Uthenthawai: Region 2 Army Commander Lt. Gen. Boonsin Phadklang has received the ‘Blue Bunker’, a cutting-edge innovation from Rajamangala University of Technology Tawan-ok, Uthenthawai Campus, aimed at enhancing the safety of soldiers and border communities.
According to Thai News Agency, the Blue Bunker was developed through collaboration between the university and the military, with the handover ceremony attended by prominent figures including Associate Professor Dr. Rerkchai Fupratipsiri, President of Rajamangala University of Technology Tawan-ok, along with executives, deans, faculty, students, and representatives from the Uthenthawai Alumni and Parents and Teachers Associations. Upon Lt. Gen. Boonsin’s arrival, he was warmly greeted by students who presented him with roses as a gesture of encouragement.
Asst. Prof. Thongpoon Taseepet, Dean of the Faculty of Engineering and Architecture, explained that the “Blue Bunker Army” is a novel innovation in bunkers and mobile operating bases. Created by alumni and current students, these bunkers are intended for frontline soldiers and communities along the border to enhance safety. The Blue Bunker is constructed from ‘PROPIPE’ material-a corrugated polyethylene pipe reinforced with steel-making it bullet-resistant, durable, lightweight, and easy to transport. It can also be equipped with communication technology to function as a command center. Additional strength can be achieved by surrounding it with sandbags.
The efficiency of the Blue Bunker was demonstrated through a replica of the Uthenthawai Base, showcasing five different formats: Mark 1 as a cover bunker or shelter, Mark 2 as a mobile command base bunker, Mark 3 as an attack bunker along the line of engagement, Mark 4 as a first aid room set, and Mark 5 as a bathroom area.
Lt. Gen. Boonsin expressed his gratitude to the educators and students for their innovative contributions, highlighting the collaboration as a demonstration of unity and practical application of engineering skills. Following the handover, he invited students and teachers to witness the bunker’s application in real field conditions, to explore further development possibilities. He also attended a briefing and presentation at the simulation base to gain insights into the use of each bunker type.