Thailand has one of Southeast Asia’s highest levels of defence spending.

Thailand has one of Southeast Asia’s highest levels of defence spending, and earlier this year the country’s ‘Modernisation Plan: Vision 2026’ was announced by the Ministry of Defence (MoD). The programme has three prime objectives: to improve preparation of the Thai military; to enhance capabilities; and to modernise related structures.

Thai soldiers parade during celebrations of the Royal Thai Armed Forces Day at a military base in Bangkok, Thailand, Jan. 18, 2014. [Photo: Xinhua]

The above is in alignment with fiscal year 2017/18 and the Ministry of Defence has received a 4.16% increase in the country’s military budget - a rise to 222,436 million Baht from the previous year. The extra money will be used to increase overall defence spending which is required for Thailand’s military to increase competiveness and modernisation of the country’s Royal Armed Forces.

The recent announcement by the Royal Thai Air Force won the Cabinet’s approval to go ahead with its 3.2 billion Baht upgrade and modernisation of its fleet of 14 F-5 Tiger fighter aircraft. Under the programme four of the 14 aircraft will receive full upgrades, while 10 will undergo modernisation work focused on replacing the aircraft’s radar system.

Over the past few years, Thai Armed forces have continued their aggressive modernisation programmes, including upgrades and procurement of new Submarines, Battle Tanks, Fighter Jets, Training Aircraft, Frigates, Helicopters, APC, Radar, Hand Guns, and more.

The Modernisation Plan is clearly laid out and has received full support from the Thai Ministry of Defence and the Armed Forces. As a result DEFENSE & SECURITY 2017 will present outstanding business opportunities for defence and internal security contractors to present their latest technology direct to decision-makers. This will include senior government officials, delegations, and high ranking military officers from around the world - especially from Thailand and ASEAN.