Royal Thai Navy Mission 2037: A New Paradigm in Maritime Anarchy

Abstract

This article presents the Future Maritime Operations Concept (FMOC) for the Royal Thai Navy toward the year 2037 (B.E. 2580). The study employs a systematic literature synthesis, integrating classical sea power theories from Mahan and Corbett with postmodern naval theories from Till and Turner. Framed within the school of Offensive Realism, the concept aims to address power construction and management amidst maritime anarchy and great power competition.

The findings indicate a necessary paradigm shift from contemporary Sea Control toward Sea Influence, expanding the traditional scope of Sea Power into postmodern sea power, or Sea Governance. This evolution broadens the naval role in maintaining maritime order, augmenting traditional functions of deterrence, naval presence, and power projection.

The article defines three core strategic missions:

1. 
   

   Sea Influence

   
   


2. 
   

   Naval Presence

   
   


3. 
   

   Coastal Defense

   
   

These missions are executed through the pillars of Deterrence, Combat Victory, and Cooperation. This overarching strategy serves as a mechanism to escape the "Weak State Trap" by leveraging capacity building, a "Smart Two-Handed Policy," transparency, and a redefined concept of power.

Central to this framework is the innovative concept of "Smart Hard Power," which integrates Artificial Intelligence (AI), robotic swarms, and high-performance weaponry. This approach synthesizes quantitative and qualitative power into a robust, effective, and flexible peace assurance system. While the realization of these strategic missions faces challenges regarding personnel development, technological sovereignty, and AI ethics, the FMOC serves as a guarantee for Thailand’s security, peace, and sovereignty within a destabilizing new world order.