Guidelines For Adapting and Preparing Thailand’s Security to The Indo-Pacific Policy in The Leader of Superpower (United State of America)

Abstract

This study aims to (1) analyze the impacts of the United States’ Indo-Pacific policy and strategy on Thailand, and (2) propose guidelines for Thailand’s adaptation and preparedness in response to this policy direction. The research employs a qualitative approach combined with documentary research. Data were collected through in-depth interviews with 15 key informants and analyzed using grounded theory and phenomenological perspectives. Data credibility was ensured through triangulation, while content analysis was applied for data interpretation. The findings indicate that the United States continues to advance the Indo-Pacific strategy to balance and constrain China’s expanding influence across multiple dimensions, thereby placing Thailand under increasing pressure amid great-power rivalry. Based on the DIME framework, the study finds that: (1) in the diplomatic dimension, the United States pursues proactive engagement through mechanisms such as QUAD and AUKUS; (2) in the information and technology dimension, it seeks to restrict China’s technological advancement; (3) in the military dimension, tensions in the South China Sea, East China Sea, and the Taiwan Strait have led to enhanced U.S. force deployment and alliance-building in the region; and (4) in the economic dimension, the United States has promoted new frameworks for economic cooperation with ASEAN. In terms of policy implications, Thailand should adopt a proactive approach by drawing lessons from past experiences, strengthening active diplomacy, and enhancing bargaining capacity, alongside clear and consistent policy communication. Thailand should also reinforce its role within ASEAN and regional security cooperation through the ADMM, avoid being drawn into direct U.S.–China confrontation, prioritize national interests, consider participation in trade arrangements that enhance strategic advantages, and promote conflict-management mechanisms to maintain regional stability.