Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul visited Wing 1 air force base in Nakhon Ratchasima province, northeastern Thailand, on 14/8 to inspect operational readiness and observe air combat demonstrations.
Anutin piloted his private TBM 930 aircraft to the base, accompanied by three Royal Thai Air Force F-16 fighter jets. This simulated a high-level escort mission for a VIP. Two F-16s flew parallel on either side of Anutin's plane, with the third flying overhead.
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Thai Prime Minister Anutin pilots a TBM 930 aircraft to an air force base in Nakhon Ratchasima province on 14/8. *ThaiEnquirer* |
Upon landing, Anutin reviewed a guard of honor and watched a welcoming flypast by three F-16 fighter jets. He also observed air-to-ground and air-to-air combat demonstrations.
Speaking at the base, the prime minister acknowledged the air force's readiness and capabilities, especially in fighter jet operations to protect national sovereignty against border security challenges.
Anutin stated that enhancing air force capabilities, particularly fighter jet operations, is a critical national security priority, and the government is prepared to provide full support.
At the end of his visit, Prime Minister Anutin received a badge featuring Mickey Mouse and the inscription "F-16 Fighting Mickey". This design referenced his nickname, as the Thai word "Nu" means mouse.
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Thai Prime Minister's TBM 930 aircraft escorted by F-16 fighter jets. *Thai Nation* |
Last October, Anutin, acting as a volunteer pilot, also flew his private plane from Bangkok to Loei province to retrieve organs from a brain-dead young man, helping to save 7 patients.
In his asset declaration published last year, the Thai prime minister reported owning assets worth 124 million USD, numerous luxury properties, and three private aircraft.
(According to Thai Enquirer, Thai Nation)

