NCT PRO Challenge 2025: A Week of Real Training in Hua Hin

The NCT PRO Challenge returned to Hua Hin this year, delivering one of the strongest training weeks the region has seen. The event brought together operators from across the Indo-Pacific, along with teams from the United States. The official press release confirmed that more than 190 personnel from 35 units took part, making this the largest NCT PRO event held in Thailand so far.

Training Built Around Reality, Not Slides

The NCT PRO Challenge is designed for those who learn by doing. The week focuses on practical, scenario-driven training rather than classroom sessions. Teams rotate through missions that test their skills in EOD, CBRNE, SOF, SWAT, and first-responder roles. Instructors from several countries bring a wide range of operational experience.

A key part of the event is the involvement of industry partners. Operators get hands-on time with new equipment and can put it through its paces in realistic conditions. Industry teams gain direct feedback from the people who will use their kit in the field. This exchange is beneficial for both sides.

A Bigger Turnout Than Ever Before

This year’s event hosted 34 teams from Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, South Korea, and the United States. Personnel came from the Army, Navy, Air Force, Police, and government agencies. To manage the scale of the event, the week was organised into six Task Forces. Each group included a mix of capabilities such as SWAT, EOD, SOF, drone operations, CBRN(E), forensics, intelligence, and medical support. Over 200 people contributed to these task forces throughout the week.

How the Week Ran

The event opened with an icebreaker. This allowed teams to meet, settle in, and prepare for the week ahead.

Technology Day

Technology Day took place at the Royal Thai Border Patrol Police’s Naresuan Base. This location offered power, shade, and space for demonstrations. Teams were able to speak directly with industry partners and get familiar with the equipment they would see later in the scenarios.

Main Training Phase

The main training phase ran at the Jangyodsuk Tactical Training Base, about 40 minutes from Hua Hin. The site allowed for a wide range of scenarios, including standoff and step-back shots when required. Task Forces moved between locations in the morning and afternoon, ensuring that each team faced a varied set of challenges.

Final Challenge and Social Event

Friday was reserved for the local teams. They participated in the final NCT PRO Challenge, which brought together the skills developed earlier in the week. The day concluded with a closing social event.

On Saturday afternoon, senior leaders met to review the week, share lessons, and discuss future cooperation.

NCT Pro Challenge Participant Setting Up Vulkan

NCT Pro Challenge Participant Setting Up Vulkan in Thailand

NCT Pro Challenge Participant Preparing Vulkan

Chris Hawthorne and an NCT Pro Challenge Participant

NCT Pro Challenge Participant Setting Up Vulkan for a Water Shot

An NCT Pro Challenge Participant Sporting the RDS brand!

NCT Pro Challenge Participants Learning More about Vulkan

Inoke Veikune Showing The Capabilities of Vulkan to NCT Pro Challenge Participants

Chris Hawothorne Posing with Vulkan and One of the NCT Pro Challenge Participants

Chris Hawthorne Running Through Details of Vulkan with NCT Pro Challenge Participants.

Chris Hawthorne Running Through Details of Vulkan with NCT Pro Challenge Participants in Thailand

Two NCT Pro Challenge Participants Setting Up Vulkan

Chris Hawthorne and an NCT Pro Challenge Participant Posing with the Vulkan EOD Disruptor

Chris Hawthorne and and NCT Pro Challenge Participant at a Presentation in Thailand

Strengthening Capability Across the Region

The 2025 Challenge reinforced the value of regional cooperation. Southeast Asia continues to face complex security challenges. Events like NCT PRO help build capability, improve interoperability, and strengthen relationships between operators, instructors, and industry specialists.

For organisations seeking practical, equipment-led training, we provide immersive sessions as part of every product package. Connect with us to learn how we can support your teams either at our location or yours.