The hiccup in the planned salvage operations for the US-built HTMS Sukhothai of the Royal Thai Navy (RTN) serves as a stark lesson for Thailand. It underscores the need for greater prudence in navigating security issues, especially amid escalating geopolitical conflicts and power struggles among superpowers.
The Joint United States Military Advisory Group Thailand (Jusmagthai) recently issued a second warning to the RTN regarding salvage operations for the HTMS Sukhothai, which sank in the Gulf of Thailand in 2022.
The first letter was submitted in January 2023, but the RTN had yet to tell the US about the incident.
Despite the ship sinking on Dec 18, 2022, the RTN had failed to respond to US concerns. The US intervention came after reports surfaced that the RTN intended to select a Thai-China joint venture for the salvage operation.
Jusmagthai cautioned the RTN that non-compliance could violate deals on foreign military sales between Thailand and the US. In its defence, the navy justified its plan to involve a Chinese-affiliated company, citing the need to adhere to the original schedule set for April.
Consequently, the navy identified a bid winner for the salvage operation, pending a budget approval of approximately 199 million baht.
Ironically, the navy's operations have been delayed for over a year since the ship sank despite the fact that there were five crew members missing. It raises questions about the navy's awareness and preparedness in addressing security concerns amid global tensions.
In the end, the navy dropped its initial plan and turned to the US for the salvage operation. That prompts a big question mark about why this course of action was not pursued right after the ship sank.
Given the heightened geopolitical conflicts and trade wars among world superpowers, the Thai government, particularly the armed forces, should be more vigilant in safeguarding national interests.
While Thailand traditionally follows a policy of neutrality and non-alignment, recent events highlight challenges in maintaining a delicate balance amid superpower competition.
The involvement of a Chinese firm in salvaging a US frigate should have anticipated US opposition, considering the existing Thai-US deal on the salvage operation.
The incident raises concerns about Thailand's international reputation and the impact of its decisions on diplomatic relations. Striking a balance between economic partnerships with both the US and China is crucial, and faux pas might induce big repercussions.
This incident serves as a valuable lesson for state agencies when making decisions on international issues amid escalating geopolitical conflicts. The government needs to derive lessons from the HTMS Sukhothai salvage operation issue to enhance its decision-making processes and diplomatic strategies.
It needs to conduct a comprehensive review of foreign policies, ensuring they are aligned with current realities. Consider factors such as regional conflicts, superpower dynamics and economic ties to update policies to better navigate foreign relations.
Above all, the navy is obligated to provide the public with a transparent explanation of its original plan. The question arises as to why assistance from the US was not sought from the outset, especially given the agreement between both parties to address such incidents. The navy must fulfil its commitment to the public by disclosing the findings of the HTMS Sukhothai incident, as promised.