Thailand Enhances Landmine Clearing with US Support and New Facility

Photo courtesy of Bangkok Post

Thailand is stepping up its efforts to clear deadly landmines, transforming hazardous areas into safe farmland with substantial assistance from the US military. The Thailand Mine Action Centre (TMAC), in collaboration with the United States Department of Defence, inaugurated a cutting-edge Centre of Excellence on Humanitarian Demining Missions on May 27, setting a significant milestone in eliminating regional landmine threats.

The unveiling ceremony, attended by high-ranking officials from both nations, highlighted the enduring US–Thai defence partnership and international cooperation. Adding to this milestone, the US Department of Defence Humanitarian Demining Research and Development (HD R&D) Programme presented TMAC with a GCS-200 de-mining machine, enhancing Thailand’s demining capabilities. US Marines from the 3rd Explosive Ordnance Disposal Company have been in Thailand, conducting training sessions on the new equipment until May 30.

The newly opened centre will serve as a pivotal training hub for Thai troops and landmine clearance teams, with support from the Marine Forces Pacific (MARFORPAC) Humanitarian Mine Action Programme. TMAC plans to further international cooperation by inviting mine action organisations for joint training sessions, fostering a global effort in mine clearance.

Since 2012, cooperation between US Marines and TMAC under MARFORPAC has resulted in extensive training in mine detection, removal, and casualty care. The US has consistently supplied TMAC with advanced tools and machinery, including MineWolf systems and Minelab detectors, bolstering Thailand’s demining endeavours.

The introduction of sophisticated medical tools and funding for facility improvements have transformed the centre into a regional leader in mine clearance. This cooperative mission fortifies safety for Thai communities, while simultaneously enhancing US Marine readiness through practical training scenarios.

Lieutenant Colonel Johnny Kieu commented on the centre’s significance, stating, “This centre is more than a facility, it is a symbol of our shared commitment to a safer future.” The collaboration advances Thailand’s security and humanitarian initiatives, promoting stability across the region.

Beyond saving lives, landmine removal revitalises land, boosting local economies by returning arable land to communities. Thailand's leadership in humanitarian mine action is garnering international recognition, underscoring the transformative impact of these efforts on both a national and regional scale.

  Adapted by ASEAN Now from The Thaiger 2025-05-29