The Navy has revealed the launch of the "Prachuap Khiri Khan–Prachantakhirikhet" operation, with the Special Task Force "Protect Gulf of Thailand" conducting maritime missions to reduce threats after detecting Cambodian soldiers establishing four artillery bases on Ko Yo, with firing ranges covering communities in Trat Province.
On 13 December 2025, Rear Admiral Parach Rattanachaiphan, Navy spokesperson, explained that on Saturday, 13 December 2025, between 01:00 and 03:00, the First Naval Area Command launched the "Prachuap Khiri Khan–Prachantakhirikhet" operation, deploying the Special Task Force "Protect Gulf of Thailand" to carry out maritime security duties, protect sovereignty, and ensure the safety of Thai citizens along the Gulf of Thailand coastline.
The operation aims to diminish and undermine the military capabilities of Cambodian forces in Koh Kong Province, especially their military positions on Ko Yo, where artillery bases have been detected with firing ranges reaching Ban Hat Lek community in Khlong Yai District, Trat Province—an area under Thai naval jurisdiction with stationed military units.
Intelligence, surveillance, and target verification revealed four artillery guns positioned on Ko Yo, prepared for attacks against Thai forces. The Special Task Force "Protect Gulf of Thailand" initiated the planned operation, with naval forces securing maritime areas and striking identified military targets, including artillery positions and command buildings, to limit and reduce threats to Thailand's security and public safety. During the operation, Cambodian forces immediately retaliated until 02:30 when Thai naval forces ceased fire and withdrew from the area.
The Navy affirmed that this operation was conducted as self-defense in accordance with legal principles and international practices. It targeted only military positions directly threatening the public and national security, exercising the Right to Self-Defense proportionately and necessarily, while maintaining a commitment to protect sovereignty and public safety as the foremost priority.