Politics Royal Thai Fleet on High Alert Amid Border Tensions

[Georgealbert]

 

Picture courtesy of Amarin.

 

In response to rising tensions along Thailand’s land border, the Royal Thai Navy’s principal combat force, the Royal Thai Fleet, has been placed on heightened alert. Naval officers and personnel have been instructed to prepare for potential deployment and to uphold their duty in defending the nation and its people.

 

On 5 June, Admiral Jiraphon Wongwit, Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Navy, delegated Admiral Natthaphon Diewwanich, Commander of the Royal Thai Fleet, to address naval forces aboard HTMS Chakri Naruebet at the Sattahip Naval Base. The speech was delivered in the presence of senior command officers from the army, navy and air force, who also oversaw a readiness inspection.

 

Admiral Natthaphon stressed the importance of the navy’s role in safeguarding national sovereignty during periods of uncertainty. His address was particularly relevant given recent developments surrounding the land border dispute in the Chong Bok area of Ubon Ratchathani Province. While the Thai government remains committed to peaceful negotiations in line with international law, the Royal Thai Fleet stands ready to serve as a key strategic force should deterrent operations become necessary.

 

“Our forces are fully prepared to form a long-range task force capable of proactive maritime operations. This includes establishing control of key sea routes and securing commercial and fishing vessels,” said Admiral Natthaphon. “If necessary, we can deny adversaries the use of the sea and engage hostile forces directly.”

 

He further highlighted the strength of the long-range task force, trained in both domestic and international exercises such as Cobra Gold and Blue Strike, with partner nations. The task force includes strike craft units with anti-access capabilities, and amphibious warfare elements capable of deploying Marine units for joint operations with ground forces.

 

“Operational planning must be carried out with precision,” the Admiral added. “This is not merely preparation for drills, it is preparation for potential deployment. Every ship’s captain and fleet commander must ensure the readiness of their personnel and equipment, including aviation units and special operations forces.”

 

Emphasising discipline and dedication, Admiral Natthaphon urged all naval personnel to fully commit to their responsibilities. “Use the time available for preparation wisely. We must be ready to perform our duties at full capacity the moment we receive orders.”

 

The Royal Thai Navy’s move to showcase its preparedness underlines Thailand’s commitment to peace through strength, ensuring it can support diplomatic negotiations with robust defensive capabilities.

 

 

  Adapted by Asean Now from Amarin 2025-06-06

 

 

 

 

[ozz1]

Get the subs we need them ! it's all a deflection to the economic problems and the Thaksin drama

[mikebell]

3 hours ago, Georgealbert said:

to address naval forces aboard HTMS Chakri Naruebet at the Sattahip Naval Base.

Remember this boat has never been able to move; despite its uselessness, I was not allowed to take photos of it by officers who had never heard of Google Earth.

[blaze master]

2 hours ago, ozz1 said:

Get the subs we need them ! it's all a deflection to the economic problems and the Thaksin drama

 

Give it time. They are still installing new screen doors on the subs.

[scubascuba3]

Need the navy for the Cambodian border? 

[petermik]

57 minutes ago, scubascuba3 said:

Need the navy for the Cambodian border? 

By stealth....ploughing through the paddy fields 😂

[Lacessit]

Defending the nation from whom, exactly?