Hanwha Ocean Named Preferred Bidder for Thailand’s Next-Generation Frigate Program

Hanwha Ocean has been selected as the preferred bidder for Thailand's next-generation frigate program, bolstering the Korean shipbuilder's presence in Southeast Asia's expanding naval defense sector. The program mandates the construction of a single frigate and integrated logistics support, with a 16.73 billion baht (approximately 683.3 billion won) budget set aside for the project.

The selection precedes the final contract stage, where Hanwha Ocean and the Royal Thai Navy will negotiate technical specifications, construction requirements, and other terms. The final agreement will hinge on the outcome of these discussions.

The Royal Thai Navy's choice of Hanwha Ocean is partly attributed to the company's proven track record, including the successful delivery of HTMS Bhumibol Adulyadej, the Thai Navy's first frigate in its earlier program, in 2018. Hanwha Ocean's extensive shipbuilding expertise and comprehension of the Thai Navy's operational needs have bolstered its competitiveness against international defense firms, such as those from Spain, Singapore, and Turkey, participating in the tender.

This selection also underscores the strengthening defense collaboration between South Korea and Thailand. The two nations have consistently engaged in military exchanges, including naval consultations, cruise training fleet port visits by the Republic of Korea Navy, and participation in the multinational Cobra Gold military exercise. The South Korean Ministry of National Defense, the Defense Acquisition Program Administration, and the Republic of Korea Navy provided support throughout the bidding process.

Hanwha Ocean aims to leverage this project to deepen its long-term maritime defense partnership with Thailand while expanding its footprint in the global surface combatant market. During forthcoming negotiations, the company will strive to establish contract terms that balance the Thai Navy's operational demands with project execution stability and cost efficiency.

The Thai program, according to Hanwha Ocean, presents a crucial chance to showcase its competitiveness in naval shipbuilding and pursue further opportunities in Southeast Asia and other international markets.