He said the submarine purchase plan was not new. Navy chief, Adm Na Areenich, will visit China to sign the contract for the submarine procurement in May. As a result, public awareness and participation in security issues is needed," Gen Prawit was quoted as saying. Gen Prawit also ordered security agencies to closely monitor the tense situation on the Korean Peninsula which might affect Thailand if war erupts. The navy and defence minister defended their decision, saying the budget for the submarine purchase was not additional money sought from the government.

Source: Bangkok Post April 24, 2017 21:11 UTC