The Air Force Commander revealed that on the one-year anniversary of the Thai-Cambodian border incident, the three military branches are well-prepared, accelerating technology development to keep up with changes and protect residents along the border.
On 24 July 2026, Air Chief Marshal Sek San Kantha, Commander of the Royal Thai Air Force, spoke about the first anniversary of the unrest at the Thai-Cambodian border. He stated that during the past year, the military has learned from the incident—including lessons, experiences, and some errors—which have been used to improve and enhance preparedness.
Air Chief Marshal Sek Santha said that technology today changes rapidly—not over years but within just a few days. Therefore, the military must keep up and understand modern technology. If unable to develop it independently, they must engage and learn from those with advanced technology to adapt that knowledge, aiming eventually for self-reliance in areas the military trusts.
Currently, all three military branches are thoroughly prepared. The security forces do not adopt an optimistic outlook but always assume that if an incident occurs today, at this minute or hour, they must be able to respond effectively to the situation.
Particularly important is protecting the people living along the border and overseeing personnel operating in the area to prevent them from being victimized or allowing the situation to escalate into inner territories—something all three branches are constantly aware of and preparing for.
Director of the Thai-Cambodian Situation Information Center Affirms Thailand's Compliance with UN Charter
Meanwhile, Air Chief Marshal Praphas Sonjaidee, Assistant Commander of the Royal Thai Air Force and Director of the Thai-Cambodian Situation Information Center, stated that the July 20, 2025 incident provided many lessons leading to a second round of clashes from 8 to 27 December. Currently, we adhere to joint statements and emphasize that Thailand neither initiated the conflict nor harmed Cambodian civilians. Today marks the anniversary of the loss of innocent Thai civilians during an armed attack with BM 21 weapons at a gas station in Kantharalak District, Sisaket Province. On behalf of the Information Center, we express condolences and reflect on these events. We will continue to operate and protect thoroughly. The Information Center's evening briefing will present factual, non-inflammatory information. The joint statement highlights key points: building trust before negotiations; clearing landmines and explosives to ensure safety for upcoming JBC talks and other processes; and combating global threats like scammers, requiring all agencies' serious cooperation. We reiterate to the public and media that the joint statement clearly states that as of July 17, military positions are fixed, with Thailand maintaining control to ensure the safety of Thai civilians and soldiers. We will wait for bilateral talks as emphasized by the Prime Minister, the Foreign Minister, and the Defense Minister, who have all stressed adherence to Cambodia's choice to use the UNCLOS process, which Thailand respects. If incidents arise, we are ready to pursue peace for both peoples. However, trust has yet to be established, as Cambodia has repeatedly shown insincerity by making accusations and distortions against Thailand in various forums.
It was emphasized that Thailand did not initiate attacks nor seek war. All of Thailand's actions comply with the United Nations Charter, Article 51, on self-defense. The use of force by the Air Force, Army, and Navy is conducted under international law, with civilian protection as a priority. Proportionality is observed, and no country has condemned Thailand because the operations are conducted professionally.