Defence technology company Cohort and South Korean shipbuilder Hanwha Ocean have entered into a memorandum of understanding (MOU) regarding the delivery of defence technologies to address the requirements of the Royal Thai Navy's second phase frigate acquisition programme.
The MOU covers the supply of Cohort’s naval defence systems such as sonar systems, torpedo launcher systems, surveillance, targeting and fire-control systems as well as communications management.
"By combining the expertise and technology from across the Cohort Group with Hanwha Ocean’s, we can deliver naval platforms that enhance operational effectiveness and, through unique modular and open architecture design, future-proof vessels to support long-term capability and security," said Andy Thomis, Chief Executive of Cohort.
The Royal Thai Navy's second-phase frigate is expected to enter service in 2026. Although the navy's procurement plans included the acquisition of two frigates, only the first ship is covered by the 2026 budget approved by the Thai cabinet.
Hanwha Ocean, then operating as Daewoo Shipbuilding and Marine Engineering, had earlier delivered HTMS Bhumibol Adulyadej, the Royal Thai Navy's first-phase frigate, in 2018.
