Chief of Defence Forces of the Royal Thai Armed Forces Makes Introductory Visit to Singapore

Chief of Defence Forces of the Royal Thai Armed Forces (RTARF) General (GEN) Ukris Boontanondha (left) calling on Minister for Defence, Mr Chan Chun Sing (right) earlier today.

GEN Ukris inspecting the Guard of Honour at MINDEF yesterday.

GEN Ukris (left) receiving a brief at Paya Lebar Air Base.

The Chief of Defence Forces of the Royal Thai Armed Forces (RTARF) General (GEN) Ukris Boontanondha called on Minister for Defence, Mr Chan Chun Sing at the Ministry of Defence (MINDEF) this afternoon. During their meeting, Mr Chan and GEN Ukris reaffirmed the close and long-standing bilateral defence relationship between Singapore and Thailand, and exchanged views on geopolitical developments in the region.

GEN Ukris is in Singapore from 13 to 15 January 2026 for his introductory visit. As part of his visit, he also called on Chief of Defence Force Vice Admiral Aaron Beng after inspecting a Guard of Honour at MINDEF. GEN Ukris also visited Paya Lebar Air Base, and the Counter-Terrorism Information Facility (CTIF) at Changi Naval Base.

GEN Ukris’ visit underscores the strong bilateral defence ties between Singapore and Thailand. Both countries interact regularly through exercises such as Exercise Cobra Gold, professional exchanges, high-level visits, cross-attendance of courses, as well as through multilateral platforms such as the ASEAN Defence Ministers’ Meeting (ADMM) and ADMM-Plus. These interactions have strengthened cooperation and deepened mutual understanding between both armed forces.