Black Hawks, subs, and Gripens top Bt31bn defense budget

11 Sept 01:02 Key points summarised by AI

Thailand's government allocates Bt31 billion from the 2026 fiscal budget for arms procurement, with the Army, Navy, and Air Force receiving Bt12.5 billion, Bt9.89 billion, and Bt8.7 billion respectively.
The Army plans to acquire three new and two used US-made Black Hawk helicopters, totaling approximately Bt7.4 billion.
The Navy is proceeding with the procurement of three Chinese-made Yuan-class submarines, amending the contract to use Chinese CHD-620 engines and facing a delivery delay until late 2028. It also plans to purchase one frigate from China for Bt17.5 billion.
The Air Force has signed a contract for four Swedish Gripen E/F fighter jets, costing Bt19.5 billion with delivery expected within four years, as part of a larger ten-year program to acquire 12 Gripen fighters.

Public expects most Kla Tham MPs to back Cabinet in censure vote, NIDA Poll finds

Yesterday 12:30 Key points summarised by AI

A recent NIDA poll indicates that a plurality of the public (30.38%) anticipates Kla Tham Party MPs will vote to support all 18 cabinet ministers targeted in the upcoming no-confidence debate.
Respondents believe the Ministry of Interior (38.78%) and the Prime Minister’s Office (21.37%) will face the toughest questioning during the censure debate.
Economic issues, particularly alleged incompetence in addressing problems (34.27%) and the rising cost of living (25.88%), are cited as the primary concerns for the government during the censure.
The public holds high expectations for the Opposition's case, with 45.65% believing clear, concrete evidence will be presented against all 18 ministers, and 41.22% expecting substantial evidence against specific ministers.