Thailand’s new air force commander has pledged to train female fighter pilots while boosting advanced drone and anti-drone capabilities, signalling a new era of aerial strategy.
ACM Sakesan Kantha delivered his policy address and strategic vision for 2026 at the Navaminda Kasatriyadhiraj Royal Thai Air Force Academy in Saraburi’s Muak Lek district on Friday amid recent tensions along the Thai-Cambodian border. He outlined a roadmap of modernisation and continuity, building on the foundation laid by his predecessor.
He emphasised a comprehensive approach to strengthening the Air Force through professionalism, transparency, and technological innovation, while stressing the need to cultivate a new generation of highly skilled personnel capable of operating in both air and space domains.
“The air force must not only adapt to new technologies but also uphold the moral and ethical standards that define our service,” he said.
ACM Sakesan also announced plans to open frontline combat roles to qualified candidates regardless of gender, with the aim of training the first female fighter pilots in the near future.
On technological advancement, the Commander highlighted the growing importance of unmanned aerial systems (UAS). He said the RTAF has issued new guidelines on the types of missions in which drones will be deployed. However, he warned against overreliance on automation.
“Human pilots undergo over a decade of training to develop discernment, responsibility, and ethical judgment — qualities that machines cannot replicate,” he said.
Following recent clashes along the Thai-Cambodian border, he ordered an urgent review of the RTAF’s white paper to reassess lessons learned and adjust priorities.