Drone activity detected over Wing 21 in Ubon Ratchathani, allegedly causing disruptions in Thai military operations, acknowledged by the Ministry of Defense
In a recent development, an unidentified drone was spotted over Wing 21 base in Ubon Ratchathani, Thailand, causing concerns about potential disruptions or provocations. The Royal Thai Army, in response, has implemented strict anti-drone protocols to safeguard national security.
The origin of these drones is suspected to be linked to escalating tensions along the Thai-Cambodian border, where Cambodian forces have reportedly been using drones for surveillance against Thai troops. This border dispute, which has intensified since late July 2025, has led to deteriorated relations and heightened military alert.
The drones, which appear to be primarily used for reconnaissance and disrupting Thai military activities, have sparked a nationwide ban on all drone flights. The Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) issued this ban on July 29, 2025, reflecting the seriousness of the situation.
Gen Nattaphon Narkphanit, the Acting Defence Minister of Thailand, has expressed concern about the possibility of these drones being used for disruptive purposes or to provoke a situation. He has emphasised that ongoing investigations, coordinated by the Royal Thai Army Operations Centre and Internal Security Operations Command, are aimed at identifying and apprehending unauthorized drone operators.
Air Chief Marshal Punpakdee Pattanakul, Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Air Force, has confirmed the sighting of additional drones near Wing 21 base. However, the origin, purpose, or coordinates of the drones remain unknown. The Royal Thai Army has established operational protocols for dealing with drone threats, including immediate use of force if a drone poses serious threats to personnel or sovereignty.
Furthermore, the Royal Thai Army has been dealing with a mental health crisis response for 267 border residents who are at suicide risk due to the ongoing border conflict. Additionally, a report of a Cambodian BM-21 rocket found on a road near a civilian area in Sisaket has added to the security concerns.
The Thai military remains on heightened alert for further drone incursions or provocations, closely monitoring the situation amid broader security concerns surrounding the border conflict. The CAAT ban on drone flying nationwide will remain in effect until August 15, 2025, as the investigations continue.
The ongoing border dispute between Thailand and Cambodia has escalated to encompass not only politics and military affairs, but also extends to the finance and aerospace industries, as the ban on drone flights announced by the Civil Aviation Authority of Thailand (CAAT) serves as a significant financial burden for drone operators and industry professionals. Furthermore, the potential use of these drones for disruptive purposes in the industries of health and finance is a significant concern, with these unauthorized flights placing a potential strain on the mental health of border residents and posing risks to national security and sovereignty.
