Russia’s commander visits to strengthen military ties with Thailand
Russian Army’s Commander in Chief Colonel General Oleg Salyukov wrapped up his three-day visit to Thailand on Friday, a visit which aimed to strengthen military relations between the two countries.
Salyukov arrived in Bangkok on Wednesday and met several high ranking Thai Defense officials and the army.
Russian Ambassador to Thailand Kirill Barsky told news website Russia Beyond the Headlines (RBTH) that both countries are determined to take results-oriented steps for strengthening military interaction.
“Thai military forces will participate in the International Army Games (in Russia) for the first time, while Russian Naval command representatives will be welcomed at the military parade dedicated to the 50th anniversary of the establishment of ASEAN,” Barsky said.
In May 2016 when Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha made a trip to Russia, the two countries signed an intergovernmental deal on military cooperation.
The same day Russian Minister of Industry Denis Manturov announced that Moscow would supply two Sukhoi Superjet (SSJ-100) aircraft for the Thai Air Force.
Thailand has been interested in Russian aircraft since the mid-2000s. In October 2008 Bangkok bought several Russian Mi-17V5 helicopters and since then there have been discussions on ordering more.
In February 2017 Rostec state corporation's international cooperation head Viktor Kladov said that Russia plans to deliver four military transport Mi-17V5 helicopters to Thailand
“There are additional plans on conducting joint military exercises and sending Thai officers to study in Russian military institutions,” Barsky told RBTH, adding that these were “confidence-building measures.”