In a significant escalation of long-standing tensions, Thailand has carried out air strikes along its contentious border with Cambodia. The Thai military confirmed the action, which comes after both nations accused each other of violating a ceasefire agreement that was previously mediated by former U.S. President Donald Trump.
Ceasefire Shattered Amid Accusations
The fragile peace was broken following a series of incidents involving landmines. Thailand suspended de-escalation measures last month after a Thai soldier was severely injured by a mine. Bangkok alleges that these landmines were newly laid by Cambodian forces, a claim that Phnom Penh firmly rejects. This dispute has reignited a conflict that has simmered for years over the contested border territory.
A Comparative Look at Military Might
The confrontation pits two neighbours with asymmetric military capabilities against each other. On one side, Cambodia maintains a defence budget of $1.3 billion for 2024 and has 124,300 active military personnel. Its army, formed in 1993, is the largest branch with approximately 75,000 soldiers, supported by over 200 battle tanks and 480 artillery pieces.
In contrast, Thailand, classified as a major non-NATO ally by the United States, possesses a far larger and more modern military. Its defence budget for 2024 stands at $5.73 billion, funding an active armed force of over 360,000 personnel. The Thai army alone comprises 245,000 individuals, including about 115,000 conscripts, and is equipped with around 400 battle tanks, more than 1,200 armoured carriers, and some 2,600 artillery weapons.
Air and Naval Power Disparity
The disparity is even more pronounced in aerial and naval domains. Cambodia's air force, with 1,500 personnel, lacks fighter jets, operating a fleet of transport planes and helicopters, including 16 multi-role helicopters like the Soviet Mi-17 and Chinese Z-9.
Thailand's air force is one of Southeast Asia's most capable, with 46,000 personnel and 112 combat-capable aircraft. Its fleet includes advanced fighters such as 28 F-16s and 11 Swedish Gripen jets.
At sea, the Cambodian navy has about 2,800 personnel and a modest fleet. Thailand commands a formidable naval force of nearly 70,000 personnel, which includes an aircraft carrier, seven frigates, and 68 patrol vessels, underscoring its significant power projection advantage in the region.
The recent air strikes mark a dangerous new chapter in this border dispute, highlighting how historical tensions can quickly escalate despite international mediation efforts. The vast difference in military resources between the two countries adds a critical dimension to the stability of the region.
