Market Report, "Thailand Defence & Security Report Q4 2014", published

Thailand's military government remains in place under the premiership of General Prayuth Chan-ocha following the military coup of May 2014. As intended, this action has restored order and stability, although it is not a long-term solution. Even if the planned return to democracy by October 2015 goes ahead, the Thai military will enjoy excessive influence in the country. Its budget is bloated and inefficient yet the army will continue to exert sufficient power to prevent any meaningful reform.

The ouster of Prime Minister Yingluck Shinawatra on constitutional grounds in May 2014 triggered a rapid escalation in civil tensions across Thailand, pitting her 'red shirt' supporters against the, largely urban, pro-establishment, 'yellow shirts'. With the caretaker government unable to calm tensions, the military stepped in and dismissed the interim administration. Temporarily imposing martial law and a curfew, as well as suspending much of the constitution, the head of the Royal Thai Army, General Prayuth insisted that the move was designed solely to restore order.

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While there have not been any major new defence deals during 2014, there have been a number of small but significant developments. Thailand's Navy is currently in talks with US defence contractor Havelsan over upgrades for its FFGs, or Oliver Hazard Perry guided missile frigates. These upgrades will see Thailand's fleet of FFGs better suited for modern combat with new sensors and weapons all of which will be integrated into a central command system. However, the military's intervention in domestic politics has jeopardised international deals and co-operation, particularly those involving the United States.

In Q214, Thailand completed the acquisition of the last of its 12 Gripen fighter jets from Swedish manufacturer Saab. This offers a more affordable fighter jet option, which remains an important consideration, in spite of the generous defence budget, owing to inefficient expenditure processes.

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The Thailand Defence & Security Report features Business Monitor International (BMI)'s independent forecasts for national and international security, the defence industry, military expenditure, employment in arms production, and arms imports and exports, as well as examining industry trends and prospects, national and multinational arms producers and the regulatory environment.

BMI's Thailand Defence & Security Report provides professionals, consultancies, government departments, regulatory bodies and researchers with independent forecasts and regional competitive intelligence on the Thai defence and security industry.

Key Benefits

* Benchmark BMI's independent defence and security industry forecasts on Thailand to test other views - a key input for successful budgetary and strategic business planning in the Thai defence and security market.

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