The Navy received reports of drones disturbing offshore drilling rigs and confirmed it is fully committed to performing its duties to maintain security and protect the nation's maritime interests to the fullest extent.
On 18 December 2025 GMT+7, in response to some media outlets reporting claims that the Navy neglected and took no action regarding the detection of unauthorized unmanned aerial vehicles disturbing the offshore drilling rigs of PTT Exploration and Production (PTTEP),
Lieutenant Commander Priyada Buasombun, Assistant Navy Spokesperson, clarified that the Navy has maintained direct communication and coordination channels with multiple oil production companies operating in the Gulf of Thailand through the 2nd Naval Area Command continuously to address all aspects of maritime security.
On 9 December, the Navy received a report from the security team at the Erawan rig that unidentified unmanned aerial vehicles had entered the drilling rig area. Upon notification, the 2nd Naval Area Command immediately dispatched aircraft to patrol the area within approximately a 10-kilometer radius of the rig to locate the launch base or origin of these drones, while closely monitoring the situation. Additionally, the 2nd Naval Area Command was informed that other rigs, such as Pilin, Satun, and Funan, also detected similar intrusions. Since 9 December 2025 GMT+7, they have continuously deployed ships and aircraft to patrol these areas.
Furthermore, the Navy has collaborated with oil company security teams to establish preliminary prevention measures and prepare for systematic support and assistance in security matters. Currently, the Navy continues its mission to assist and protect the security of drilling rigs threatened by unidentified unmanned aerial vehicles.
The Navy has maintained ongoing coordination with PTT and jointly developed security measures for key areas both at sea and on land to protect the country's energy interests. Recently, senior executives of PTT Public Company Limited confirmed that the company has continuously coordinated well with the Navy and the Maritime Security Center (MSCH) and has never issued any statements implying Navy neglect.
The Navy affirms that its duties to maintain maritime security and protect critical national infrastructure are carried out continuously, carefully, and without any negligence as alleged. It remains steadfast in its mission to ensure security and protect the nation's maritime interests to the fullest extent.