The "secret" cabinet approval of this controversial deal has changed the focus of criticism from the appropriateness of the submarine purchase to the transparency of the procurement. Imagine how bad it would be if military procurement lacks transparency. Some have said such a massive budget earmarked to buy submarines should be used for projects with real public benefits instead. If the navy opts not to buy submarines, it will spend the money to buy other military supplies for sure. With the government apparently trying to keep the submarine procurement out of public discourse from the start, how can the public trust the procedure?

Source: Bangkok Post April 25, 2017 21:33 UTC