Guidelines for Competency Development of the Royal Thai Air Force Cyber Workforce

Abstract

Information technology system is significant for military missions. In spite of the efficient operations, the risks caused by system errors or from cyber attackers still occur. Personnel are one factor affecting the missions, it is therefore necessary to raise their level of competence to adapt to ever-changing
technology. This research aimed to study the ways to develop the capabilities of cyber personnel of the Royal Thai Air Force by using qualitative research methodology to collect and analyse relevant documents including the Royal Thai Air Force commander and practitioner interviews. This research study
focuses on the area of the Royal Thai Air Force. The results of this research found that, defensive operations of the Royal Thai Air Force cyber competence are good, while proactive operations are moderate. The relevant policies, processes, master and action plans for supporting the implementation cover almost all aspects, however; lack of cyber concept of operations. There are also no modern and effective  systems and devices. Factors affecting cyber competence include insufficient number of staff, lack of knowledgeable and skilled personnel in the field of cyber as well as incomplete information in the knowledge management system. urthermore, the organisational structure can support only current staff. Accordingly, in order to enhance operational competencies in the field of cyber of the Royal Thai Air Force, practice and training practitioners must be provided for the purpose of readiness to perform their missions effectively. The number of personnel should be appropriate for the task. Moreover, implementing the cyber operational concept should be accelerated in order to be practice guidelines for staff. The
action plans should be revised, updated and comprehended. The knowledge management system should contain completely accurate information. In case there are more cyber task, the organisational structure should be also reviewed
whether or not the structure is still consistent with the missions.