The Navy conducted realistic war games amid global tensions and regional conflicts, with the Navy Commander emphasizing, "We do not want war, but if we fight, we must win."
Today (18 Mar 2026 GMT+7) Admiral Phairoj Fuangjan, Commander of the Royal Thai Navy (RTN), presided over the opening ceremony of the Navy's 2026 annual exercise at the Headquarters of the Marine Corps Command, Krom Luang Chumphon Camp, Sattahip District, Chonburi Province. He delivered a message to participating personnel stating that this year's exercise is not just routine training but takes place amid unprecedented global tensions and complexities, including conflicts with neighboring countries. Therefore, the Navy must not be complacent.
Previously, combat readiness has been crucial in successfully accomplishing missions, including defending national sovereignty and providing disaster relief. This 2026 Navy exercise will be an important part of the Navy’s Year of Readiness policy, warranting special focus.
Both Command Post Exercises (CPX) and Field Training Exercises (FTX) will be conducted. The exercise controllers are urged to create realistic scenarios that challenge participating units to maximize the capabilities of personnel and equipment. All trainees are encouraged to commit fully, proving that the Royal Thai Navy is combat-ready and prepared to face all forms of threats.
“This year’s exercise takes place amid global tensions and complexities unlike any before. We live in an era of conflict that could erupt at any moment, including challenges to Thailand’s sovereignty from neighboring countries. This exercise demonstrates that the Navy is ready to confront all threats. We do not want war, but when we fight, we must win.”
After the opening ceremony, the Commander observed military operations involving attacks, enemy clearance, and territorial seizure using bomb-dropping attack drones, supported by coordinated naval gunfire from ships offshore, lasting about 25 minutes.
The Commander also viewed a static display of weaponry and equipment from various naval units, including unmanned aerial vehicles developed by the Navy’s Research and Development Office, communication signal relay systems from the Naval Communications Technology and Information Department, special operations teams (Clear-Culet unit) from the Special Warfare Command with their operational weapons, support vessels used in military exercises simulating naval gunfire support from the Fleet Command, and weaponry from the Chanthaburi and Trat Border Defense Command (BBDC).
The Navy’s annual exercise is its highest priority training, conducted in line with policy guidelines. “This is the Year of Readiness for the Navy. Exercises simulate real combat because when actual combat occurs, we must win.” The training includes military planning, command order formulation, employing incident response plans, and guidelines for Navy force utilization, operational command, and testing combat readiness. Exercises cover various branches and unconventional operations to ensure applicability in real situations.
