Thailand's Ministry of Defence is actively pursuing enhancements in its defence sector's research and military production capabilities via expanded development initiatives. Recently, senior officials conducted a visit to the Military Explosives Factory in Nakhon Sawan Province to oversee various production projects and evaluate ongoing technological improvements aimed at fostering national security independence.
The inspection, which took place on May 15, 2026, was spearheaded by General Tharaphong Malakham, the Permanent Secretary for Defence, alongside Deputy Permanent Secretary General Sarun Petranon and other senior officials. The team examined the Military Explosives Factory housed within the Department of Military Industry, Defence Industry, and Military Energy Center in the Yan Matri Subdistrict of Phayuhakhiri District.
During the visit, the team evaluated the factory’s significant production projects, current research activities, and plans for future expansion. The Ministry of Defence highlighted its main goal of fortifying Thailand's defence manufacturing capabilities by enhancing the technology surrounding the production of explosives and propellants to align with international standards, thereby decreasing long-term reliance on foreign imports.
The Military Explosives Factory is integral in supplying ammunition, explosives, and military materials to the Ministry of Defence, various government agencies, and private sector clients domestically and abroad. Officials noted that the facility is also deeply involved in research and product development to cater to the ongoing needs of the defence industry.
As per the Ministry of Defence’s reports, the factory possesses the capability to manufacture single-base and twin-base tubular propellants that conform to both US and NATO standards. It boasts an impressive annual production capacity of 372 tons—comprising 300 tons of single-base propellant and 72 tons of twin-base propellant, achieving efficiency through continuous operations across three shifts each day.
The factory also produces twin-base spherical propellant, utilizing technology acquired from China’s Norinco defense company. This production capacity is approximately 70 tons annually, marking a significant advancement in elevating Thailand’s domestic military manufacturing capabilities.
During the tour, General Tharaphong inspected the production processes for spherical propellant pellets, the operations involved in ammunition assembly, and ongoing maintenance programs at the facility. Updates on a collaborative research initiative with Kasetsart University were also presented, aimed at developing Thai cotton varieties essential for nitrocellulose production, a vital component in military explosives.
The government is optimistic that this research initiative will aid Thailand in lessening its dependency on imported raw materials, all while fostering a sustainable and self-reliant defence industry. Defence officials underlined the necessity of bolstering local production capabilities amidst evolving global security concerns and geopolitical uncertainties.
As indicated by the Ministry of Defence, future endeavours in military research, cutting-edge manufacturing technologies, and the cultivation of domestic raw materials will be critical components of Thailand’s long-term national security policy.
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