ROI ET, THAILAND – Thailand’s armed forces opened bases nationwide on Children’s Day to stage large-scale demonstrations of weapons and equipment for visiting families.
Tank drill draws crowds in Roi Et
On 10 January 2026, hundreds of visitors gathered at 3:21 p.m. on the football field of the 6th Infantry Division at Somdej Phra Phutthayodfa Chulalok Maharaj Camp in Si Somdet district, Roi Et province. There, the army presented a simulated battlefield for families.
At the centre of the display was a VT-4 battle tank, which advanced towards a marked front line in a controlled exercise and rotated its turret. Children were allowed to watch the demonstration from close range under supervision.
Soldiers also exhibited artillery systems, field equipment and armoured vehicles. Officers explained how the systems functioned and issued safety instructions, while visitors took photos and spoke with members of the unit.
Ceremonial elements and educational focus
The programme included ceremonial activities such as the joint singing of the national anthem and group photos with soldiers. According to organisers, the day was intended to give children the chance to learn about military roles and technology in a public, controlled setting.
“The goal was to bring the work of the armed forces closer to children and to answer questions directly on site.”
said army sources.
Jet displays in several provinces
In parallel, the air force opened several locations to the public. At the air force training centre in Nam Phong district in Khon Kaen province, Alpha Jet TH and F-16 fighter jets were displayed on the ground.
At set intervals, flyovers took place that drew numerous families onto the grounds. The aircraft flew controlled routes over the base while personnel explained technical details.
In Songkhla province, Wing 56 in Khlong Hoi Khong district organised three flights by Gripen fighter jets over the base. The precisely flown passes attracted the attention of children and parents alike.
Open day in Chiang Mai and nationwide coordination
Further north, Wing 41 in Chiang Mai opened its facilities to the public. Visitors were able to view C-130 transport aircraft, as well as fighter jets and support equipment.
At each base, air force personnel were on hand to answer questions and enforce safety procedures. According to Channel 7 News, similar Children’s Day activities took place simultaneously at numerous military installations across the country.
Authorities stressed that all demonstrations had been planned in advance and carried out under standardised safety protocols. The programme ended in the late afternoon, with organisers reporting high attendance and an orderly flow of events at all locations.