Thai Military Denies Cambodia's Explosive Allegation
In a recent discovery, a 2,000-pound MK-84 bomb was unearthed in a residential area in Cambodia, causing concern and sparking a debate between Thai and Cambodian authorities over its origin [1][2].
The Phnom Penh Post initially reported that the bomb was linked to Gripen fighter jets used by the Thai air force during border clashes. However, this claim was debunked by AVM Prapas, the RTAF spokesman [3]. The Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) maintains that the bomb was not dropped from a Thai plane during the recent clashes [4].
The MK-84 bomb, manufactured by US-based General Dynamics, is an old device, heavily corroded and buried beneath civilian housing for an extended period [3][4]. AVM Prapas also noted that the bomb did not look like an air-dropped bomb due to its depth and horizontal placement [5].
Thailand’s denial persists, with officials emphasizing the need to verify facts and counter misinformation. The Thai air force uses new shells in perfect condition, as stated by AVM Prapas [6]. Thailand is also careful about allowing foreign military attachés on site due to security concerns [2].
The Cambodian Mine Action Centre (CMAC) and other sources have presented evidence supporting that the MK-84 bomb was dropped by Thai F-16s during the border clashes. However, the RTAF denies these allegations, stating the bomb was not theirs and challenging the claims of its recent use by Thailand [1][5].
The investigation status on the origin of the old MK-84 bomb found in a Cambodian border community remains disputed. Both parties are handling border incidents carefully, with attention to ceasefire agreements [2]. The situation is still evolving, with ongoing investigations and diplomatic sensitivity regarding border stability and military incidents.
References:
- The Phnom Penh Post
- Bangkok Post
- Khaosod English
- Cambodia Daily
- Voice of America
- Bangkok Post
- The ongoing debate between Thai and Cambodian authorities over the origin of the MK-84 bomb has been fueled by both parties' claims, with the Thai air force using politics to counter misinformation and maintain their stance that the bomb was not dropped during recent clashes.
- Amidst general-news reports suggesting that the MK-84 bomb discovered in Cambodia was dropped by Thai F-16s during border clashes, the Royal Thai Air Force maintains a careful stance, emphasizing the need for verification and holding back on allowing foreign military attachés on site due to security concerns.
