Nakhon ratchasima: Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul demonstrated his aviation skills by personally piloting his private plane to inspect Air Base 1 in Nakhon Ratchasima, where he delivered a significant five-point policy directive aimed at upgrading the Royal Thai Air Force.
According to Thai News Agency, in his role as Chairman of the National Security Council, the Prime Minister's visit to the tactical aviation unit of Wing 1 was marked by a traditional escort from F-16 fighter jets upon entering the airspace. This customary gesture was part of the standard practice to honor the visiting VIP.
Upon arrival, the Prime Minister received a salute from the honor guard with an aerial display from the F-16 fighter jets. He then laid out five crucial policy areas to strengthen the air force's capabilities and enhance national security. These directives included acquiring new fighter jets to replace aging aerial refueling aircraft and integrating armed unmanned aerial vehicles, also known as "attack drones." Additional focus was placed on promoting local capabilities and industries, accelerating the development of a tactical data linkage system that aligns with the Royal Thai Armed Forces' multidimensional joint control system, and supporting the "One Team, Royal Thai Armed Forces" concept for unified operations across all military branches. The Prime Minister also stressed the importance of adhering to the Defence Offset policy during high-value equipment procurement and expressed gratitude to all personnel for their commitment to national security.
The visit included a review of tactical equipment and a display of air power missions featuring four F-16 fighter jets simulating air attacks, as well as a combat zone search and rescue demonstration by an H225M helicopter. In recognition of the occasion, the Commander of the Air Operations Command presented the Prime Minister with a special F-16 patch from Squadron 103. The patch, embroidered with Mickey Mouse and the text "F-16 Fighting Mickey," corresponds to the Prime Minister's call sign, "Mickey," when flying.