Bangkok: The Royal Thai Air Force spokesperson has firmly denied allegations propagated by Cambodia regarding a Thai military operation. The spokesperson insisted that Thailand’s use of F-16 jets was a defensive measure against Cambodian military actions that threatened Thai sovereignty.
According to Thai News Agency, Air Vice Marshal Chakrit Thamwichai, speaking for the Royal Thai Air Force, addressed the dissemination of false news from Cambodia. He clarified that the confrontation began on July 24, 2015, when BM-21 multiple-barrel rockets were fired into Thailand’s Surin Province, resulting in two Thai fatalities and several injuries. In response to these attacks, the Royal Thai Air Force deployed F-16s to strike Cambodian military targets using high-precision bombs to minimize civilian impact. The operation was part of a coordinated effort by the Royal Thai Armed Forces to safeguard Thailand’s independence and protect its citizens.
Despite the precision-targeted military response, Cambodian forces conti
nued to bombard Thai civilian areas with rockets, necessitating sustained air operations. The aerial campaign concluded on the night of July 28, 2025, following a ceasefire agreement. The Air Force’s statement serves to counter Cambodian misinformation undermining Thai military actions. The Royal Thai Air Force reassures its citizens of its readiness to defend the nation at all times.
In response to inquiries about comments made by Senator Angkana Neelapaijit concerning the use of F-16 aircraft, Air Vice Marshal Chakrit Thamwichai clarified that the Air Force’s recent statements were not a reaction to Senator Angkana’s remarks but were intended to address and correct the false Cambodian reports. While Cambodia exploited Angkana’s comments to bolster its narrative, the Air Force emphasized that its operations were defensive, in line with Article 51 of the United Nations Charter.
Air Chief Marshal Chakrakrit reiterated, “We did not retaliate. The senator’s interview was misinterpreted by Cambodia as supportiv
e of their stance. We aim to prevent misunderstandings, particularly in international relations, suggesting we initiated the conflict. Our preparedness and swift air response were necessary and measured, targeting solely military objectives without excessive force.”