“Big Dul” toured Thai-made military equipment, ordered the Army's drones upgraded to international standards, and pledged to continue “Big Lek's” energy-saving policies.
On 6 Apr 2026 GMT+7, Lieutenant General Adul Boonthamcharoen, Minister of Defense, visited and received a briefing on operations at the Defense Technology Institute (DTI). This marked his first visit to an affiliated agency after assuming office, aiming to monitor progress in developing military equipment and new innovations aligned with global changes.
The event displayed key military equipment developed domestically or under procurement, including tactical robots, bomb disposal robots, multi-barrel rocket systems, and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) certified by the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand. Lieutenant General Adul showed special interest in the UAV training center, inquiring about knowledge application during past border conflicts. He also proposed integrating it with the Army’s “Phoenix Squadron,” which has trained over 400 military pilots, to expand usage for security and disaster relief operations.
The Defense Minister emphasized the government's policy for the military to achieve international-level self-reliance, noting that the Defense Technology Institute currently researches and develops effective munitions and drones that are operationally viable, reducing reliance solely on foreign technology.
He also addressed energy crisis management in line with the Prime Minister's policy, confirming the Defense Ministry will follow the groundwork laid by former Defense Minister General Natthaphon Nakpanit, particularly on energy-saving measures and encouraging suitable units to implement work-from-home arrangements. Regarding rising oil prices potentially affecting military logistics, Lieutenant General Adul said he would take time to carefully review details and assess impacts before deciding on further countermeasures.