Thai Ministry Ready to Deploy Anti-Drone Systems
Defense Ministry spokesperson Rear Adm. Surasant Kongsiri states Thailand is ready to counter border drone provocations, calling Nong Chan repatriation internal politics.
Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event
- Defense Ministry views the repatriation of Cambodians to Nong Chan, Sa Kaeo, as internal politics.
- Thailand is prepared with anti-drone systems and formal protest letters against border drone incursions.
- Bilateral mechanisms like JBC and GBC remain the sole framework for resolving Thai-Cambodian issues.
The Thai Ministry of Defense has addressed ongoing border tensions, stating that reports of Cambodian citizens preparing to evacuate back to Ban Nong Chan in Sa Kaeo province require thorough verification. Government representatives have previously engaged in discussions with various international counterparts regarding the situation.
Speaking at The Athenee Hotel on Witthayu Road on August 17, 2026, Defense Ministry Spokesperson Rear Adm. Surasant Kongsiri emphasized that all disputes between Thailand and Cambodia are strictly bilateral matters. He noted that international allies agree these issues should be resolved through bilateral talks without foreign interference, pointing out that existing mechanisms such as the Joint Boundary Commission (JBC) and General Border Committee (GBC) are fully prepared for border demarcation discussions.
Stock photo for illustration only, not from the actual event
Regarding Cambodian drone flights along the border and reports of their anti-drone usage, Rear Adm. Surasant stated that Thai border forces have formally issued protest letters. He assured the public that Thailand maintains robust counter-drone defense systems, supported by private sector capabilities, though technical specifics will not be publicly disclosed.
The Joint Boundary Commission (JBC) and General Border Committee (GBC) serve as critical diplomatic and security frameworks for managing territorial disputes along the Thai-Cambodian border. Emphasizing these bilateral channels highlights Thailand's preference for institutionalized dialogue and adherence to international law over escalation, aiming to maintain regional stability.
Meanwhile, formal JBC talks remain stalled as Cambodian authorities have yet to demonstrate readiness, with Thailand pointing to violations of the Joint Statement signed on December 27, 2025. Deputy Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Sihasak Phuangketkeow previously noted ongoing provocations, including drone disruptions, which undermine bilateral sincerity.
Despite stalled national-level talks, local border military units, including the Burapha and Suranaree Task Forces, continue to maintain constructive dialogue through regional border committees (RBC), signaling positive grassroots relations. Additionally, the upcoming Angkor Sentinel military exercise between Cambodia and the U.S. is viewed primarily as disaster relief training and a matter of sovereign right, with the Ministry assuring the public of continuous monitoring and readiness to counter any cross-border threats.
Source: Khaosod Politics
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