Navy Drills UAV Assaults in Sattahip

The Royal Thai Navy has intensified its annual “RTN69” military exercises, with Commander-in-Chief Admiral Phairoj Fuengchan inspecting UAV-supported naval operations and amphibious assault drills in Sattahip, Chonburi. The exercises are designed to test combat readiness, modern warfare capabilities and operational coordination amid growing security concerns along Thailand’s eastern border and maritime zones.

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On 14 May 2026, Admiral Phairoj visited training operations in the upper Gulf of Thailand and at Naval Training Area No. 15 at Hat Yao in Sattahip district. The exercises formed part of the Navy’s 2026 field and maritime training programme, known as FTX, focusing on both daytime and night-time operations involving personnel, weapons systems and tactical support units.

The UAV operations tested coordination between naval forces, special operations units and unmanned aerial systems to improve surveillance, targeting and tactical support. The Navy said the drills integrated warships, aircraft and ground units into a joint operational network designed to increase efficiency in real combat scenarios.

The amphibious assault training at Hat Yao involved rapid deployment exercises by Marine task forces and tested the transport and combat readiness of naval personnel and equipment in operational conditions. Participating units included support vessels, special forces, beach assault teams, amphibious vehicles and naval aviation units operating under simulated air threat conditions.

The exercises also included medical support and casualty evacuation simulations. According to the Navy, the programme aims to improve preparedness against evolving security threats while adapting to modern military technologies and changing regional security conditions.

Admiral Phairoj said the “RTN69” exercises were intended to strengthen Thailand’s military readiness, particularly in eastern border areas and strategic maritime zones. He stated that lessons from real conflicts in 2025 had been analysed and incorporated into updated operational planning and joint-force coordination.

The Navy also tested the deployment of unmanned systems under the UXV programme, including UAVs, unmanned surface vessels (USV) and unmanned underwater vehicles (UUV). These systems were evaluated for reconnaissance, intelligence gathering, surveillance and tactical support missions.

As part of the exercise, the aircraft carrier HTMS Chakri Naruebet was assessed as a potential operational base for future UXV missions at sea. The Navy said this reflects plans to modernise maritime operations and prepare for future forms of naval warfare.

Naewna reported that the annual Royal Thai Navy exercise is regarded as the service’s most significant training event and supports its “Year of Combat Readiness” policy under the slogan: “Train as you fight, fight to win.” Officials said the programme also reinforces maritime security linked to trade routes, energy transport, tourism and disaster response operations.

Pictures courtesy of Naewna

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Adapted by ASEAN Now Naewna 17 May 2026