The government is accelerating the creation of a security innovation ecosystem, promoting AI and semiconductors to reduce reliance on foreign technology.

The government, in collaboration with the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI) and the Ministry of Defense, aims to create an innovation ecosystem for Thailand's security within four years, accelerating the development of AI, robotics, semiconductors, and dual-use technologies.

On July 12, 2569, at 08.36:4 AM, Lieutenant Colonel Patthadarasmi Thongslueykorn, Deputy Spokesperson for the Prime Minister's Office, revealed that the government is moving forward with upgrading the research and innovation system for national security through cooperation between the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation (MHESI) and the Ministry of Defence. The goal is to create an "Innovation Ecosystem for National Security" within four years, aiming to develop practical Thai technologies, reduce reliance on foreign technology, and further develop advanced technology industries, which will be another driving force for the country's economy.

This collaboration will integrate research support from the Department of Science and Technology for National Defence (DNS), the National Research Council of Thailand (NRCT), the National Innovation Agency (NIA), and the Thailand Science and Technology Development Agency (TSTDA) to work together systematically. This will connect the capabilities of the government, universities, researchers, the private sector, and end-users to effectively develop technologies that meet national needs.

The core of the operation is to shift the research support model from a "granting agency" to a "co-developer" through a Program Management Unit (PMU) mechanism. This PMU will work with researchers from concept development and prototyping to testing and the delivery of practical, usable results. This overcomes the limitations of the previous system and increases the chances that research meets user needs.

The government is also promoting the development of dual-use technologies that can be applied to both civilian and security missions. This encompasses key technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, sensor systems, cybersecurity, semiconductors, batteries, and next-generation communication technologies. The government is also supporting Thai startups and entrepreneurs to grow and develop advanced technologies, and is preparing to launch the Defense Grand Challenge project to provide a platform for researchers, young people, and entrepreneurs to develop technologies that address security needs and to translate research findings into practical applications.

The THAIDEF-EX 2026 event also featured exhibitions of works from several Thai universities and research institutes, including systems for detecting and countering unmanned aerial vehicles, rescue robots, drones, border surveillance systems, lithium batteries for military vehicles, mobile power generation systems, and cybersecurity technologies. This reflects the potential of Thai researchers in developing technologies that can be further developed into practical applications.

“This collaboration will help elevate the country's research and innovation system by connecting it more closely with practical applications. It will open opportunities for researchers, academic institutions, the private sector, and user organizations to jointly develop technologies that address national needs in terms of security, industrial development, and creating added economic value from Thai innovations,” said Captain Patthadarasmi.

Reference: thaigov.go.th

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