Turkey Eyes Thai Frigate Deal, Offers Full Technology Transfer

BANGKOK — June 29, 2026 Türkiye’s ambassador to Thailand said Ankara hopes the Royal Thai Navy will consider Turkish frigate proposals as part of efforts to strengthen bilateral defense ties, while stressing that Türkiye respects Thailand’s procurement decision and is applying no pressure. Speaking at the Turkish Embassy on Sathorn Road, Ambassador Jülide Kayihan said Türkiye is seeking closer military cooperation with Thailand after expanding defense ties with Indonesia and Malaysia. She said Türkiye’s defense industry manufactures a broad range of military equipment, including frigates, tanks, armored vehicles, fighter aircraft, integrated air defense systems, drones and missiles. The equipment has been deployed by the Turkish military and meets NATO standards, as Türkiye is a member of the alliance. The ambassador said Türkiye is aware that the Royal Thai Navy is evaluating proposals for a new frigate program. While Ankara hopes Turkish companies will be given the opportunity to cooperate with the Thai military, it fully respects Thailand’s decision-making process. One of the bidders, Turkish state-owned defense company ASFAT, has offered to build the frigates entirely in Thailand, along with transferring the ship design license. The proposal includes full technology transfer, allowing Thailand to independently construct future vessels of the same class, as well as an offset investment program. Another Turkish bidder, TAIS, has proposed its I-Class frigate, which is currently in service with the Turkish Navy. Indonesia has also recently ordered two I-Class frigates.