K9 USAR & Army Engineers Test Drones For Rescues in Thailand

K9 USAR (Urban Search and Rescue) Thailand has conducted a joint training exercise with the Development Military Command under the Royal Thai Armed Forces Headquarters to improve the country’s search and rescue capabilities in hard-to-reach areas.

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The exercise focused on the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), or drones, alongside search and rescue operations. The initiative forms part of efforts to develop innovation and strengthen Thailand’s capacity to respond to future disaster situations.

According to K9 USAR Thailand, the training was designed to study and enhance search and rescue capabilities in areas that are difficult to access. The exercise also aimed to support preparations for future missions involving assistance to disaster victims.

Pictures courtesy of Komchadluek

The collaboration brings together the expertise of K9 USAR Thailand and military personnel to explore how drone technology can support search and rescue operations. The use of UAVs may help teams assess terrain, locate victims and improve operational efficiency in challenging environments.

K9 USAR Thailand said the exercise marks only the beginning of a broader effort to develop knowledge, technology and joint operational procedures. The organisation noted that further study, testing and continued development will be required to build on the initial findings.

The project forms part of ongoing efforts to raise the effectiveness of Thailand’s search and rescue capabilities. Officials involved in the programme are expected to continue evaluating and refining operational approaches as the work progresses.

Komchadluek reported that further training, testing and research are expected as the participating organisations continue to develop technologies and operational methods aimed at improving disaster response and rescue operations across Thailand.

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Adapted by ASEAN Now Komchadluek 26 June 2026

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