The Army announced a 2026 conscription quota of 84,380 soldiers, with 22,062 having applied online and 62,318 to be drafted. Monthly salary is 11,000 baht. They oversee disciplinary measures and have lifted restrictions on victims of mule accounts. They also acknowledged updating the Army's Facebook page communication to keep up with current trends and the modern era.
On 23 Mar 2026 at the Army Headquarters auditorium, the Army Command announced the conscription selection process for active duty soldiers for the year 2026, scheduled from 1 to 12 Apr 2026. Major General Sompol Palathai, Deputy Commander of the Territorial Defense Command, stated that Thai men required to undergo conscription selection are those aged exactly 21, born in 2005 CE. Additional conscripts aged 22 to 29 (born 1997–2004 CE) who have not yet served or were deferred or had incomplete selection results from previous years must also participate.
This year, 477,435 conscripts must undergo selection, with a quota of 84,380 for active duty service. So far, 22,062 have applied online, leaving 62,318 to be drafted.
The Army requires 42,926 soldiers, the Navy 11,101, the Air Force 6,704, the Office of the Permanent Secretary of Defense 770, and other branches 817.
This year, selection venues are chosen based on suitability to ensure a smooth and convenient process. There are expedited channels for conscripts who are ill, disabled, or requesting active duty service, as well as those seeking deferment, to facilitate and streamline the selection procedures.
It was confirmed that the selection process will be transparent and verifiable, following the policy of the Army Commander.
Major General Kriangkai Prasongsukarn, Army Medical Department Director, added that the 37 Army hospitals will integrate comprehensive healthcare systems for new soldiers, addressing both physical and mental health. Key information for families and society includes pre-selection health checks, such as for gender identity issues, which can be addressed at military and state hospitals with psychiatrists.
During medical examinations at selection sites, the Army has appointed medical committees from Army hospitals to ensure fairness and transparency. A War Room has been established, with the Army Headquarters Medical Chief providing consultation for decision-making.
Additionally, mental health readiness of trainers is assessed. Nationwide training has been provided on trainer health, with evaluations of facilities and equipment. Trainers’ mental well-being is monitored to ensure those responsible for new conscripts are mentally fit and maintain appropriate attitudes.
Individualized care based on differences is emphasized. The Army recognizes that each new soldier has different capabilities and physical conditions, so detailed physical examinations are conducted before training starts. Four readiness levels are assigned: normal, low risk, moderate risk, and high risk, using color codes to help trainers adjust training accordingly. New soldiers receive a personal QR code containing their data for timely medical access in emergencies. The Army also prioritizes gender diversity by providing accommodations and restrooms that ensure comfort and align with current living standards.
Major General Therdsak Wongchan, Army Finance Department Director, stated that new active duty soldiers receive a monthly salary of 1,630 baht, a living allowance of 6,490 baht, and a daily allowance of 96 baht, totaling 11,000 baht. After deducting 70 baht per day for three meals, the net pay is 8,900 baht.
For soldiers involved with mule accounts—whether as victims or otherwise—the Army will assist in securing their rightful benefits, including salary, temporary living allowances, or daily stipends. Coordination with related agencies such as the police, banks, and the Ministry of Defense is underway to open new accounts for all soldiers so they can receive benefits properly. Normal banking procedures cannot process these cases, but all new Army conscripts will be granted full entitled benefits.
The Army emphasized that financial rights protection is a top priority. Orders have been issued to all units to strictly follow regulations: 1. Prohibit collecting passbooks and ATM cards; 2. Prohibit cash payments, requiring payment through bank deposits; 3. Prohibit deductions for debts other than government debts from soldiers’ salaries.
Meanwhile, Major General Kasem Pinkaeo, Army Inspector General, stated that excessive violence is forbidden in all cases. Harmful punishments to life or body are strictly prohibited. If incidents occur, facts must be promptly and transparently investigated. Violations will result in disciplinary and criminal penalties. Punishments must comply with laws and Army regulations strictly, with clear and transparent procedures. Punishments are prohibited after 6 p.m.
Major General Thitipan Thanacharo, Army Training Department Director, said that new soldiers will receive 22 high-quality, standardized items, including custom-measured field uniforms, sports pants, towels, shoes, and bedding.
Army spokesperson Major General Winthai Suwaree discussed publicity for the 2026 conscription selection, especially the highly popular Facebook page “Army in the Trend.” He said there have been discussions to update communication to match modern times, giving creative freedom to the team. This includes integrating trending topics like the Hyrox fitness competition, popular cartoons and animations such as One Piece, and humor to promote the process, making conscription less intimidating and more appealing to the public and conscripts.
The Army spokesperson also said that changes in the conscription selection process this year reflect adjustments across all involved agencies. Communication teams must adapt to better inform the public about the selection process. The Army is committed to improving the conscripts’ living conditions and ensuring personnel are honored, as they serve the nation.