A Thai military officer has been awarded the prestigious International Sword at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in the United Kingdom, marking a significant achievement for Thailand’s armed forces. Second Lieutenant Rawich Wanitchayakorn, a graduate of Class 60 of the Armed Forces Academies Preparatory School and Class 71 of the Chulachomklao Royal Military Academy, received the honour upon completing the 44-week officer training programme. The award recognises the best performing international cadet in the intake.
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The International Sword is the highest distinction granted to an International Officer Cadet at Sandhurst. It is awarded to the individual who demonstrates outstanding leadership, physical and mental resilience, and exemplary attitude throughout the training period. The accolade is presented during the Sovereign’s Parade, the official graduation ceremony for cadets.
The award is supported by the Ministry of Defence of Kuwait in memory of Sheikh Ali Al Sabah, a former Kuwaiti defence minister. Each year, cadets from multiple countries, including Thailand, attend Sandhurst, making the competition for the award highly competitive. Winning the International Sword is widely regarded as a mark of exceptional capability and leadership on a global military stage.
The achievement highlights the capabilities of Thai military personnel in international training environments and reinforces the country’s reputation for producing skilled officers. It also underscores the importance of international military education and cooperation, with Sandhurst serving as a key institution for officer training worldwide.
Separately, Hun Manet, Deputy Prime Minister of Cambodia, publicly congratulated his son, Hun Chan Panha Both, the grandson of Senate President Hun Sen, for graduating from the same academy. In a social media post, he expressed pride in his son’s accomplishment, stating that the achievement would prepare him for future success.
The recognition of both graduates reflects the continued participation of Southeast Asian countries in elite international military training programmes. Such achievements are likely to strengthen professional ties and mutual respect among regional armed forces.
Naewna reported that Second Lieutenant Rawich Wanitchayakorn is expected to continue his military career in Thailand, bringing with him the leadership skills and experience gained at Sandhurst. His success may also inspire future Thai cadets to pursue training opportunities at leading global military institutions.
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Adapted by ASEAN Now Naewna 12 Apr 2026
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