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Tawan Boonkongwathana
I am Captain Tawan Boonkongwathana, a 45-year-old naval researcher with a deep passion for and dedication to aerospace engineering and technology. My academic journey culminated in a Ph.D. as part of a collaborative project between the Royal Thai Navy and the University of Liverpool in 2012. This joint endeavor focused on developing superior structural designs using composite materials.
During my Ph.D. studies, I had the privilege of serving as a teaching assistant in the wind tunnel laboratory, where I gained invaluable teaching experience and enhanced my expertise in aerospace engineering. This role allowed me to bridge theory and practical application, honing my ability to convey complex concepts effectively.
Upon completing my doctoral studies, the knowledge and skills I acquired were instrumental in my involvement with the light seaplane prototyping project. This initiative aimed to design and develop a two-seater amphibious light seaplane for critical missions such as maritime surveillance, economic zone law enforcement, and search-and-rescue operations. My contributions encompassed a wide range of responsibilities, including requirements analysis, structural design, simulation, material and model testing, prototype fabrication, and ground and flight testing. This comprehensive experience has equipped me with the capability to lead multidisciplinary projects in the development of amphibious aircraft.
I also had the honor of serving as a structural engineering lecturer at the Naval Cadet Academy, where I taught undergraduate-level courses for four years. This role allowed me to inspire and mentor the next generation of naval officers, fostering a strong foundation in engineering principles.
Currently, I am seeking new challenges and opportunities to make a significant impact. I have taken on a pioneering role in establishing the Royal Thai Navy Innovation Institute. Our team is dedicated to driving modern innovation as a cornerstone for advancing the Royal Thai Navy. We believe that embracing cutting-edge technology and fostering innovation will propel the Navy toward a brighter and more capable future.
Additionally, I am proud to be part of the long-range coastal-based UAV project, a strategic initiative with a budget of 4 billion baht. This project aims to revolutionize the Royal Thai Navy's operational capabilities by integrating advanced unmanned aerial technology for multi-role applications.
It would be a tremendous honour to participate in the Navy Combine event, as it presents an excellent opportunity to showcase the Royal Thai Navy’s technological advancements, foster meaningful connections, and explore avenues for collaboration. Together, we can work toward building a brighter and more innovative future for naval operations and beyond.