Prime Minister opens THAIDEF-EX 2026, focusing on developing the defense industry for security and the economy
On July 8, 2026, Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul presided over the opening ceremony of the defense industry exhibition, THAIDEF-EX 2026, at the Office of the Permanent Secretary for Defence in Pak Kret District, Nonthaburi Province. The event was held to showcase Thailand's potential and technology in the defense sector.
In his opening remarks, the Prime Minister emphasized the importance of building self-reliance in military equipment. The government has a policy to support the development of the domestic defense industry to reduce imports and establish a solid foundation for national security in the long term.
Beyond security, the Prime Minister also discussed pushing this industry as a mechanism to drive the country's economy by promoting research and development of new technologies. This will help increase Thailand's competitiveness on the global stage and create jobs for skilled personnel in related fields.
At the end of his speech, the Prime Minister reiterated the principle of "Make Love, Not War," or building peace rather than waging war, which reflects that the development of Thailand's defense industry is primarily aimed at self-defense and maintaining peace, rather than focusing on conflicts with other countries.