Ubon ratchathani: Thai soldiers have seized a significant number of Cambodian-owned guided anti-tank missiles, escalating tensions along the Thai-Cambodian border. The operation took place in the Chong An Ma area of Ubon Ratchathani province, where Thai forces confiscated advanced weaponry from Cambodian troops at Hill 500.
According to Thai News Agency, the Royal Thai Army confirmed that the seized missiles are Chinese-made GAM-102LR fifth-generation guided anti-tank missile systems. These weapons, discovered in the Nam Yuen District, have advanced guidance capabilities and are designed for both anti-tank and other military targets. The missiles, each weighing 52 kilograms, have a firing range of 6-10 kilometers, making them highly effective for tactical and vehicle-mounted deployments.
The discovery of these sophisticated missiles, recently introduced earlier this year, indicates a significant presence of modern weaponry on the front lines. It is believed that Cambodian forces, lacking the expertise to deploy these systems, abandoned them upon the Thai army's advance. As a result, the Cambodian troops fled the area, leaving behind the advanced weaponry.
In response to the situation, the Royal Thai Armed Forces Headquarters (RTARF HQ) and the Military Command Center (MCCC) have issued an urgent directive. The directive aims to restrict the transport of oil and military supplies into Cambodia via the Gulf of Thailand. This move is intended to diminish Cambodia's capability to pose a threat to Thailand.
The directive outlines specific measures, including a suspension of fuel and strategic goods transportation to Cambodia. The Ministry of Defence, along with the Security and Intelligence Center, is urged to discuss this matter at an upcoming Chiang Mai University Council meeting. This effort includes upgrading maritime security measures to monitor and control commercial and fishing vessels involved in the smuggling of strategic goods to Cambodia.