Thailand Deploys M48 Tanks in Combat Operations Against Cambodia

Thailand has deployed M48 Patton main battle tanks, originally designed in the mid-1950s, in its military operations against Cambodia, which intensified last week.

Videos of their movements have been posted by local residents.

Other footage shows them firing armor-piercing ammunition at Cambodian positions.

The Royal Thai Army has M48 Patton tanks in the M48A5PI modification in service. About a hundred such tanks were purchased from the US in the late 1970s.

The modernization includes the installation of a 105 mm gun, a fire control system, updated sights, a rangefinder, etc.

In the 1970s, while in service with the US Army, the tanks received improved armor.

For over 20 years, the M48A5 was the main battle tank of the Royal Thai Army until it was replaced by the M60 and later by more modern models.

After the intensification of hostilities between Thailand and Cambodia, locals filmed them moving along a jungle road:

Later, footage appeared showing tank fire in a mountainous area, allegedly from the positions of Cambodian forces:

They are opposed by Soviet-made T-55 tanks in the Cambodian army.

In the Thai army, the M48 Patton is not one of the oldest models; until recently, the M41A3 Walker Bulldog was in service. Their country received them in the 1960s.

The last unit to use the M41A3 was the 4th Cavalry Battalion of the 1st Royal Guard Brigade.