
Today (April 9, 2026), at 7:30 PM, Prime Minister and Minister of Interior Anutin Charnvirakul and his wife presided over a reception honoring Royal Thai Air Force Day 2026 at the Royal Thai Air Force Aviation Park in Don Mueang. Lieutenant General Adul Boonthamcharoen, Minister of Defence, was also present, as were commanders from all branches of the armed services, diplomats, and former Royal Thai Air Force commanders. Air Chief Marshal Seksan Kantha, Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF), and the President of the RTAF Spouses Association greeted the Prime Minister and his wife.

Upon arrival, the Prime Minister and his wife posed for photos with an F-5 defender and the RTAF Commander-in-Chief. They then took photos with the five top RTAF commanders before the RTAF Commander-in-Chief gave the Prime Minister a replica Mark 82 bomb as a keepsake.

The RTAF Commander-in-Chief told the narrative of an RTAF Ordnance Department technician who had participated in combat, saying, "On the night of December 26, 2025, we received orders to install weapons on our fighter aircraft." "To strike important objectives in the early hours of the next morning and regain our territory this was the important mission. I'm glad to be returning home to my wife and children, whom I haven't seen in nearly a month. I'm delighted that the pilots that went out to fight were sent off safely and without any problems with their weapons. I'm glad that every time the pilots returned, they said to me, "Thank you very much, my friend. Our mission was done today. What makes me the happiest and most proud is that, once in my life, I had an insignificant part in safeguarding our sovereignty. If I had to leave my wife and children again to fulfill this obligation, I would not hesitate for a moment.”

During his remarks and congratulations to the Royal Thai Air Force, the Prime Minister noted that he was glad and blessed to attend the event honoring Royal Thai Air Force Day 2026 tonight. He first thanked and admired all Royal Thai Air Force members for their effort, sacrifice, and unshakable commitment to preserving the nation's independence, sovereignty, and security, as well as their critical role in maintaining the safety of people's lives and property. He emphasized that the Royal Thai Air Force has played a significant role in supporting various government missions, such as disaster assistance, relief supplies, medical transport, air ambulance services, and national defense all of which are vital to the country.
The PM stated to commend the Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Air Force, all levels of commanders, and all Royal Thai Air Force personnel for their dedication, commitment, and professionalism, which has led in the Royal Thai Air Force being an institution that the people trust, respect and are proud of. He expressed confidence that the Royal Thai Air Force will continue to develop, improving personnel, equipment, and aviation technology to modernize and meet security concerns across all dimensions. Furthermore, developing relations with friendly countries is an important mechanism. To improve Thailand's stability and security in the region, which will benefit the people and the country in the long run.

On Air Force Day 2026, the Prime Minister extended his wishes to all Air Force members and their families for happiness, prosperity, good health, strong willpower, career growth, protection from all risks and success in all their activities. The PM further say that, "I'd like to give my off-script remarks on important matters affecting the country's sovereignty. Since becoming office, I've encountered crises needing important national judgments. I express my confidence in all parts of the armed services, including the Royal Thai Armed services, the Royal Thai Army, the Royal Thai Navy, the Royal Thai Air Force, and the Royal Thai Police who have all contributed to making important decisions.
Further that , the PM became sad during his remark before breaking down in tears, and when asked about the Air Force Commander, he remarked, "My confidence comes from a whisper from this Air Force Commander. As for what the whisper was, I'm keep it out it between us."
Photo : Weeraphat Ratsameerueangrong
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