Pair enhances aerospace ties

Continuing the tradition of developing both aerospace doctrine and international relations, the Aerospace Centre (AeC) recently hosted two senior members of the Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) as Visiting Fellows.

This is the first time that the RTAF has participated in the fellowship scheme, an important step forward for the AeC and the Air Force. Thailand joins a prestigious list of countries that have been part of the program to improve aerospace knowledge.

The RTAF, one of the oldest independent air forces in the world, saw action with the Allies on the Western Front in WW1, against the Japanese in WW2 and flew operations in the Korean and Vietnam conflicts.

While our histories have followed similar paths, the way in which aerospace power has been used by both nations is varied.

Participation in an aerospace academic program at the AeC provides opportunities for both air forces to learn valuable lessons about the development and application of aerospace power through the perspective of different cultures and experiences.

Academic interaction and engagement with our regional partners in this manner also ensures that the quality, relevance and value of the aerospace doctrine being developed by the Air Force is continually improved.

At the centre, Group Captains Saisak “Joe” Kanpachai and Saneh Buachuen undertook a demanding study program covering a broad range of contemporary and historical aerospace power issues.

Under the guidance of noted Air Force Historian Professor John McCarthy and with the assistance of several guest lecturers, they produced informative papers addressing aspects of aerospace power generally, and identifying the possible future direction of aerospace capability within the RTAF.

These papers, an important addition to the AeC’s expanding list of fellowship works, provide an insightful perspective on the development of aerospace power in our region.

Back in Thailand GPCAPT Buachuen returns to the RTAF Air Warfare Centre where his responsibilities include the oversight of RTAF Aerospace doctrine development and education programs, while GPCAPT Kanpachai resumes his duties within the Directorate of Operations – Policy and Plans.

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