Vice Chief of the Defence Force visits Thailand

Vice Chief of the Defence Force Air Marshal Mark Binskin visited Thailand this week to meet with the Thai Chief of Defence Forces, General Tanasak Patimapragon, and other Royal Thai Armed Forces leaders.

Air Marshal Binskin said Thailand was a highly valued regional partner for Australia.

“The Australian Defence Force and Royal Thai Armed Forces share a history of cooperation to support regional stability,” he said.

“Our extensive defence engagement program of exercises, education and training is critical to the ability of our armed forces to operate together now and in the future.

“This was an excellent opportunity to affirm Australia’s defence relationship with Thailand as we share a stake in the security and stability of the Indo-Pacific region.”

Air Marshal Binskin also spoke to students at the Joint Staff College about the changing regional environment in terms of security and prosperity. In addition, he toured Wing 7 Surat Thani Air Force Base in Southern Thailand, home to the Gripen aircraft.

“I was pleased to tour the Surat Thani base and see the Gripen aircraft at Wing 7 – it is a new military aircraft and given our close relationship with the Royal Thai Air Force it was a fantastic opportunity to learn about its capability.”

Media note:
Imagery is available at: http://images.defence.gov.au/S20132143

Media contact:
Defence Media Operations (02) 6127 1999