Thailand’s Maritime Strategy: From Concept to Reality

Abstract

Thailand possesses geographic characteristics highly conducive to the development of robust maritime power, which could substantially enhance the nation’s maritime-based economic potential. Despite this advantage, Thailand has yet to establish a comprehensive maritime strategy that provides governmental agencies, the private sector, and civil society with a concrete framework for the utilization and sustainable exploitation of maritime resources. Consequently, it is imperative to undertake a systematic study aimed at formulating a national maritime strategy and elevating its importance within the Tier 1 National Strategy (2018–2037), as well as integrating it into the Tier 2 Action Plans, which serve as the operational guidelines for driving national development across multiple dimensions. This study therefore seeks to propose an appropriate maritime strategy for Thailand, one that aligns with the contemporary maritime environment in the region.

The analysis employs the Strategy and Force Planning Framework developed by P. H. Liotta and Richmond M. Lloyd to determine the appropriate levels of national maritime strategy, alongside the principles of strategy formulation articulated by Professor Henry C. Bartlett. In addition, data were collected from relevant public and private entities that contribute to strengthening national maritime power, drawing on the theoretical foundations of Rear Admiral Alfred T. Mahan. The study identifies key problems and obstacles that have hindered the effective development and promotion of Thailand’s maritime power. Furthermore, it examines the maritime strategies of other nations for comparative purposes, extracting best practices that may serve as models for enhancing Thailand’s maritime capabilities.

The article also proposes several policy recommendations aimed at advancing Thailand’s maritime strategic posture. First, the government must prioritize maritime affairs as a core driver of the national ocean economy, beginning with the adoption of a forward-looking vision: “Thailand will become a Maritime Nation by 2037.” To achieve this, Thailand must formulate a national maritime strategy as a coherent method for strengthening maritime power and supporting the merchant marine sector, thereby enhancing economic benefits and reinforcing national security operations, particularly in times of crisis or instability.

It is recommended that the National Maritime Interests Protection Committee (NMIPC) incorporate maritime strategy as the seventh strategic issue in the National Strategy (2018–2037) and develop a National Maritime Power Development Plan as an additional Tier 2 plan for submission to the Cabinet. With the Maritime Enforcement Command Center (Thai-MECC) designated as the lead agency responsible for drafting both the maritime strategy and the national maritime power development plan, Thailand will be better positioned to achieve sustainable maritime prosperity supported by clear strategic direction and actionable plans.