Top Naval Leaders Unite: U.S. and Thailand Forge Stronger Maritime Alliance

The Chief of Naval Operations, Admiral Lisa Franchetti, recently welcomed Admiral Jirapol Wongwit of the Royal Thai Navy (RTN) for an official counterpart visit from February 3 to 5. The three-day visit to Washington D.C. was a part of Jirapol’s five-day tour in the United States, which also included strategic stops in Annapolis, Maryland, and Norfolk, Virginia. Here, the delegation engaged with various Navy commands and interacted with both leaders and Sailors of the U.S. Navy.

Admiring the long-standing relationship between the U.S. and Thailand, Franchetti emphasized, “The U.S. and Thailand have enjoyed 191 years of friendly and diplomatic relations. Thailand’s support to our Navy-Marine Corps team enhances our interoperability and bolsters peace and security throughout the Indo-Pacific.” The connection between the two nations remains pivotal for regional stability.

Jirapol initiated his visit at the U.S. Naval Academy, meeting with Vice Adm. Yvette Davids. His itinerary included participating in a wreath-laying ceremony and discussing collaboration prospects. Admiral Franchetti held a full-honors ceremony for Jirapol, followed by an office call to deliberate on the Navigation Plan for America’s Warfighting Navy. Their discussions stressed the necessity of robust alliances and effective cooperation with international partners.

Throughout their meeting, the two admirals explored strengthening the RTN through collaborative efforts, such as joint exercises like Cobra Gold and CARAT Thailand. Additionally, Jirapol consulted with key U.S. military officials, including Gen. Eric Smith of the Marine Corps and Vice Adm. Craig Clapperton from U.S. Fleet Cyber Command, fostering deeper military ties and understanding.

“I sincerely express my gratitude to Adm. Lisa Franchetti, Gen. Eric Smith, and senior U.S. Navy officials for their warm and dignified reception,” stated Jirapol. He highlighted the significance of this engagement, marking the first RTN leadership office call with the Chief of Naval Operations in over a decade. The discussions allowed both countries to align on strategic maritime interests and foster shared awareness.

Jirapol further remarked, “Our steadfast relationship has spanned 191 years. Our interactions signify a shared intention to uphold and deepen enduring friendships.” Concluding their visit in Norfolk, Jirapol and his delegation connected with U.S. Fleet Forces Command leadership and toured sites such as the USS New Mexico and Norfolk’s Submarine Learning Facility.

Thailand stands as a crucial U.S. ally outside NATO within the Indo-Pacific region, exemplifying leadership in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN). This relationship symbolizes the interwoven destinies and mutual objectives of both nations.