RV Connex contributes to the roadmap for a self-reliant and resilient Defense Industry

4 March 2026 — Defense Technology Institute (DTI), Nonthaburi, Thailand. RV Connex Co., Ltd. participated in a forum titled “Advancing the Defense Industry from the Private Sector Perspective,” held as part of the study visit program for participants of the National Defence College (NDC) Class 68 at the Defense Technology Institute (DTI).

The event featured an exhibition showcasing DTI’s research and development initiatives, including projects such as unmanned aerial system (UAS) training programs and explosive ordnance disposal (EOD) robotics development. The forum was moderated by Colonel Dr. Amphan Chanphengpen, Deputy Director of the Defense Technology Institute, and provided a platform for industry representatives to exchange perspectives on the role of the private sector in strengthening Thailand’s defense industry value chain.

Representing RV Connex, Mr. Tanabordi Lusawat, Deputy Director, Commercial, joined the discussion alongside representatives from Weapon Manufacturing Industry Co., Ltd. (WMI), Aero Technology Industry Co., Ltd. (ATIL), and Thai Defense Industry Co., Ltd. (TDI).

During the forum, speakers highlighted the unique characteristics of the defense industry, including long investment cycles, high capital requirements, regulatory constraints, and complex procurement processes, all of which present challenges for private-sector investment in developing national technological capabilities.

The discussion also emphasized the importance of shifting procurement approaches from a Price Strategy, focused primarily on lowest cost, toward a National Value Strategy that prioritizes long-term national benefits, including domestic technology development, industrial capability building, and the strengthening of Thailand’s defense ecosystem.

Participants further discussed the importance of strengthening Thailand’s brand identity in advanced technology and defense industries to reflect the country’s growing capabilities. The adoption of Technology Readiness Level (TRL) standards was also proposed as a framework to assess and communicate the maturity of domestically developed technologies, helping build confidence among both domestic and international partners and supporting the long-term development of Thailand’s defense industry.