The Defence Council, chaired by Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Phumtham Wechayachai, approved a white paper on Monday detailing a plan to downsize the armed forces and cut spending on weapons. The strategy, part of the 2026-2037 defence plan, aims to streamline operations while aligning with the national interest.
The council discussed a unified strategic direction for agencies under the Defence Ministry to ensure cohesion and adherence to the broader goal of military downsizing. It also acknowledged a draft amendment to the Defence Act, initially prepared by former defence minister Sutin Klungsang. The bill, currently under revision following feedback, will be resubmitted to the Defence Council, forwarded to the cabinet, and eventually proposed to the House for approval.
The white paper provides a framework to guide military preparedness and the role of armed forces. According to Defence Ministry spokesman Maj Gen Thanathip Sawangsaeng, efforts to downsize have already begun, with personnel reductions of 5% projected by 2027. By 2028, the ministry aims to cut specialist generals and operational officers by 50% through an early retirement programme.
Other measures include limiting intakes from military education institutes, adjusting conscription to match mission needs, and increasing reliance on voluntary recruits in combat and support roles. The council also reiterated Thailand’s commitment to a neutral stance on global issues and emphasized disaster rescue operations as part of its focus.
