Thailand’s China submarine deal for relations, not defense, say experts

FILE - Thailand's Prime Minister Srettha Thavisin talks to media during a news conference at the government house in Bangkok, April 10, 2024.

Thailand's government appears set to complete a deal for a Chinese-built diesel-electric attack submarine — a one-off purchase first negotiated under its previous military government — but experts say at this point, motivation for the deal may more political than military.