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Phalanx weapons system failures raise concerns over new frigate deal

Today 19:02Key points summarised by AI

The Thai Navy faces intense scrutiny for awarding a 16.7-billion-baht frigate contract to South Korean supplier Hanwha Ocean, despite persistent failures of the Phalanx Close-In Weapon System (CIWS) on its existing Hanwha-built frigate, HTMS Bhumibol Adulyadej.
The Phalanx CIWS on HTMS Bhumibol Adulyadej has been non-functional since 2019, with prolonged, unsuccessful repair attempts revealing it's an obsolete model lacking spare parts, raising questions about the Navy's procurement due diligence.
A dispute over responsibility for the Phalanx failures exists between Hanwha Ocean and the American manufacturer, prompting the House Military Affairs Committee to demand documents and threaten an audit if clarity isn't provided.
The Industry for National Defence and Security Association (INDSA) has requested an Ombudsman investigation into the transparency of the new frigate deal, questioning bidder treatment, lifetime maintenance, and a significant increase in offset value.
This controversy unfolds as the Royal Thai Navy urgently needs new frigates to replace its aging fleet (only four currently, with three being 30+ years old or nearing decommissioning) to protect vast and economically vital maritime interests.

Today 19:51Key points summarised by AI

Hua Hin experiences a surge in domestic tourism as COVID-19 restrictions ease, with hotels launching promotions to attract Thai visitors during the upcoming high season.
The Thai Hotels Association recommends postponing the 'Hua Hin Recharge' scheme, which aims to welcome foreign tourists without quarantine from October 1, until December to ensure higher vaccination rates and a better influx of European visitors.
Proposed conditions for reopening include expanding the 'Hua Hin Recharge' to cover entire provinces (Prachuap Khiri Khan and Phetchaburi) and requiring 80-100% of the local population, including tourists and staff, to be fully vaccinated.
Economic projections estimate up to 1 billion baht monthly from approved domestic tourism programs and a potential 1.2 billion baht over three months from the 'Hua Hin Recharge' scheme.