“Army Spokesperson” Reveals Army Chief Urges Unit-Level Resolution and Better Care for Conscripts

Today (27 April 2026), 3:30 PM at the Army Headquarters, Major General Winthai Suwaree, Army Spokesperson, stated that during a meeting of the army's directives, General Phana Klaewplodthuk, the Army Commander, thanked the units for their dedication, sacrifice, and responsibility in past missions, resulting in smooth and efficient operations. Regarding the new conscription process, the Army Commander closely monitored the situation, finding it to be satisfactory with no objections regarding transparency and receiving excellent cooperation from all sectors. With the number of volunteers exceeding expectations, this is a positive trend. He also expressed gratitude to all Thai men who participated in the military conscription selection process.

Major General Winthai added that the Commander-in-Chief of the Army emphasized the role of unit commanders, as commanders at all levels are crucial in driving the army's policies. He urged them to strictly adhere to the army's guidelines and supervise their units to meet the standards set by the army and the Commander-in-Chief.

Especially regarding preventing internal problems within units, the Commander-in-Chief mentioned inadequate oversight and stressed the importance of commanders ensuring comprehensive supervision, the ability to resolve unit-level issues appropriately, and protecting the rights of all personnel, including their living conditions and environment. He also instructed them to prepare for the influx of new recruits, including training, welfare, and entitlements, ensuring safety and smooth operation.

Major General Winthai further stated that the Commander-in-Chief emphasized disaster preparedness, urging full readiness for the rainy season to provide timely assistance to the public. He also stressed the unity of units and the army as the core of the organization, urging all personnel to perform their duties with perseverance and discipline and to be prepared to face diverse changes and various threats. These will arise from the current situation to maintain national stability and public trust.

Colonel Richa Suksuwanon, Deputy Spokesperson of the Royal Thai Army, addressed the volunteer soldier policy, stating that it is not a new initiative, as it has been implemented continuously due to the reduction of the Royal Thai Army's personnel. After the reduction, a replacement is needed, and volunteer soldiers are a part of this ongoing development. By 2026, there will be 800 positions for both commissioned and non-commissioned officers. Currently, the first round of applications and selection has been completed, and those who applied are in the process of the second round of selection. Regarding the details of the recruitment process, the Royal Thai Army will continue to develop it to align with the Ministry of Defense's and the government's personnel reduction policies.

When asked about the welfare and salary structure for volunteer soldiers, Colonel Richa stated that recruitment is for both commissioned and non-commissioned officers on a temporary 4-year contract. There are age and qualification requirements for recruitment. This allows for the recruitment of young, energetic personnel. Upon completion of the contract, they will be discharged, resulting in a constant personnel rotation and reducing long-term tax burdens. It is considered a good replacement for troop numbers.

When asked about their placement in various branches of the armed forces and their duties, Colonel Richa stated that there are many branches nationwide, both within military regions and combat units, depending on the available positions.

Regarding whether their benefits would be better than those of regular soldiers, Colonel Richa said that because there are both commissioned and non-commissioned officer positions, their benefits would be superior. He added that he would provide further details on whether their benefits would be equivalent to those of regular soldiers at a later date.