Thailand's Ministry of Defence Structure

What is the role of Thailand's Office of the Minister for Defence?

The Office of the Minister for Defence serves as the principal administrative and policy support arm for the Minister of Defence. It facilitates the Minister's duties in overseeing national defence policies, strategic planning, and inter-agency coordination. This office ensures effective communication and implementation of ministerial directives across the entire defence apparatus, playing a crucial role in the strategic direction of the Ministry.

What are the functions of the Office of the Permanent Secretary for Defence?

The Office of the Permanent Secretary for Defence (OPSD) acts as the central administrative body for the Ministry of Defence, responsible for overall management and coordination of defence affairs. It handles policy implementation, resource allocation, and personnel administration across various departments. The OPSD ensures the smooth operation of the Ministry's civilian and military components, supporting the Minister's strategic objectives and maintaining organizational efficiency.

• Department of Adjutant General (DAG)

What is the Department of Adjutant General responsible for?

The Department of Adjutant General (DAG) within the Office of the Permanent Secretary for Defence manages a wide array of administrative and personnel-related functions. It oversees manpower policy, personnel management, civil service affairs, and various support services. DAG ensures the efficient operation of human resources and administrative processes across the Ministry of Defence, contributing significantly to overall organizational effectiveness.

• Directorate of Manpower Policy and Planning (DMPP)
• Directorate of Personnel (DP)
• Office of the Defence Civil Service Commission (ODCSC)
• Central Division (CD)
• Regulations Division (RD)
• Welfare Division (WD)
• Chaplain Division (CD)
• Ceremonial Division (CD)
• Finance Office (FO)
• Budget Office (BO)

How does the Directorate of Manpower Policy and Planning operate?

The Directorate of Manpower Policy and Planning (DMPP) within the Department of Adjutant General focuses on strategic human resource development for the Ministry of Defence. It formulates policies and plans related to personnel strength, recruitment, and future manpower needs. DMPP also manages data processing and personnel development programs, ensuring the defence force has adequate and well-trained personnel to meet its objectives.

• Manpower Policy and Planning Division (MPPD)
• Data Processing Division (DPD)
• Manpower Development Division (MDD)

What are the responsibilities of the Directorate of Personnel?

The Directorate of Personnel (DP) handles the day-to-day management of military and civilian personnel within the Ministry of Defence. Its responsibilities include personnel administration, service provision, and maintaining discipline. DP also oversees special personnel matters and promotes ethical conduct, ensuring the well-being and professional standards of all defence personnel. This directorate is crucial for effective human resource operations.

• Personnel Management Division (PMD)
• Personnel Services Division (PSD)
• Administration Division (AD)
• Special Personnel Division (SPD)
• Morality, Ethics, and Anti-Corruption Promotion Division (MEAPD)

What is the role of the Office of the Defence Civil Service Commission?

The Office of the Defence Civil Service Commission (ODCSC) is responsible for managing the civil service aspects within the Ministry of Defence. It oversees military and civilian civil service affairs, ensuring fair and consistent employment practices. ODCSC also develops compensation systems, contributing to the welfare and motivation of defence personnel. This office upholds standards for public service within the defence sector.

• Military Civil Service Commission Affairs Division (MCSCAD)
• Defence Civilian Service Commission Affairs Division (DCSCAD)
• Compensation System Development Division (CSDD)

What functions does the Central Division perform?

The Central Division (CD) serves as a key administrative hub within the Department of Adjutant General. It manages general administrative tasks, personnel support, and official correspondence. CD ensures efficient document flow and communication across various sections. Its functions are vital for maintaining the smooth daily operations and organizational coherence of the department, supporting broader defence administration.

• Administrative and Personnel Section
• Correspondence Section
• Receiving and Dispatching Section

What does the Regulations Division oversee?

The Regulations Division (RD) is responsible for maintaining and enforcing personnel regulations and records within the Ministry of Defence. It manages personnel registration, benefits, pensions, and merit systems. RD also handles personnel rights, royal decorations, and conducts control and inspection activities. This division ensures compliance with established rules and proper recognition of service members.

• Personnel Registration Section
• Benefits, Pensions, and Merits Section
• Personnel Rights Section
• Royal Decorations Section
• Control and Inspection Section

What services does the Welfare Division provide?

The Welfare Division (WD) focuses on providing essential support and services to defence personnel and their families. It manages funeral welfare, savings programs, and addresses financial matters including funds and debts. WD's administrative section ensures the smooth delivery of these welfare initiatives. This division plays a crucial role in enhancing the quality of life and financial security for those serving the nation.

• Funeral Welfare Section
• Savings Section
• Funds and Debts Section
• Administrative Section

What is the purpose of the Chaplain Division?

The Chaplain Division (CD) provides spiritual and moral support services within the Ministry of Defence. It focuses on academic and planning aspects related to religious and ethical guidance. CD also handles general administration and governance, ensuring the well-being and moral integrity of personnel. This division contributes to the holistic development and support of defence members.

• Academic and Planning Section
• Administrative Section
• Governance and Services Section

What are the responsibilities of the Ceremonial Division?

The Ceremonial Division (CD) manages official ceremonies and protocols for the Ministry of Defence. It handles administrative oversight, planning and execution of ceremonial events, and processing royal commands. CD ensures that all official functions are conducted with appropriate decorum and adherence to established traditions. This division upholds the dignity and formality of defence-related events.

• Directorate Section
• Ceremonial Section
• Royal Command Section

How does the Finance Office manage defence funds?

The Finance Office (FO) is responsible for the financial administration within its scope, ensuring proper handling of funds for the Ministry of Defence. It manages financial transactions, maintains accurate accounting records, and handles general administrative tasks related to fiscal operations. FO plays a critical role in ensuring financial transparency and accountability for defence expenditures.

• Finance Section
• Accounting Section
• Administrative Section

What is the role of the Budget Office?

The Budget Office (BO) is crucial for the financial planning and oversight within the Ministry of Defence. It develops plans and projects related to budgetary allocations, manages the overall budget process, and conducts monitoring and evaluation of expenditures. BO also handles general administrative duties. This office ensures responsible and effective allocation of financial resources for defence operations.

• Plans and Projects Section
• Budget Section
• Monitoring and Evaluation Section
• Administrative Section

What comprises the Royal Thai Armed Forces?

The Royal Thai Armed Forces (RTAF) represent the operational military component under the Ministry of Defence, responsible for national security, defence, and maintaining peace. It encompasses the primary branches that execute military operations, conduct training, and safeguard the nation's sovereignty. The RTAF works in conjunction with the Ministry's administrative offices to ensure a cohesive and effective defence posture for Thailand.

• Royal Thai Armed Forces Headquarters (RTAFHQ)
• Royal Thai Army (RTA)
• Royal Thai Navy (RTN)
• Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF)