Royal Thai Army to consider buying arms from Russia including T-90 MBT 52902162

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Defence & Security News - Russia, Thailand
 
Royal Thai Army to consider buying arms from Russia including T-90 MBT
Thailand is pursuing closer ties – and possible arms deals, particularly tanks – with Russia following the Moscow visit of Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Prawit Wongsuwon, an army source reported.
     
     

On the table, officials from both countries say, are wide-ranging talks on trade and security cooperation, as Russia seeks to develop its position as an Asian power.

Thai media have reported that Thailand is seeking to buy dozens of Russian T-90 tanks to replace part of its ageing US-made fleet.

In an interview, Thai Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Prawit Wongsuwan said no decision had been made on the tanks. But US restrictions on the sale of arms to the military-ruled country means Thailand needs to shop elsewhere for the roughly 50 tanks it needs, he said.

Thailand is currently on course to sign an agreement with Russia covering counterterrorism and is looking to buy Russian hardware, such as helicopters, for disaster response, he said.

Russia has made it clear that its approach to Thailand is part of a broader push for Asian influence.