US transfers 17 Stryker vehicles to Thai army during Hanuman Guardian 2026

2026-03-20 - 12:20

LOPBURI — The United States Army Pacific (USARPAC) has ceremonially transferred 17 Stryker armoured vehicles to the Royal Thai Army during the closing ceremony of Exercise Hanuman Guardian 2026, marking a new step in bilateral defence cooperation. The handover took place at the Royal Thai Army Aviation Center in Lopburi and was attended by senior officials from both countries, including USARPAC Deputy Commander Lt. Gen. Joel Vowell, Royal Thai Army Commander-in-Chief Gen. Pana Claewplodtook, and US Ambassador to Thailand Sean K. O’Neill. The transfer was conducted under the US Excess Defense Articles (EDA) programme. The vehicles, previously used by US Army units, are expected to enhance Thailand’s military capabilities and support ongoing modernisation efforts. According to USARPAC, the Stryker vehicles will form the foundation of the Royal Thai Army’s 111th Stryker Regiment Combat Team, supporting both training and operational missions. USARPAC Commanding General Gen. Ronald Clark said the transfer reflects the long-standing alliance between the two countries and its role in maintaining regional security. “The US-Thai alliance is a cornerstone of regional stability and security,” he said, adding that the initiative aims to strengthen military capabilities, build trust and address emerging challenges. Ambassador O’Neill said the transfer could also lead to future infrastructure development to support the Stryker fleet, potentially creating jobs and expanding defence and commercial cooperation between the two countries. He added that such investment could position Thailand as a regional hub for defence sustainment and innovation, while opening opportunities for collaboration between US and Thai companies. Exercise Hanuman Guardian 2026 is a joint military exercise between Thailand and the United States and remains a key platform for defence cooperation. This year’s activities included live-fire drills and cultural exchanges aimed at strengthening coordination and mutual understanding between the two armed forces.