The Prime Minister said he was unaware of the Air Force's plan to invite him on an F-16 flight, noting he will attend to listen to a briefing on the military's capabilities. He emphasized this is not a show of force, has no request to fly over the border, and added that if the military arranges it properly and safely, it is up to them.
At 11:57 a.m. on 5 August 2026 at the Government House, Prime Minister and Interior Minister Anutin Charnvirakul spoke about his scheduled visit to Wing 1 in Nakhon Ratchasima Province, including flying on an F-16 fighter jet on 14 August. He said the military will provide a briefing on security, exercises, and preparedness, but he does not yet know whether he will actually fly.
Regarding reports that the Prime Minister will fly an F-16 to survey the Thailand-Cambodia border, he exclaimed, "Oh, is that so?" He said he has not had time to review the schedule, but the main point is to observe military preparedness. The government has approved a central budget over the past 10 months to enhance military capabilities, and the military wants him to see how the approved strategies, tactics, and budget have been implemented, hence the invitation for a briefing.
When asked if this visit is a show of military strength to adversaries, the Prime Minister said it is not a display but rather a confidential meeting.
When reporters asked if he is willing to fly the F-16, Anutin said that if the military arranges it properly, complies with regulations, and ensures safety, he will leave it to them. He believes the military recognizes the government's full support for national security, which is positive. He said this will give him confidence in negotiations since talks are not just with adversaries; being prepared and strong helps achieve desired outcomes.
When asked if it is possible to fly around the border area if legal, the Prime Minister said he does not request anything. The key purpose is to attend the briefing on military capabilities. He added, "I have my own plane."
When asked if his visit to Indonesia received a grand welcome, Anutin said, "It was good."
When asked if the welcome was as grand as when three former prime ministers visited previously, Anutin laughed but did not answer.