Thailand has approved the creation of a new Defence Science and Technology Department (DSTD) to strengthen national security research and reduce costly reliance on foreign-made defence technology. The move is seen as a major shift in how the country manages innovation for national security and economic growth. Thailand currently imports around 98 percent of its defence equipment. This new department aims to change that trend by expanding local research and development.
The decision came during a meeting held on October 21, 2025. The Office of National Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation Policy Council (NXPO) endorsed the initiative after reviewing the defence sector’s long-term needs. The Ministry of Defence already has trained staff, testing facilities and operational experience. The new department will connect these assets with a more focused system for innovation and commercial success. The aim is simple. Thailand wants to build technology at home and protect the nation with tools made by its own experts.
Strengthening Defence Innovation Through Local Research Coordination
Thailand wants to combine security research that was once spread across many organisations. With the DSTD, research will align with real defence strategies. The military will have a direct role in shaping research needs. That should reduce duplicated projects and allow faster progress. It should also support local talent and businesses.
The Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation has created a roadmap. It highlights four urgent priorities. These are designed to help the wider innovation ecosystem benefit from security-driven technology.
- Upskilling and reskilling of workers to support advanced industries
- Development of practical technologies that can be used quickly
- Support for SMEs, startups and regional businesses
- Better innovation zones and improved water management systems
These priorities link defence progress with social progress. Innovation is not only for the battlefield. It can create new markets for Thai businesses. Local industries can produce both defence and dual-use commercial products. The government sees this as a turning point. Instead of depending on outside suppliers, it wants Thailand to be the creator.
Coordination is also key. By connecting defence organisations, researchers and universities, projects can move from early ideas to real applications. Policies will encourage shared resources and cooperation.
Defence Innovation to Reduce Foreign Dependency
Thailand’s high import rate exposes the nation to global risks. When technology is imported, supply can be interrupted. Prices can rise. Geopolitical tensions can create delays. The new department hopes to lower these risks by developing more systems locally. From communications tools to energy technology, domestic innovation will be encouraged. Thailand wants to protect not only its borders but also its independence in critical technologies.
Defence Projects to Support Economic Growth and Security Outcomes
The DSTD will take on projects using a phased approach. It will support research at different levels. That includes basic science. It also includes technology testing and commercial rollout. The department will focus mainly on non-classified research that still supports national security. It will also help industries build dual-use products. This increases value for the economy because the same research can support private sector markets.
The Defence and Military Energy Industry Centre is being proposed as the leader for continued innovation after major approvals are secured. This follows the Science, Research and Innovation Promotion Act of 2019. The Act focuses on long-term investments. Thailand wants technology that lasts. Local researchers will have a chance to grow their capabilities and contribute to global markets.
This initiative could help build new skills. It may also attract more young people to science and engineering careers. Local companies can get contracts to make products that were once imported. With better collaboration, development time could shorten. Thailand wants efficiency and results. And it wants this progress to stay within the country.
Key Focus Areas of the DSTD
Technology and Skills to Build a Safer and Stronger Future
Thailand is also focused on supporting small and medium businesses. These companies often struggle to enter the defence market. With new mechanisms in place, they can work more closely with the Ministry of Defence. Innovation zones will offer space for testing and product development. Universities can provide research support.
The energy sector is a priority. Defence systems depend on secure energy supplies. The new department will push research into military energy technologies. It will also seek ways for renewable solutions to support security. Clean energy can lower long-term costs and improve sustainability.
Thailand hopes that the creation of the DSTD will turn research into economic value. Local jobs will grow. More Thai-made systems will enter the market. The public sector and private sector will share benefits. The military will be a direct user and beneficiary of new technology. Businesses will gain from wider production and sales.
Supporting universities means more careers in research. Students will have more opportunities in advanced engineering. Thailand aims to keep top talent inside the country. Innovation will become part of national identity.
The government’s message is clear. Thailand is building strength through knowledge. By investing now, the nation prepares for future challenges. Security is not only a military issue. It is also economic, scientific and social. This new department connects those areas into one strong direction.
Trending FAQs
Why did Thailand establish the Defence Science and Technology Department?
To improve national security research, support local innovation and reduce the country’s heavy dependence on imported defence systems.
How much defence equipment does Thailand currently import?
About 98 percent of its defence technology and systems come from other countries.
Which government organisations are involved?
The DSTD will operate under the Ministry of Defence with policy approval led by the NXPO and support from the Ministry of Higher Education, Science, Research and Innovation.
What are the benefits for local businesses?
SMEs and startups can gain new opportunities to produce dual-use technology. This can grow local industries and increase high-skill employment.
Will the DSTD only focus on weapons and military hardware?
No. It will also develop energy systems, communications tools and other technologies that can help society and the economy.
How will the plan support long-term national growth?
By strengthening research capability, encouraging local production and building skills for future innovation industries.
Thailand’s new Defence Science and Technology Department signals a fresh era. The armed forces will gain access to smarter and locally designed innovation. Businesses can enter a growing sector that was once dominated by imports. The country will rely more on its own expertise. This milestone reflects a strong vision. Thailand is investing in knowledge, capability and security.
