CHONBURI, Thailand – Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul inspected naval exercises in the Gulf of Thailand on Thursday, August 27, pledging government support to procure new weapons and replace aging fleet assets to bolster national defense. Anutin boarded the aircraft carrier HTMS Chakri Naruebet off the coast of Sattahip, Chonburi province, to observe readiness drills and demonstrations of unmanned aerial and surface vehicles (UXVs) alongside high-performance frigate operations.
Addressing reporters after the inspection, Anutin underscored the need to maintain military readiness amid regional security sensitivities. He noted that while current equipment remains operational, several naval assets are approaching retirement and require gradual replacement.
The prime minister said the government would collaborate with military leaders to evaluate procurement needs, emphasizing that strong defense capabilities serve as a vital deterrent to potential threats and protect national maritime sovereignty. (TNA)
