The Thai Army has officially showcased combat drones along the Thailand-Cambodia border to prepare for any potential future clashes, with plans to increase production. The announcement came on 24 March 2026 at the Royal Manoo Task Force in Tak province, where Colonel Natthakorn Ruantip, Chief of Staff of the 4th Infantry Division and commander of the Phoenix unit, presented FPV suicide drones and bomb-dropping drones used in previous border operations. These drones are intended to enhance operational capabilities and survivability in contested areas. Get today's headlines by email Colonel Natthakorn explained that the army is training additional drone operators and have developed drones equipped with artificial intelligence (AI) to counter signal jamming and other electronic threats. The unit aims to maintain superior technology over opposing forces, ensuring drones can continue missions without interference. Funding has been fully supported, with over 500,000 baht spent on individual drone components, considered cost-effective for targeting armoured vehicles, enemy positions, and signal jammers. Picture courtesy of Naewna The Phoenix unit has trained 11 classes of drone pilots, totalling more than 400 personnel and continues to conduct joint exercises with the army, navy, marines, and police. Colonel Natthakorn emphasised that drones can be deployed immediately when ordered and are capable of tactical adaptations in the field. The drones have already been used in a 20-day border operation, demonstrating resilience even when some units were damaged or malfunctioned. In addition to combat, the drones are used in Army Region 3 for anti-scammer operations and community assistance, as neighbouring countries’ limited law enforcement coverage complicates cross-border enforcement. Continuous drone development remains necessary due to rapid technological changes, ensuring operational flexibility and stability. Naewna reported that the Thai Army plans to establish a dedicated drone command centre to coordinate responses across all army regions. Production and pilot training will continue to expand, maintaining readiness for any sudden escalation along the Thailand-Cambodia border. Join the discussion? Already a member? Adapted by ASEAN Now Naewna 26 Mar 2026
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