A military modernisation push focused on AI and advanced tech is underway, including a new Joint Capabilities Command (JCC) described by Supreme Commander Gen Ukrit Boontanon as the country's "fifth armed force."
Speaking at the "Digital Readiness for One Team RTARF" seminar at the Royal Thai Armed Forces Headquarters, Gen Ukrit said the military could no longer afford to wait for perfect solutions before embracing emerging technologies.
"Previously, we had the Royal Thai Armed Forces Headquarters, the Army, Navy and Air Force. From now on, we must have a 'fifth force' dedicated specifically to technology," he said.
The JCC, which will begin operations on Oct 1, will serve as a central command for developing advanced military capabilities across all branches of the armed forces. Gen Ukrit said it would focus on five strategic capability areas: AI, electromagnetic spectrum operations, military robotics, air defence, and space technology.
"We are only at the beginning. If we wait until we have a perfect formula or the best solution before taking action, it will already be too late," he said.
"The exponential technology curve is now rising almost vertically. We must begin immediately. We may make mistakes, but those mistakes will generate valuable data that allows us to improve and adapt."
