will be notified via email. Following this, a seven-day legal window will open for companies to file appeals. The Royal Thai Navy plans to hold a press conference after the appeal period to explain the procurement process and the reasons for the selection results, allowing for public participation and inquiries.