Hun Sen Signals New Investments in Cambodia’s Defence Industry
Hun Sen Signals New Investments in Cambodia’s Defence Industry
BATTAMBANG, June 12, 2026 — Cambodian Senate President and Acting Head of State Hun Sen has pledged continued support for the development of Cambodia’s domestic defence industry, saying the country should strengthen its capacity to produce equipment needed for national security and defence.
Speaking during a visit to the DSS military uniform manufacturing facility in Battambang province on Thursday, Hun Sen said Cambodia should continue investing in local production capabilities to support the armed forces and reduce dependence on external suppliers.
He stressed that Cambodians possess the knowledge and skills necessary to develop increasingly sophisticated industries, drawing comparisons to the engineering and architectural achievements of the Angkor era.
“Hun Sen will continue helping the government in producing additional materials related to national defence and security,” he said. “Cambodia once built Angkor Wat, so producing these kinds of materials should not be beyond the ability of the younger Cambodian generation.”
Hun Sen added that Cambodia must preserve its dignity and self-reliance while continuing to strengthen national capabilities.
He said the government’s immediate objective is to ensure sufficient domestic production to meet national defence requirements before considering exports of military-related products.
According to Hun Sen, Cambodia is currently studying and investing in additional sectors connected to defence and security production. However, he declined to provide details regarding the specific types of equipment or materials under consideration.
“We are investing in other areas related to national defence,” he said. “The means to defend the nation and the means necessary for national defence must be sufficient, and we must have the capability to produce them.”
The Acting Head of State also reaffirmed his commitment to supporting government efforts in defence logistics and supply systems, stating that he would continue contributing to the sector for as long as he remains active in public affairs.
His remarks come as Cambodia has increasingly emphasized strengthening domestic industrial capacity, including sectors linked to security, logistics and strategic infrastructure.
While officials have not disclosed specific future projects, Hun Sen indicated that expanding local manufacturing capabilities remains an important component of Cambodia’s long-term national security strategy.
