Defence Council approves plan to downsize RTA and cut costs
The Thai Defence Council has approved a significant white paper, marking a strategic shift to downsize the Royal Thai Army (RTA) and cut back on weapon expenses.
This decision, made during the council’s final meeting of the year, aligns with the strategic plan for 2026 to 2037, which Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai presented to set the military’s future course.
Phumtham emphasised that while various agencies under the Defence Ministry have their strategic plans, they are not at odds with one another. To successfully downsize the military, these agencies must unify under a single national strategy.
The council also took note of a proposed amendment to the Defence Act, initially drafted by former defence minister Sutin Klungsang. Phumtham mentioned that this bill, which has garnered feedback, will undergo revisions before being resubmitted to the Defence Council. It will subsequently be sent to the Cabinet for approval and finally to the House.
Responsibility for overseeing these developments was assigned to the deputy defence minister and the defence permanent secretary. Phumtham noted that discussions also covered the global situation, with a consensus that the country should retain a neutral stance while acting in its national interest.
Topics such as voluntary enlistment and disaster rescue operations were also covered during the meeting. The Defence Ministry spokesperson, Major General Thanathip Sawangsaeng, stated that the white paper offers a framework for enhancing military preparedness and cohesion. This framework will guide each unit in creating plans and projects, fostering a better understanding of the military’s role.
“The armed forces have started the downsizing process, aiming for a 5% reduction in personnel by 2027.”
The ministry plans to implement an early retirement programme to reduce the number of generals in specialist roles and operational level officers by 50% by 2028. The plan also includes adjusting personnel numbers from the ministry’s educational institutions, aligning conscript numbers with mission needs and threats, and substituting military personnel in combat and support roles with voluntary recruits, reported Bangkok Post.
