Bangkok: The Royal Thai Army has intensified its measures to counteract potential threats from drones, integrating efforts with all sectors following reports of attempted drone flights over military installations. According to Thai News Agency, the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand announced on July 29, 2025, a nationwide prohibition on operating or launching drones for any purpose to safeguard national security amid tensions along the Thai-Cambodian border. In response, military personnel and designated security agencies have been empowered to utilize anti-drone systems, including the authority to destroy drones from the ground. General Pana Klaewplodthuk, Commander of the Royal Thai Army Operations Center and Deputy Director of Internal Security Operations, has directed the Operations Centers of Army Areas 1 to 4 and the Internal Security Operations Command Regions 1 to 4 to implement comprehensive measures to counter the drone threat. The Provincial Internal Security Operations Command, under the De puty Director's coordination, is tasked with collaborating with relevant government agencies, departments, and the private sector. The Director of the Provincial Internal Security Operations Command is charged with overseeing and planning the strategy to prevent and counter the use of unidentified drones. Local agencies, including provincial police, security agencies, and private sector entities, are urged to integrate their efforts and form rapid response teams comprising civilian personnel, police, and military police. These teams are responsible for intercepting and apprehending operators or users of unidentified drones. The guidelines for employing weapons against drones vary based on the situation. In cases where a serious threat is detected that could endanger personnel, citizens, or national interests, units stationed along the border are authorized to use personal or unit weapons. In Army Areas 1 and 2, both Soft Kill and Hard Kill measures are applicable in frontline areas, while Soft Kill is prefe rred in rear areas unless a Hard Kill becomes necessary. In the 3rd and 4th Army Regions, a preference for soft kill measures is maintained, with hard kill options available if required. Police officers are primarily responsible for using weapons against drones, and military units are restricted to using weapons within their jurisdiction, ensuring no harm comes to innocent civilians. The public is encouraged to report any suspicious drone activities or UAV launches to the 24-hour security hotline at 1374, as part of the collective effort to maintain national security.
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