PM given VIP reception during his visit to RTAF’s Air Wing 1 base in Korat

The Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) sent three US-made F-16 fighter jets today to escort the aircraft carrying Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul on an inspection visit to the Air Wing 1 base in Nakhon Ratchasima province.

As the plane was approaching the air base, three F-16 fighter jets took off to give the prime minister an air force-style VIP welcome. The prime minister was met on the airfield by RTAF Commander-in-Chief Air Chief Marshal Sakesan Kantha and several senior air force officers.

The prime minister was then escorted on a tour of the RTAF’s fleet, which took part in air operations during the war with Cambodia last year, including the aging F-5 and F-16 fighters, AT-6 and Swedish-made Gripen jets.

During the visit, the prime minister assured air force officers of the government’s support for strengthening the RTAF’s capabilities on a long-term basis, with funding for the procurement of new aircraft, mid-air refueling aircraft and drones.

The prime minister also pledged support for the development of defence industries, space technology for national security and for the air force’s role in public disaster mitigation operations.

An air show, comprising four F-16 fighter jets and a demonstration of air-to-ground and air-to-air exercises was organised for the prime ministers and his delegates.