NAKHON RATCHASIMA — Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul arrived at Wing 1 in Nakhon Ratchasima on Friday in his private plane, escorted by three F-16 fighter jets in a simulated VIP protection mission.
Anutin, who also chairs the National Security Council, was visiting the Royal Thai Air Force’s Wing 1 to review its operational readiness and observe demonstrations of air combat capabilities.
As the prime minister’s aircraft entered the airbase’s airspace, two F-16s flew alongside it while a third flew above, simulating an escort mission for a VIP aircraft before the planes landed.
Anutin was received by Air Chief Marshal Seksan Khantha, commander-in-chief of the Royal Thai Air Force, Defence Minister Lt. Gen. Adul Boonthamcharoen, Defence Permanent Secretary Gen. Tharapong Malakam, Chief of Defence Forces Gen. Ukrit Boontanont and senior military officers.
The prime minister reviewed an honour guard before watching demonstrations of the Air Force’s tactical missions, including simulated air-to-ground and air-to-air operations involving F-16 fighter jets.
Speaking to personnel at Wing 1, Anutin praised the unit for its role in protecting Thailand’s sovereignty, particularly through tactical fighter operations amid security concerns along the border.
“I would like to commend all commanders, personnel and staff for their sacrifice and dedication in protecting the nation’s sovereignty and providing reassurance to the people,” Anutin said.
He said strengthening the Air Force’s capabilities, particularly its fighter operations, was an important national security priority and that the government was ready to provide full support.
“The government is ready and willing to provide full support so that the Royal Thai Air Force can maintain its highest level of capability,” he said.
Anutin also thanked Air Force personnel for demonstrating unity, patriotism and dedication to the public interest, urging them to maintain their readiness and commitment to protecting the country’s sovereignty and national interests.
During the visit, the prime minister inspected tactical military equipment and watched a Combat Search and Rescue demonstration involving an H225M helicopter.