In an unforeseen development during the Royal Thai Navy's 117th-anniversary celebrations, Admiral Adung Phan-iam shared significant details about the engines set for Thailand's upcoming Chinese submarine acquisition. This revelation has brought to light a crucial aspect of the eagerly awaited Thai Navy Submarine Project.
Contrary to initial assumptions, the engine proposed by China for the Yuan-class 226T submarine is not an in-house creation but rather a licensed variant of the esteemed German MTU396 engine, designated as CHD620. The intricacies of this engine disclosure surfaced amidst challenges, including Germany's initial reluctance to directly supply the MTU 396 powerplant for the submarine sale to Thailand.
Admiral Adung's disclosure further revealed that China successfully secured licensing from Germany's MTU, paving the way for the production of a modified version, the CHD620. This variant is specifically tailored for Thailand's naval requirements, underscoring the resilience of the Thai Navy in overcoming obstacles related to engine alternatives due to Germany's restrictions on supplying the specified MTU engine for Chinese military vessels.
The journey toward this engine substitution has been enduring, with Admiral Adung emphasizing the sustained efforts made by himself and his predecessor. This shift in engine specifications aligns seamlessly with the terms of the submarine contract, marking a significant milestone in the evolution of Thailand's naval capabilities.
The challenges faced by the Thai Navy were not limited to engine-related hurdles; discussions arose about potentially suspending the entire submarine project in favor of acquiring a Chinese frigate. However, with half of the submarine already in the construction phase, Admiral Adung indicated potential complications associated with such a policy shift.
Looking ahead, the S26T submarine, a derivative of the PLAN's Type 039B Yuan-class vessel, is poised to become a game-changer for Thailand. Anticipated to boast a displacement of about 2,600 tons, the submarine promises remarkable capabilities, including a maximum speed of 18 knots and an underwater endurance lasting up to 20 days. Its formidable armament includes provisions for up to 16 torpedoes and around 30 mines, marking a substantial enhancement to Thailand's naval prowess once operational.
The revelation surrounding the Thai Navy Submarine Project reflects not only a technological breakthrough but also the unwavering determination of the Royal Thai Navy to secure advanced naval capabilities. This article delves into the intricacies of this project, providing valuable insights into Thailand's naval advancements and the transformative impact of the Thai Navy Submarine Project.
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Naval Force