Thailand Uses Oplot and Bomber Drones Against Cambodia

Thailand has used Ukrainian-made armored vehicles and elements of Ukrainian combat tactics during clashes with Cambodia.

The relevant materials were published online, in particular by the Clash Report and Defence Blog projects.

It is noted that during the storming of the Cambodian army’s positions near the Phra Vihan military base, Thai troops used Ukrainian-made main battle tanks BM Oplot.

This is the first combat use of this type of tank by Thailand. In fact, this is the baptism of fire for the Oplot BM.

For reference: The Armed Forces of Ukraine have not used these tanks in combat. The exception is the T-84 Oplot.

In addition, the Thai military demonstrated the use of a heavy multi-copter attack drone with unguided munitions.

The released footage shows the successful defeat of Cambodian targets, but at the end of the video, the drone probably gets hit by its own munition and catches fire.

It is also possible that the fire was caused by a malfunctioning munition.

Clashes between Thailand and Cambodia

On the morning of July 24, fighting broke out between Thailand and Cambodia. Both sides exchanged air and artillery strikes.

According to reports, the Thai military claimed that Cambodian forces fired on their base near the ancient temple of Ta Muen Thom, located on the disputed section of the border – in the southern part of the Thai province of Surin and in northwestern Cambodia.

The Thai side claims that the Cambodian military first launched drones in the area of the temple, and then deployed armed units. The Cambodian side denies this, insisting that it was Thai soldiers who first opened fire.

Cambodian troops are also accused of using heavy weapons on a residential area in the district of Kap Choeng, Surin province. There are reports of civilian casualties.

In response, F-16 fighters of the Royal Thai Air Force conducted a series of air strikes on the positions of the Cambodian army.