Report Thai Armed Forces Showcase Strength in Annual Training Exercise

[Georgealbert]

 

Pictures courtesy of Amarin.

 

In a show of military power and coordination, the Thai Armed Forces held their annual training exercise, CALFEX, at the Royal Thai Navy’s training ground in Chanthaburi province. The exercise, which took place on 28th April, saw participation from the Royal Thai Army, Navy, and Air Force, demonstrating a unified and formidable force.

 

Admiral Jiraphol Wongwits, Commander of the Royal Thai Navy, led the inspection of the exercise alongside senior officers. The CALFEX (Combined Arms Live Fire Exercise) is a key component of the Thai Navy’s 2025 field training programme, designed to test both personnel readiness and the operational capabilities of various military units.

 

The exercise, held at the Royal Thai Navy’s Training Field No. 16 in Chanthakhem, involved live-fire operations and simulated combat situations, where military personnel tested their skills in securing and holding strategic locations, with support from heavy artillery and airstrikes.

A variety of military equipment was showcased during the exercise, including amphibious assault vehicles (AAVs), armoured personnel carriers, tanks, and aircraft. The Navy deployed amphibious tanks, including six AAVs, three VN16 amphibious assault vehicles, and several armoured personnel carriers (BTR-3E1). Additionally, the Army contributed four M1126 Stryker armoured vehicles, while the Air Force provided two F-16 fighter jets for air support and suppression of enemy forces.

 

The Navy’s air capabilities were also on full display, with Dornier maritime patrol aircraft and T-337 reconnaissance planes providing close air support and surveillance, while EC-645 helicopters were used for medical evacuation operations.

 

As part of the exercise, a variety of air-ground coordination techniques were tested, with a focus on joint operations among the Army, Navy, and Air Force. The results of the training will help to assess and improve the effectiveness of joint military strategies and inform future military planning, particularly in national defence scenarios.

 

This high-profile exercise not only demonstrated the strength and readiness of Thailand’s military forces but also underscored the importance of inter-service cooperation and the continuous development of the country’s defensive capabilities.

 

 

  Adapted by Asean Now from Amarin 2025-04-29.