The Royal Thai Air Force has announced measures to tighten energy use due to the Middle East crisis, prioritizing essential missions and readiness while managing increased oil prices. Under Defense Minister Gen. Nattaphon Narkphanit's directive, the Air Force, led by Air Chief Marshal Sakesan Kantha, will conserve fuel for non-essential activities, ensuring operations linked to national security remain unaffected.

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Air Chief Marshal Prapas Sornchaidee noted that fuel would be rationed for support functions, while crucial operations, including pilot training and emergency preparedness, maintain top priority. Despite the crisis's impact on global fuel markets, Thailand has expanded its oil procurement to stabilize its energy supply. The Air Force assures that it will manage reserves carefully to sustain national defense capabilities.

Prapas urged the public to rely on official information, cautioning against potentially misleading online content, possibly AI-generated. This caution comes as part of a broader Defense Ministry strategy to reduce energy consumption during the crisis, which also includes cutting back on air-conditioner use and unnecessary travel while preserving mission capabilities.

Despite the ongoing crisis, the multinational exercise Cope Tiger 2026 will proceed as planned from March 15-27, 2026. The exercise, involving the United States and Singapore air forces, will enhance pilot experience and strengthen international coordination under the theme “Together We Fly, Stronger We Stand.” Increased security measures will be in place to protect participants, though routine military drills are not an indication of Thailand being involved in external conflicts, reported The Nation.

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  Adapted by ASEAN Now · The Nation · 09 Mar 2026

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And what about the other branches of the Thai military?