Bangkok: The Thai director of the Joint Information Center (JIC) between Thailand and Cambodia has dismissed reports claiming that Thai F-16 fighter jets violated Cambodian airspace during training exercises.
According to Thai News Agency, Air Chief Marshal Praphas Sonjaidee, who is also the Assistant Commander-in-Chief of the Royal Thai Air Force, provided clarification regarding the allegations. He stated that the reports were inaccurate and confirmed that the Royal Thai Air Force was performing standard training operations to maintain combat readiness, adhering to pre-established flight plans. The Air Operations Center of the Royal Thai Air Force operates a comprehensive control, monitoring, and management system for military aircraft around the clock. This includes an automatic surveillance and warning system activated when aircraft approach within 10 nautical miles of the border, enabling pilots to promptly adjust their flight paths and prevent any breach of neighboring countries' sovereignty. He affirmed that the training missions did not result in any border violations as claimed.
Air Chief Marshal Praphas urged all parties to rely on facts, use verifiable data, and avoid making provocative statements or accusations. He emphasized the importance of utilizing existing bilateral mechanisms to address and resolve such issues genuinely and respectfully.