Gunfire rattled across the deck of the French gunboat Comte as the crew continued to push their way further into Bangkok and closer to their target: the Grand Palace. Thai naval boats intent on putting a stop to the enemy's advance rushed down the Chao Phraya River loaded with canons, ready to stop the French at any cost. Then after a three-month stalemate, Thailand finally gave in to French demands and on Oct 13, 1893 the Franco-Siamese Treaty was signed. The events of the Franco-Siamese war were the last notable time that Thailand took part in naval warfare.
We can all sleep soundly knowing the navy is out there patrolling the Gulf with submarines that will ensure our safety.
Skip forward 118 years. The Thai navy is currently in the process of ensuring that we never suffer such a humiliating defeat in Thai territory again. After 60 years of planning, the navy may finally get the weapons of their dreams _ a fleet of six shiny, new submarines.
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About the author
- Writer: Arglit Boonyai
- Position: Multimedia Editor
