Sky’s the limit: RTAF aims to reach new heights with space plans

The Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) is looking to take Thailand’s defences to new heights. Plans are underway for a bold rebranding as the Royal Thai Air Force and Space alongside the creation of a new unit aimed at safeguarding Thailand’s air and space interests.

This strategic move, announced by RTAF spokesperson Air Marshal Prapas Sornjaidee yesterday, November 19, highlights Thailand’s ambitions to secure its presence in both the sky and beyond.

In line with national policy, the RTAF’s expansion is set to bolster the protection of assets valued at an estimated 29 billion baht annually and support 1.6 million jobs in telecommunications, broadcasting, and related industries.

“Our space assets are integral to economic and national security.”

The newly planned National Air and Space Interests Coordination Centre will be embedded within the Air Force Operation Centre, under the supervision of the Chief of the Air Staff, who will act as a liaison with national and international agencies.

The RTAF emphasised that this initiative would not require extra personnel or added salaries; instead, existing staff will be rotated from the Space Operations Centre, Internal Security Operations Command, and other related bodies to manage the unit.

To implement the changes, the RTAF is drafting amendments to related legislation, which they hope to submit to the National Defence Council in the 2025 fiscal year. Afterwards, the amendments will require parliamentary approval and royal endorsement before publication in the Royal Gazette.

If all goes to plan, Thailand’s newly rebranded air force will be ready to defend the skies and space within three years, setting the nation on course for a future that goes beyond Earth’s boundaries, reported The Nation.

In related news, the proposal to transform the RTAF’s Dhupatemiya golf course in Pathum Thani into a public park requires an in-depth study, as the location plays a critical role in the military’s strategic operations, stated Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai.