NARIT & Royal Thai Air Force Partner to Boost Space Tech & Security

Thailand is bolstering its space capabilities through a new collaboration between the National Astronomical Research Institute (NARIT) and the Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF). The partnership, formalized on February 13, 2026, aims to enhance the nation’s technological prowess in space technology and surveillance, with a specific focus on supporting national security.

The agreement, signed by Dr. Viphu Rujopkar, Director of NARIT, and Air Chief Marshal Seksan Kantha, Commander-in-Chief of the RTAF, signifies a growing recognition of the strategic importance of space. As stated in the agreement, the collaboration will focus on research and development in space technology and surveillance, personnel development, and support for national space security missions.

The move comes as Thailand, like many nations, acknowledges the increasing role of space technology in both economic development and national defense. The expansion of the space sector is driving investment in research and development, boosting domestic production capabilities, and creating demand for specialized expertise. Beyond economic benefits, space technology is now considered critical for national security, encompassing military operations and non-conflict scenarios like disaster monitoring, and surveillance.

NARIT, as Thailand’s national astronomical research institute, plays a central role in the country’s space endeavors. Its mission includes conducting research, developing advanced technologies related to astronomy and space, and cultivating a skilled workforce. The institute’s technological advancements, initially geared towards astronomical research, have found applications in national security and defense, such as space object tracking systems. These systems, originally developed to track celestial objects, have been adapted to identify and monitor satellites in orbit.

Currently, NARIT is developing a system for detecting unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). This system incorporates the NARIT I-Mount, capable of supporting a 360-degree imaging camera, a thermal camera, a laser rangefinder, and various sensors. The system leverages the institute’s expertise in high-precision celestial object tracking to improve the accuracy of UAV detection and tracking.

The RTAF, for its part, is accelerating its efforts to develop space-based technological capabilities, focusing on personnel training, technology acquisition, and infrastructure development. The collaboration with NARIT is intended to accelerate this process, fostering self-reliance and enhancing Thailand’s ability to defend against space-based threats.

Under the terms of the agreement, NARIT will provide access to its space surveillance systems, personnel, data collection tools, laboratories, and expertise. The RTAF will contribute relevant data to support the development of space technologies, facilitate coordination with other government agencies, and provide resources for joint personnel and technology development.

This partnership represents a significant step towards establishing a robust space surveillance system for Thailand, strengthening the country’s preparedness in an era where space security is increasingly vital. The Thai Space Consortium (TSC), a collaborative initiative involving six scientific agencies, seven universities, and one agency under the Ministry of Defense, further underscores this commitment to a coordinated national space strategy. NARIT serves as the secretariat for the TSC, facilitating collaboration and knowledge sharing.

Thailand’s ambitions extend beyond surveillance. According to a 2021 announcement by the Minister of Higher Education, Sciences, Research and Innovation, Anek Laothamatas, Thailand aims to develop and launch domestically-built satellites weighing 50-100 kilograms within five years and a spacecraft for lunar exploration within seven years. Mu Space Corporation, a private Thai satellite and space technology firm, has also announced plans to build Thailand’s first spaceship and eleven gateway stations for its Low Earth Orbit Satellite (LEO) network.

The Royal Thai Air Force’s 5-year operational plan (2023-2027) and the National Security Policy and Plan (2023-2027) both highlight the importance of space-based capabilities for national security. The collaboration between NARIT and the RTAF is a concrete manifestation of these strategic priorities, positioning Thailand to become a more active participant in the evolving landscape of space security and exploration.