- May 4, 2021
- 2,251
| To: <Mikael Odenberg, Secretary of Defense of Sweden> Connor From: <Sarabun@mod.mail.go.th> Subject: Procurement of SEA Giraffe AMB (PESA) Radar Security Type: Maximum Secure Encrypted Method - Protect by NIA Counter-Intelligence Service - The decryption method is sent separately via fax |
Dear Secretary Odenberg
Allow me to express my unpretentious congratulation on your new position in the office of the Swedish Defense Secretary. My Ministry and the Thai Armed Forces have always approved of our cooperation on the security issue and military exchange with the Armed Forces of Sweden. Since our first assistance in Humanitarian efforts in South Africa, we are proud to say that Sweden has given us an enormous opportunity to challenge our standing army to compete with the world standard. We are faithful guardians and soldiers of the people of the Republic, determined to achieve the greater good of the civilian. As a military officer and a holder of the General title of the Royal Thai Army, I am greatly honored to discuss with the man at the nation's forefront in the security administration, whom their citizen can rest assured and trust his leading.
In recent years, Thailand has experienced and participated in numerous military engagements. An antagonist enemy fleet attacked our International Airport and many military sites in late 2000. We were engaged in the most significant major military conflict since Iran–Iraq War between 1980 and 1988. The Forth Indochina War between 2000 to 2001 brought suffering to over a million and almost 120,000 casualties, with 600,000 soldiers participating. Despite our dominance over land and aerial warfare, we were unprepared in naval warfare due to our lagging in maritime detection technology. Many storms have been happening in our waters lately, and we need a new method to support and surveillance our coastal waters and EEZ.
We want to acquire 4 SEA Giraffe AMB (PESA) Radars from Sweden for the Royal Thai Coastal Surveillance System. The SEA Giraffe AMB PESA system employs cutting-edge radar technology to detect and track targets with extreme precision and accuracy. It is a useful tool for surveillance and reconnaissance operations in coastal seas because of its capability. The system has a long detection range, making it possible to identify targets at a distance. With early identification and monitoring of potential threats made possible by this range, the Thai Navy has more time to react and take the necessary measures. The SEA Giraffe AMB PESA system can function in harsh locations and inclement weather, including places with high levels of electromagnetic interference. Because of this, it may be relied upon for coastal surveillance even under challenging weather or environmental circumstances. The system is designed for carrying out a wide range of functions, including navigation, air and surface surveillance, and weapon control. This makes it a flexible tool for the Thai Navy, enabling them to interface with the Royal Thai Air Defense System and employ the system for a variety of different operations. The SEA Giraffe AMB PESA system is capable of offering the Thai Navy enhanced situational awareness in local coastal waters due to its sophisticated radar capabilities and real-time data processing. This can assist them in identifying possible dangers and taking the necessary precautions to protect their marine territory's security and sovereignty.
The Royal Thai Navy is a world-class naval force with the international standard capacity to possess technology from Sweden. The Royal Thai Navy (RTN) has a strong and reliable track record in operating and maintaining military technology, including radar systems. The RTN's well-trained and professional workforce has extensive experience and expertise in maritime security and surveillance operations, making them a trusted partner in ensuring national security and protecting the country's territorial waters. The RTN is committed to investing in the training and support necessary to maintain the highest level of readiness and reliability in its military capabilities. This includes established training programs for personnel involved in operating and maintaining the SEA Giraffe AMB PESA system, as well as collaborations with other countries to enhance their military capabilities through joint exercises and equipment sharing. Through these efforts, the RTN has built a reputation for reliability and success in operating and maintaining military equipment. Their commitment to training and support, as well as their collaborative partnerships, demonstrate their unwavering dedication to national security and the protection of their maritime territory.
In addition to the benefits of the SEA Giraffe AMB PESA system for our maritime security needs, Thailand is also willing to offer incentives to Sweden for the sale of this equipment. Specifically, the Thai Defense Ministry is willing to prioritize military access to Thailand for Swedish forces, providing them with a valuable base of operations in Southeast Asia. Additionally, we are willing to offer Sweden access to shared military infrastructure in Thailand, including airfields, ports, and training facilities. This will enable Sweden to expand its military presence in the region and enhance its capabilities for joint military operations with Thailand and other countries in the region. These incentives will not only benefit Sweden but also enhance the military cooperation and strategic partnership between our two countries. The Thai Defense Ministry is committed to building strong relationships with our international partners and working together to maintain regional stability and security.
Thank you for your time and consideration in reviewing our proposal for the acquisition of the SEA Giraffe AMB (PESA) Radars. We appreciate the continued support and cooperation between our two nations and look forward to the opportunity to strengthen our military partnership further. If you require any additional information or have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us.
Sincerely
Chavalit Yongchaiyudh
Minister of Defense
Republic of Thailand