<p>The Thai monarchy&rsquo;s influence and role in politics have for decades been debated in academic circles and on the street. Under the current reign, the focus of analysis has shifted from the old network to a new one that is gradually becoming clearer - the military.</p>

<p>Recent visits from the US Secretary of State and Secretary of Defence mark a shift in US-Thai relations as the Biden administration seeks re-engagement with its longtime ally amidst increased US-China competition and heightened tensions in the Indo-Pacific region.</p>