UK defence technology group Cohort has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with South Korean shipbuilder Hanwha Ocean during the Defense & Security 2025 exhibition in Bangkok, Thailand.
The agreement outlines a framework for the two firms to provide technologies for the Royal Thai Navy’s (RTN) planned second phase of its frigate acquisition programme, which is scheduled for 2026.
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Under the MoU, Cohort will provide a suite of naval defence capabilities. These include sonar systems, torpedo launcher systems, surveillance systems, targeting and fire-control systems, along with communications management equipment.
Cohort’s maritime technologies, including satellite communications terminals currently used by navies internationally, are part of the offering intended for the Royal Thai Navy project.
Cohort chief executive Andy Thomis said: “This agreement marks a key milestone in our growing relationship with Hanwha Ocean and an important step in strengthening Cohort’s international partnerships.
“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.”
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By GlobalDataHanwha Ocean has already delivered the His Thai Majesty’s Ship (HTMS) Bhumibol Adulyadej, the first-phase frigate, to the RTN in 2018. The frigate was commissioned into service in 2019.
In February 2023, the RTN sought Bt15bn ($460m) over a five-year period to support its new frigate acquisition plan.
The Thai government has given its approval in principle. The Ministry of Defence included the request within a budget proposal for the 2024 fiscal year, which began on 1 October 2023.
Hanwha Ocean naval ship business president Charlie SC (Sung-chul) EOH said: “We are delighted to collaborate with the Cohort Group on the second Phase frigate programme. By combining Hanwha Ocean’s advanced shipbuilding expertise with Cohort’s proven weapon and sensor technologies, we aim to deliver a larger frigate with enhanced lethality, a legendary asset that will further strengthen the Royal Thai Navy’s combat readiness and maritime power”.
Thailand’s military spending is projected to reach a CAGR of 5.8% during 2025-2029, reaching $5.9bn, according to recent data available from analytics company GlobalData.
The 2024 acquisition budget of $1.2bn is expected to grow to $1.7bn in 2029.
