Thai Military Dispatches F-16s and Gripens Along Border Due to defensive Measures Cited
Thailand's Royal Thai Air Force Engages in Border Conflict Operations
In the heated Thai-Cambodia border conflict of 2025, the Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) played a significant role in defending Thailand's territorial sovereignty. The conflict, which erupted near the Preah Vihear Temple and the Chong Bok pass, resulted in numerous casualties and displaced over 300,000 civilians.
The RTAF's involvement was justified under the UN Charter's Article 51, recognising the inherent right of states to individual or collective self-defence in response to an armed attack. This legal basis allowed the RTAF to deploy its F-16 and Gripen fighter jets in combat support missions along the border.
The RTAF's operations were meticulously planned and executed, with a focus on destroying enemy weapon depots and combat control centres. These preparations were crucial for ensuring accurate decision-making and minimising losses during the engagements. The RTAF's actions were carried out both day and night, providing continuous support to the Royal Thai Army from July 24th to the 28th.
Air Marshal Prapas, the head of the RTAF, reassured the public that the force's use of air power adhered to international law, exercising its right to self-defence. The RTAF's air assets engaged in ground support missions, conducting precise strikes on military targets deemed a threat to Thailand's security.
The RTAF's operations were undertaken amidst heightened tensions on the frontier to safeguard national sovereignty, mitigate risks to civilians, and establish strategic conditions conducive to ongoing peace negotiations. The mission's success was attributed to systematic readiness, including rigorous training, integrated joint command and control systems, and seamless data linking with the RTAF Operations Centre.
The RTAF's commitment to the principles of proportionality, necessity, and distinction between military and civilian targets was emphasized throughout the operations. The force released a statement titled "Air Force Stands Firm for Thailand," underscoring its unwavering commitment to national security. The RTAF expressed gratitude to the public for their trust and support during this crucial period.
Despite the temporary ceasefire agreement on July 28, 2025, underlying tensions persist. The international community continues to closely monitor the situation, hoping for a lasting resolution to the longstanding territorial disputes.
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