Bangkok: Armed Forces commanders gathered to discuss the 2026 fiscal year budget for the Ministry of Defense, which amounts to 204,434 million baht. The meeting, part of a Special Committee's deliberations on the Budget Act draft, included key military leaders who detailed the financial needs and strategic plans of their respective branches.
According to Thai News Agency, the meeting featured prominent figures such as General Snitchanok Sangkhachan, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defense; General Songwit Noonpakdee, Supreme Commander of the Armed Forces; General Pana Klaewplodtook, Commander of the Royal Thai Army; Admiral Chirapol Wongwit, Commander of the Royal Thai Navy; and Air Chief Marshal Panpakdee Pattanakul, Commander of the Royal Thai Air Force. Each leader presented the budgetary allocations and strategic priorities for their respective services.
Air Chief Marshal Panphakdee Pattanakul addressed the committee before outlining the Royal Thai Air Force's budget for 2026. He emphasized the importance of aligning procurement with the Royal Thai Air Force White Paper, which prioritizes value and necessity while fostering the domestic defense industry. The Air Force is keen on bolstering local production and advancing technological expertise within the country.
A significant component of the Air Force's plan is the procurement of a new squadron of fighter jets, identified as the Gripen model. The budget for this acquisition is earmarked for 2025. The Air Force is preparing to present this proposal to the Cabinet in July, seeking approval to sign a contract with Sweden. The Defense Minister has expressed readiness to endorse and approve the contract once it reaches his desk.