Royal Thai Air Force Asserts Readiness Amid Tensions with Cambodia

Bangkok: The Royal Thai Air Force has acknowledged provocations from Cambodia on multiple occasions, yet it remains steadfast in its commitment to defend national sovereignty in accordance with humanitarian principles. Air Vice Marshal Chakrit Thamvichai, spokesperson for the Royal Thai Air Force, disclosed the ongoing situation along the Thai-Cambodian border, emphasizing that the Air Force continues its regular missions with heightened vigilance since the announcement of the second ceasefire. He assured that all branches of the armed forces are prepared to protect Thailand's airspace and sovereignty.

According to Thai News Agency, there have been two or three instances of provocation from the Cambodian side, notably a recent incident involving a "fire winner" device, which the Thai side considers a violation of agreed terms. Despite efforts to maintain calm and prevent escalation, such acts are deemed unacceptable.

A spokesperson for the Royal Thai Air Force expressed that assessing the future situation remains challenging but reassured the public that operations prioritize safety and adhere strictly to humanitarian principles. The Air Force targets only military personnel involved in combat, avoiding attacks on civilians, which aligns with Cambodian reports that found no civilian fatalities.

Regarding military preparedness, the Air Force confirms sufficient readiness for the next 2-3 years, with plans for continuous equipment replacement. This readiness is a collaborative effort among the armed forces, government, Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and Ministry of Defence, reflecting a united "Team Thailand" approach to maintaining national security against diverse threats.