Enhancing Royal Thai Army Command and Control Capabilities: A Strategic Framework for LEO Satellite Communication Integration and U.S. Military Collaboration
Keywords:
Command and control, Low Earth Orbit (LEO), Royal Thai Army, Satellite Communication (SATCOM), U.S.-Thailand military cooperationAbstract
The transformation of modern military communications necessitates the adoption of agile, resilient, and high-bandwidth systems to support evolving multi-domain operations. This paper explores a strategic framework for integrating low earth orbit (LEO) satellite communication (SATCOM) technologies specifically Starlink and its military-grade counterpart Starshield into the Royal Thai Army’s (RTA) Command and Control (C2) architecture. It analyzes the advantages of LEO SATCOM, including low latency, high mobility, and proliferation-driven resilience, while addressing vulnerabilities such as cyber threats, electronic warfare, and policy dependence on commercial providers. Through a qualitative, secondary research approach, the study identifies specific operational gaps in RTA’s current C2 systems and evaluates how LEO SATCOM can bridge these deficiencies. A phased roadmap for adoption is proposed, beginning with foundational assessments and pilot deployments and advancing to doctrinal adaptation and sustained modernization. The paper also outlines avenues for U.S.-RTA collaboration, leveraging existing defense partnerships and joint military exercises. Findings suggest that LEO SATCOM integration supported by robust U.S. collaboration, digital competency development, and hybrid communication strategies can significantly enhance the RTA’s operational effectiveness and interoperability while strengthening regional security architecture.
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