Deputy Prime Minister Visits RV Connex, Thailand’s UAV Manufacturer, Reaffirming Support for National Defense Industry

On February 7, 2025, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense Phumtham Wechayachai, along with his delegation, visited R V Connex Co., Ltd., a leading Thai UAV manufacturer and provider of advanced cybersecurity technologies. The visit aimed to explore the company’s capabilities in unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) production and cybersecurity operations, emphasizing the government's intention to support Thailand’s national defense industry to match international standards and address modern warfare challenges.

During the visit to RV Connex's headquarters in Pathum Thani, Mr. Phumtham was welcomed by Assoc. Prof. Dr. Sujate Jantarang, President of RV Connex, and key executives. The delegation toured the UAV production facilities and the company’s Cybersecurity Operation Center (CSOC).

Gp. Capt. Kanputt Mungklasiri, Vice Executive Chairman of RV Connex, provided a comprehensive briefing on the company’s contributions to Thailand’s defense industry. He highlighted that RV Connex and other Thai defense companies possess capabilities comparable to international manufacturers, particularly in designing and producing UAVs, retrofitting combat aircraft for the Royal Thai Air Force, and developing anti-drone systems, tactical data links, and advanced security technologies such as Intelligent Operation Centers (IOC).

Furthermore, the company collaborates with the Royal Thai Army's Artillery Center to develop tactical operation command systems. Gp. Capt. Kanputt underscored the urgent need for the government and Ministry of Defense to prioritize local defense procurement, which aligns with Thailand’s National Strategy 2018–2037 on national security.

He also stressed that current regulations governing defense procurement often lack clarity, causing concerns among decision-makers about potential allegations of misconduct when favoring local manufacturers. Clearer policies, he argued, would help foster the growth of Thailand's defense sector and strengthen both national security and the economy.

Gp. Capt. Kanputt revealed that RV Connex has already established international partnerships in countries like Germany, Canada, and Portugal, positioning Thailand as a potential hub for defense technology exports amid shifting global geopolitical dynamics.

Mr. Piphat Thavornloha, Director of Engineering at RV Connex, led the delegation in observing the company’s capability to independently design and manufacture advanced UAVs. Notably, the company has developed Southeast Asia's first jet-powered target drone, the JRV-01.

Mr. Tanajak Watanakij, Vice President Cyber Security & Data Analytics (CYDA) at RV Connex, presented the CSOC’s capabilities in Managed Detection and Response (MDR) services, branded as "Azurites." These services are already operational in countries such as Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia, Myanmar, India, and Brunei. The company’s subsidiary, Cynclair, has also been recognized by Gartner Peer Insights for its MDR expertise. In addition, RV Connex offers fraud detection software to align with emerging cybersecurity regulations.

Following the visit, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense Phumtham Wechayachai expressed his pride in RV Connex’s achievements, emphasizing the importance of fostering Thailand’s defense industry.

“I am delighted to witness firsthand the advanced UAV production and cybersecurity capabilities of RV Connex. It is reassuring to see that Thai companies possess technological capabilities on par with global standards. This visit strengthens the Ministry of Defense's commitment to promoting locally manufactured defense equipment. I am also pleased to see private sector investment in defense research and development, which aligns with the government’s strategic objectives and the Ministry’s policies to facilitate private-sector participation in the defense industry,” said Mr. Phumtham.

He highlighted the critical role of the 20,000 workers currently employed in the defense sector and stressed the need to develop a highly skilled technological workforce to further drive the nation’s economic growth.

“I extend my sincere gratitude to the management and staff of RV Connex for their warm hospitality. I look forward to continued collaboration between the public and private sectors in advancing Thailand’s defense industry sustainably,” Mr. Phumtham concluded.