Thai Military Receives Nearly 8,000 Volunteer Applications
Thailand's Defence Ministry received nearly 8,000 volunteer soldier applications in its first week, filling almost a third of the 25,000 available positions across all military branches.
The Defence Ministry reported on September 18 that its 2570 Volunteer Soldier programme received 7,898 applications between September 10-17, representing 31.59% of the 25,000 available positions. On September 17 alone, 492 new applicants signed up across all branches: the Army with 427, the Navy with 37, the Air Force with 24, and Thai Armed Forces Headquarters with 4.
Of the total 7,898 applicants, 5,391 are career soldiers, 1,309 are supplementary soldiers, and 1,198 are discharged conscripts seeking re-enlistment. Word of the programme reached applicants primarily through official channels (53.55%), followed by military units (27.67%) and social media (18.79%).
The strong response reflects not just interest in military service but also young people seeking to plan their futures and access opportunities in education, career development, and social benefits. The volunteer soldier initiative aims to provide pathways for personal growth and preparation for life after service. Applications are accepted online through September 10 to January 24, 2570, with the first selection round on Saturday, November 28.
