Thailand Launches First Defence Industry Exhibition
Thailand will launch its first defence industry exhibition on July 8, 2026, with Prime Minister Anutin presiding over the event designed to boost domestic defence capabilities and commercialize research through public-private cooperation.
Thailand's Ministry of Defence will hold the opening ceremony of the "THAILAND Defence Industry Exhibition 2026 (THAIDEF-EX 2026)" on July 8, 2026, at 8:00 a.m. at the Multi-Purpose Building of the Permanent Secretary's Office, Ministry of Defence (Sri Saman area). Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul will preside over the event, accompanied by deputy prime ministers, defence ministry officials, cabinet members, military commanders, the national police chief, public sector administrators, and defence industry entrepreneurs and networks.
This exhibition marks Thailand's first dedicated defence industry showcase, organized under the concept of "Power of Self Reliance," aimed at boosting the development and capabilities of Thailand's defence industry. The initiative emphasizes support for research and technology development, innovation creation, and integration of cooperation among government, private sector, and educational institutions—critical mechanisms for strengthening national security and enhancing the country's self-sufficiency.
The event also seeks to translate Thai research and technological achievements into commercial production and application, creating economic added value, promoting employment, and elevating Thailand's defence industry competitiveness on the international stage.
From July 8-10, 2026, the exhibition will feature displays of defence industry products and innovations from both public and private sectors, including research findings ready for commercialization. The program will include keynote speeches, expert panel discussions, technology and innovation demonstrations, business matching sessions, and networking activities connecting entrepreneurs, researchers, and relevant agencies.
The Ministry of Defence's Permanent Secretary Office stated that THAIDEF-EX 2026 will serve as a crucial platform to consolidate the capabilities of all sectors in driving Thailand's defence industry growth alongside technological and economic development, ultimately advancing national self-sufficiency and long-term national interests.
