Navy chief declares 2026 a ‘year of combat readiness’, orders study to convert HTMS Chakri Naruebet into UXV carrier
Thailand’s navy chief says the service will enhance combat preparedness in 2026, exploring upgrades to HTMS Chakri Naruebet as a base for unmanned systems while reinforcing artillery along the Thai-Cambodian border.
Admiral Pairoj Fueangchan, Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Navy, presided over a religious merit-making ceremony on Thursday to mark the 119th Navy Day at Thonburi Palace.
Admiral Pairoj reiterated that over the last 119 years, naval technology and organisational capability have advanced significantly. He reaffirmed that 2026 will be designated as the Navy’s “year of combat readiness”, noting that readiness relies on four pillars: personnel, materiel, tactics, and management.
The Navy chief said he has instructed the Commander of the Royal Thai Fleet to study the feasibility of upgrading HTMS Chakri Naruebet to serve as a UXV platform, meaning a carrier base for UAVs, USVs and UUVs.
The study will determine the required modifications and procurement needs.
“If the study shows we need 24 UAVs, then we will begin planning accordingly. We know warfare and technology are changing, and unmanned systems allow us to operate with fewer resources,” he said.
Admiral Pairoj also stressed that traditional naval vessels remain vital:
“Warships are still necessary—they are platforms that allow us to enter operational areas and maintain presence nearby. Whether surface ships or submarines, they remain crucial. But we will integrate unmanned aerial and maritime systems into ships, as well as into land combat units at platoon level, including UAVs, drones and anti-drone capabilities for safer patrols.”
When asked about the readiness of the Chanthaburi-Trat Border Defence Command amid the Thailand-Cambodia tension, Admiral Pairoj said all forces remain fully deployed since Operation Trad Pikat Phai Ree, with units that had been withdrawn now returned to position.
He confirmed that Schiebel drones and other naval UAVs supporting reconnaissance have already been deployed in the area.
Regarding artillery reinforcement, he said:
“Previously, without any disputes, we deployed lightly. But once a dispute arose, we reinforced to full strength—with one artillery company per province, comprising 155mm and 105mm batteries. This is not for aggression but to defend Thai sovereignty.”
The navy chief said all measures are closely coordinated with the First and Second Army Areas, emphasising joint operations:
“When we move, all three regional commands must move together.”
