Bangkok Post : Nod for used submarines Breakingnews >
The Defence Council on Monday approved the navy's plan to buy six used Type U206A submarines from Germany for 7.7 billion baht.
Col Thanathip Sawangsawng, the defence spokesman, said Adm Kamthorn Poomhiran, the navy chief, spent one hour and 40 minutes to explain the acquisition plan to the council, chaired by Defence Minister Prawit Wongsuwon.
Council members were satisfied with the reasons given by the navy - to protection the country's interests in the sea, to increase the potential of submarines of Asean, and to keep the military power in the region in balance.
If the acquisition plan is also approved by the cabinet, the submarines are expected to be put in commission in mid-2013.
Col Thanathip said the plan in detail will be presented to the Defence Council for next month. A special conference may also be held for the press.
The Defence Ministry will push for cabinet approval of the plan as soon as possible, he added.
Writer:
Wassana Nanuam
Position: Reporter