Thai Army Warns of Precision Strikes if Cambodia Deploys Long-Range Rockets
BANGKOK, Feb 27: The Royal Thai Army has cautioned that any use of Cambodia’s long-range PHL-03 rocket system against Thailand would prompt precise retaliatory strikes deeper inside Cambodian territory.
Army spokesperson Maj. Gen. Winthai Suvaree said intelligence assessments have so far detected no movement of Cambodia’s PHL-03 multiple-launch rocket systems near the Thai border. However, he stressed that deploying such weapons would be disproportionate to the current situation and could justify a stronger Thai response targeting significant sites beyond the immediate frontier.
The warning comes after a Thai soldier was critically injured in a landmine explosion on Friday morning in the Chong Rayi area of Kab Choeng district, Surin province, territory the Army says falls under Thai sovereignty.
According to Winthai, troops from the 233rd Infantry unit under the 2nd Army Area stepped on the device while carrying out routine duties at a base in the area. Fellow soldiers administered first aid before evacuating the injured serviceman to Surin Hospital, where he remains under close medical supervision. The Army has pledged full medical support and benefits for the wounded soldier.
Preliminary findings suggest the mine may have been buried deep beneath soil layered with accumulated wood fragments, leaves, and other natural debris over a prolonged period, making detection difficult. Recent rainfall may also have altered ground conditions, complicating identification efforts. A detailed fact-finding investigation is now underway.
Winthai said available information and local context indicate the device may have been planted before Cambodian forces withdrew from the area, allegedly with the intent to harm Thai personnel. He claimed Cambodian troops had previously entered and operated covertly in the location.
The army also believes additional landmines could remain scattered across multiple points, particularly in zones formerly occupied by Cambodian forces but now under Thai control. Despite ongoing inspections and clearance operations, unexploded devices continue to pose operational challenges.
Nevertheless, Winthai emphasized that the presence of landmines would not deter Thai forces from carrying out their responsibilities. Commanders have instructed units to increase vigilance, tighten inspection protocols, and intensify clearance efforts to ensure safety for both troops and civilians in border areas.
Addressing public concerns over reports that Cambodia may be repositioning PHL-03 rocket systems, the spokesperson reiterated that intelligence has not confirmed any such movement at a level that would escalate tensions.
He added that the use of long-range rocket systems, which extend far beyond border areas, would significantly strengthen Thailand’s justification to respond with precision strikes against critical targets deeper inside Cambodia, potentially resulting in severe and widespread damage.
“The Army remains ready at all times, with both ground and air capabilities, to defend the nation in every dimension,” Winthai said. He reaffirmed Thailand’s commitment to the existing ceasefire agreement and adherence to mutually agreed rules, while underscoring the priority of safeguarding military personnel and civilians along the frontier.