Bangkok: A Royal Thai Navy spokesperson has announced that a 490 million baht overhaul of the HTMS Bhumibol Adulyadej is deemed more cost-effective than repairing the existing engines. The Prime Minister is set to inspect the naval readiness in the Gulf of Thailand, where the HTMS Bhumibol Adulyadej will participate in training exercises utilizing its gas turbine engines. The investigation into the damaged engines continues, with the Navy seeking clear evidence if human error is found to be the cause.
According to Thai News Agency, Rear Admiral Parach Rattanachaiyapan, a spokesperson for the Royal Thai Navy, provided updates on the engine issues discovered on the HTMS Bhumibol Adulyadej in 2024. The ship is undergoing replacement of two engines, costing approximately 490 million baht, to ensure its readiness for future missions. Engine damage was identified following various official duties, including overseas missions, after a malfunction led to engine shutdowns and subsequent internal damage.
An assessment determined that procuring new engines was more efficient than repairing the existing ones, prompting the budgeting for new engine purchases. The process has been ongoing for about two years, with expedited procurement and repair efforts to restore the HTMS Bhumibol Adulyadej to full operational status. The ship's gas turbine engine system remains functional, allowing it to continue missions. The Navy has used some investigation results to revise the Terms of Reference for a new frigate project.
Concerning the ship's design by a South Korean shipbuilder, the Navy has clarified that the design has been certified by the Korea Classification Institute (KR Class), South Korea's shipbuilding standards body. The Navy is investigating potential human error, requiring comprehensive evidence, including engineering, scientific, and witness testimony before making any claims for damages. The Navy acknowledges the possibility of a lack of expertise in engine maintenance due to frequent personnel rotations but awaits official investigation results.
The Royal Thai Navy confirms that the HTMS Bhumibol Adulyadej remains operational. Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul will inspect the final annual naval readiness exercise on August 27, 2026. The Prime Minister will observe the exercise from the HTMS Chakri Naruebet, anchored in the upper Gulf of Thailand, as part of the Royal Thai Navy's 2026 fiscal year exercise, scheduled for August 26-27, 2026.