Thailand navy's 36 billion baht (about USD 988 million) plan to purchase three submarines from China may have to be delayed or even reviewed, navy chief Admiral Na Areenij said on Thursday.
The new navy chief insisted that submarines are a necessary capability. However, he understood that the economy is in a downturn with many limitations placed on the government in meeting the needs of people in every sector, the Bangkok Post reported.
This could affect the navy's bid for a submarine fleet, he said.
"We have to build opportunity from crisis. The navy will look to improving its knowledge, expertise and tactics. We have to increase the capability of our units under budget constraints. We may run short of funds, but we still can make improvements," Adm Na said.
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