Bangkok: The Royal Thai Navy launched Operation “Prachuap Khiri Khan – Prachantakhiri Khet” to protect Thai citizens from threats along the Gulf of Thailand coastline. Rear Admiral Parach Rattanachaiyapan, spokesperson for the Royal Thai Navy, clarified that on Saturday, December 13, 2025, between 0100 and 0300 hrs, the First Naval Area Command launched Operation ‘Prachuap Khiri Khan – Prachantakhiri Khet’ by the ‘Gulf of Thailand Protection’ Task Force to carry out maritime security missions, protect sovereignty, and ensure the safety of Thai citizens along the Gulf of Thailand coastline.
According to Thai News Agency, the operation aimed to reduce and cripple Cambodia’s military capabilities in Koh Kong province, particularly military positions on Koh Yo, which were identified as artillery bases with a firing range extending to the Ban Hat Lek community in Khlong Yai district, Trat province-an area under the responsibility of the Royal Thai Navy where units are stationed.
Based on intelligence reports, surveillance, and target identification, four cannons were found positioned on the aforementioned island, prepared for attacking Thai forces. The Gulf of Thailand Task Force therefore initiated an operation according to plan. Naval forces secured the maritime area, attacking detected military targets, including the cannon positions and command buildings, to limit and reduce their capability in threatening the security and safety of the Thai people. During the operation, the Cambodian side immediately retaliated. At 02:30, the Thai naval forces ceased their attack and withdrew from the area.
The Royal Thai Navy confirmed that this operation was for self-defense in accordance with international law and practice. It specifically targeted military installations that posed a direct threat to the public and national security, in line with the right to self-defense. The use of force was deemed necessary and proportionate, and the navy remains committed to protecting national sovereignty and the safety of its citizens.