Bangkok: The Royal Thai Navy is actively safeguarding a gas drilling platform in the Gulf of Thailand after a drone was observed flying perilously close to the area. The Navy has taken immediate measures to ensure the security of this crucial energy infrastructure.

According to Thai News Agency, the Royal Thai Navy has reiterated its commitment to closely monitoring the natural gas drilling platform operated by PTT Exploration and Production Public Company Limited (PTT EP). This action follows the sighting of an unidentified unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) near the Erawan platform. In response, both naval ships and aircraft have been deployed to bolster maritime security and protect the country’s energy infrastructure.

Lieutenant Commander Priyada Buasombun, Assistant Spokesperson of the Royal Thai Navy, confirmed the deployment of ships and aircraft to oversee the security of natural gas drilling platforms in the Gulf of Thailand. The incident occurred on December 9, 2025, when the Royal Thai Navy received a report from the security team at the Erawan platform about the UAV’s intrusion. Acting swiftly, the Royal Thai Navy Region 2 dispatched aircraft to patrol the vicinity, seeking the UAV’s launch site within a 10-kilometer radius of the platform while maintaining vigilant surveillance of the situation. Reports suggest that similar incidents have been detected at other drilling platforms, including Pailin, Satun, and Funan, prompting the Navy to implement rigorous operational plans to safeguard maritime security and the nation’s energy infrastructure.

The Royal Thai Navy maintains consistent coordination with PTT EP and the Maritime Security Command (MSC) through the Second Naval Area Command to establish preventive measures and prepare for comprehensive assistance and security support. The Navy remains committed to performing its mission of protecting national maritime interests with utmost diligence.