In recent hours, F-16 Fighting Falcon jets from the Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) were deployed in the latest attacks against Cambodia, targeting military positions. The strikes followed an intense border clash that left at least ten dead and more than 30 wounded. This marks the most serious incident between the two nations in over a decade and the first time Thailand has employed fighter jets in a precision strike—signaling a significant escalation in hostilities.
According to information released so far, the deployment involved six F-16s, one of which reportedly carried out the attack around midday today, striking Cambodian military positions in the Ta Moan Thom area, near the disputed 817-kilometer border between the two countries. Bangkok characterized the action as a “precision strike,” marking the first use of air power in the ongoing clashes—a turning point in the scale of the conflict.
The Royal Thai Air Force operates a sizable and diverse fleet, focused on maintaining air superiority in regional scenarios. It currently fields around 47 F-16A/B Fighting Falcons, some of which have undergone modernization, forming the core of its combat power. These are complemented by older F-5 fighters and more modern Saab JAS 39 Gripen C/D jets acquired in the last decade, which are integrated into a broader air defense network that includes Saab 340 AEW&C early warning and control aircraft equipped with Erieye radar systems.
Recent images and footage circulating through open-source intelligence platforms suggest that the F-16s involved were armed with 500-lb Mark 82 bombs fitted with Lizard III guidance kits. Analysts noted that this operation showcased Thailand’s capability—and willingness—to quickly project air power in hostile areas during times of regional tension. In contrast, Cambodia condemned the strikes as a “premeditated military aggression” and has appealed to the UN Security Council for intervention.
While both governments accuse each other of initiating the hostilities, the violence erupted after weeks of tension, fueled by the placement of landmines and the progressive deterioration of diplomatic relations. Armed clashes escalated rapidly, evolving from small arms fire to heavy artillery exchanges across at least six contested points along a 200-kilometer stretch of the border—territory that has remained disputed for decades.
Interim Thai Prime Minister Phumtham Wechayachai stated that his government would act in accordance with international law. However, local sources reported that the suspension of Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra—following the leak of a phone call with former Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Sen—has triggered a political storm that is further complicating crisis management. Hun Sen, for his part, claimed in a Facebook post that the Cambodian provinces of Oddar Meanchey and Preah Vihear were also bombed by Thai forces.
You may also like: The Royal Thai Air Force selects the Saab Gripen E/F as the replacement for its aging F-16 Block 15 fighter jets
