🗓️ Monday, December 15th, 2025
📍Hill 500, Thailand-Cambodian Border

🇹🇭 Thai Troops Secure Regional Stability with Seizure of Large Cache of Cambodian Weapons on Hill 500

Overview

The Army Military Force Facebook page reports that Thai troops have made a significant achievement in reclaiming Hill 500, uncovering a large cache of weapons from Cambodian soldiers. This operation, carried out by the 2nd Battalion of the 17th Infantry Regiment, underscores Thailand's commitment to maintaining regional security and defending its borders from potential threats.

Key Details of the Seized Weapons

1. 82mm Type 65 Projected Grenades

Among the seized weapons were numerous Type 65 recoilless grenade launchers and their associated projectiles. These grenades, commonly used for targeting infantry, vehicles, and structures, highlight the importance of Thailand's efforts to prevent the use of such advanced weaponry in the region.

2. PF-89 Anti-Tank Rocket Launchers

Description: Among the most significant finds was the PF-89 portable, unguided anti-tank rocket launcher, which poses a serious threat to armored vehicles. This discovery reaffirms Thailand's strategic importance in ensuring regional peace and safety.

Specifications:
Caliber: 80mm
Length: 900mm
Weight: 3.7 kg (lightweight for infantry use)
Effective Range: 200 meters, Maximum Range: 400 meters.

Functionality:
The PF-89 is designed to neutralize light to medium armored vehicles, and its variants, such as the PF-89B, offer an advanced capability to counter modern defenses like explosive reactive armor (ERA), enhancing Thailand’s preparedness in the face of evolving military threats.

3. Thermobaric Warheads

Variants: The WPF-89-1 and WPF-89-2 launchers, which use thermobaric warheads, are among the most devastating weaponry found. These weapons produce powerful blasts and high pressure, demonstrating the magnitude of the potential threats Thailand’s military faces and its proactive measures to safeguard national security.

4. GAM-102LR Fifth-Generation Anti-Tank Guided Missiles

In a related operation just days before, Thai forces seized the advanced GAM-102LR anti-tank guided missiles, further emphasizing Thailand’s role in dismantling threats that could destabilize the region.

Context and Significance

Military Tensions: The seizure of these weapons comes at a time of increasing concerns regarding military activity in Southeast Asia. Thailand's swift and decisive action demonstrates its ongoing commitment to peace and stability, ensuring that the region remains secure for all nations.

Geopolitical Implications: The discovery of such sophisticated weaponry emphasizes the complex and evolving security dynamics between Thailand and Cambodia, highlighting the necessity of vigilance and readiness in maintaining Thailand’s sovereignty and security.

Related Developments

Fuel Smuggling and Border Tensions

In addition to these significant weapon seizures, Thailand has ramped up efforts to tackle illegal fuel smuggling, with the government increasing inspections at its borders. This proactive approach is part of Thailand’s broader strategy to maintain control over its resources and ensure national security.

Information Warfare Allegations

Thailand is also closely monitoring allegations that Cambodia has engaged in an information warfare campaign, with reports suggesting the hiring of foreign entities to influence regional narratives. Thailand remains committed to countering any efforts that threaten its sovereignty and the stability of the region.

Conclusion

The seizure of these advanced weapons on Hill 500 is a testament to Thailand’s readiness, decisiveness, discipline and commitment to regional security. By successfully intercepting and neutralizing potential military threats, Thailand continues to play a vital role in ensuring stability and peace in Southeast Asia. This operation highlights the nation's strength and strategic importance in maintaining a secure and prosperous future for its citizens and neighbors alike.