Publication

This paper analyzes the US-Thai defense relationship in a historical continuum and with new, rapidly evolving strategic interests in mind. The author discusses the history of bilateral defense cooperation, identifies three benchmark issues that have indicated both the limits of cooperation and shaped Bangkok's thinking about the parameters of cooperation, examines the way the relationship has evolved in the past decade, and looks at new roles and dynamics in the bilateral relationship. The author argues that the relationship needs to be infused with greater strategic depth and acknowledgment of Thailand's strengthened regional role.