THREAD: "During Monday's media offensive at navy headquarters in Bangkok, the military used the number of submarines in service or being bought by neighbouring countries to substantiate its need for a strong submersible fleet." https://www.bangkokpost.com/thailand/general/1973679/navy-defends-subs-procurement-pheu-thai-vows-to-sink-it

This "catching up with the Joneses" line of argument is just about it, actually. Tracing back past statements by RTN top brass, this has been the most recurring line that's used to justify the sub purchase. 1/

Other than harping upon the point that SE Asian neighbors have subs, therefore Thailand needs these shiny toys too, there had been little offered so far to convince the domestic constituents why subs are so critical for the country's maritime defense and security interests. 2/