Post by : Shakul

Thailand’s Ministry of Defence has intensified efforts to strengthen the country’s defence industry and military production capabilities through expanded research and development programs. Senior defence officials recently visited the Military Explosives Factory in Nakhon Sawan Province to monitor production projects and assess ongoing technological advancements aimed at improving national security self-reliance.

The inspection visit took place on May 15, 2026, and was led by General Tharaphong Malakham, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, along with Deputy Permanent Secretary General Sarun Petranon and senior officials. The delegation visited the Military Explosives Factory under the Department of Military Industry, Defence Industry and Military Energy Center located in Yan Matri Subdistrict, Phayuhakhiri District.

During the visit, officials reviewed the factory’s key production projects, research activities, and future expansion plans. The Ministry of Defence stated that the primary objective is to strengthen Thailand’s defence manufacturing sector by improving explosive and propellant production technologies according to international standards while reducing long-term dependence on foreign imports.

The Military Explosives Factory plays an important role in producing ammunition, explosives, and military materials for the Ministry of Defence, government agencies, and private sector clients both in Thailand and overseas. Officials explained that the facility is also actively involved in research and product development to support future defence industry needs.

According to the Ministry of Defence, the factory currently has the capability to produce single-base and twin-base tubular propellants that meet both United States and NATO standards. The facility’s annual production capacity reaches 372 tons, including 300 tons of single-base propellant and 72 tons of twin-base propellant. The plant operates continuously in three work shifts per day to maintain production efficiency.

The factory also produces twin-base spherical propellant using technology transferred from China’s Norinco defense company. This production line has an annual capacity of around 70 tons and is considered an important step in expanding Thailand’s domestic military manufacturing capabilities.

During the inspection, General Tharaphong observed the production process for spherical propellant pellets, ammunition assembly operations, and ongoing factory maintenance programs. Officials also presented updates on a joint research project with Kasetsart University focused on developing Thai cotton varieties for nitrocellulose production, a critical raw material used in military explosives.

The government believes the project will help Thailand reduce its reliance on imported materials while building a more sustainable and self-sufficient defence industry. Defence officials emphasized that strengthening local production capabilities is becoming increasingly important as global security challenges and geopolitical uncertainties continue to grow.

The Ministry of Defence stated that future investment in military research, advanced manufacturing technology, and domestic raw material development will remain a key part of Thailand’s long-term national security strategy.

#Thailand News #Asia News #Defence #Security