SATTAHIP /Thailand/, November 21. /TASS/. The Russian Pacific Fleet’s corvettes Gromky, Rezky, and Hero of the Russian Federation Aldar Tsydenzhapov, along with the Pechenga supply vessel, have arrived in Thailand for a friendly visit, a TASS correspondent reports.

The Russian ships docked at Thailand’s main Sattahip Naval Base in Chonburi province. "This visit aims to highlight the longstanding relationship between our navies. More than a century ago, King Rama V visited Russia, marking the beginning of high-level diplomatic relations between our two countries, including among the militaries," said Thai naval officer Chanakan Boonwan.

The Russian Pacific Fleet ships will remain in Thailand until November 25. On Friday, Russian and Thai naval personnel will participate in a friendly football match, while Thai Navy officers and military attaches will have the chance to tour the Russian corvettes. Additionally, the two sides will hold a joint naval exercise, PASSEX, with the Bangpakong frigate representing Thailand.

This visit continues a tradition of over 160 years. The first such visit occurred in 1863 when the King of Siam (Thailand’s official name until 1932), Rama IV, warmly welcomed Russian naval personnel. The king saw the importance of strengthening ties with Russia to counter the colonial ambitions of Britain and France. As a result, Thailand successfully avoided Western colonization, a point of pride for the Thai people today, who recognize Russia’s role in preserving their sovereignty. In February 1874, another group of Russian ships arrived in Siam, followed by a visit in 1882. The March 1891 visit by Russian Crown Prince Nikolay Aleksandrovich - the future Emperor Nicholas II - greatly enhanced relations between the two nations. In May 1898, formal diplomatic relations were established.

Pacific fleet ships’ mission

The Pacific Fleet’s press service previously stated that the ships are on a mission in the Asia-Pacific region. They will conduct several drills, including practicing the detection and destruction of simulated enemy submarines, as well as training exercises focused on air defense and anti-sabotage operations at sea.