Army Clarifies Drone Donations After Lawyer Tum Inquiry, Rejects Cash
The Royal Thai Army clarified its donation policy after lawyer Sitthira Biabangkit requested information on drone donations by the Yam Phaendin Foundation. The Army confirmed it accepts only equipment, not cash, and emphasized transparent procedures. The spokesperson thanked the public and private sectors for a year of support since the 2025 border crisis.
On November 12, 2026, at the Royal Thai Army Headquarters, Army spokesperson Lieutenant General Winthai Suvaree disclosed that Mr. Sitthira Biabangkit submitted a letter to the Army Headquarters today (November 12, 2026) requesting information on drone and equipment donations by the Yam Phaendin Foundation in the past.
Lt. Gen. Winthai addressed the donations and public support for the Army over the past year, marking one year since the border conflict crisis in 2025. He said, "On behalf of the Royal Thai Army, I would like to deeply thank the public, foundations, and all private sectors for showing their generosity by supporting equipment for our personnel. The goodwill and concern you have given to the soldiers, police, and officials sacrificing to protect national sovereignty is a tremendous morale booster and an important tool that enhances safety, supports Army operations, and contributes to the resounding success of border defense missions."
Regarding the source of support, during the 2025 border conflict the Army urgently needed additional equipment to protect frontline troops, while the government budget system requires advance planning and emergency funds take time to process. Consequently, many citizens stepped forward to support the Army in various forms.
The Army has a clear policy not to seek monetary support but only equipment and supplies. Most donations involve prior coordination between donors and receiving units, reducing administrative burden, especially while the Army is engaged in the Thai-Cambodian border mission.
Public generosity has effectively supplemented border operations capacity, while government budget disbursements continue in parallel under legal regulations.
Another key area of support is assistance for injured personnel and families of the fallen, transferred directly to recipients with transparency.
Public support has not come solely from the Yam Phaendin Foundation but from diverse sectors continuously supporting the Army through the central coordination center and local units, delivering directly to frontline troops per donors' intentions. Handovers at Army Headquarters have been conducted openly with media coverage and public dissemination.
Related News: Lawyer Tum Storms Army HQ Demanding Probe into Yam Phaendin Foundation Drone Procurement, Vows "Surprise" on Nov 16.
