Picture courtesy of Khaosod.

 

The Royal Thai Air Force (RTAF) deployed two F-16 fighter jets in an emergency operation after detecting a high-performance aircraft approaching Thai airspace near the western border province of Kanchanaburi.

 

According to an official statement posted on the Royal Thai Air Force’s social media page, the urgent mission was launched at 12:42 on 16 May, when radar systems detected an aircraft resembling a K-8 attack jetheading towards Thai territory. The jets were scrambled from Wing 4 in Takhli, Nakhon Sawan, with orders to intercept and identify the aircraft.

 

This incident mirrors a similar situation earlier in the month. On 6 May 2025, Thai air defence systems detected an unidentified aircraft near the border opposite Mueang District, Kanchanaburi Province. At the time, the RTAF also launched two F-16 fighters from Wing 4 to intercept the aircraft and demonstrate a deterrent posture.

 

Following the interception, air patrols were conducted over Mueang and Sai Yok districts to ensure continued aerial security in the region.

 

The deployment of fighter aircraft underscores heightened vigilance in the region amid concerns over border incursions and unauthorised aerial activity.

 

  Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-05-17.

 

 

 

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