Pictures courtesy of Naewna

 

Thai Army sources confirmed on Sunday, 14 Decembe, that troops seized a significant number of Chinese-made, fifth-generation anti-tank guided missiles after capturing a Cambodian military base on a strategic position known as Hill 500. The weapons were recovered following an assault on the base, with the discovery highlighting the presence of advanced heavy weaponry in the border conflict area. The seizure is regarded as a major development on the Thai–Cambodian frontier, particularly in the ongoing clashes along the border.

 

According to the Royal Thai Army source, the system identified was the GAM-102LR anti-tank guided missile, a newly introduced Chinese weapon unveiled earlier this year. The missiles were taken from Cambodian forces stationed on Hill 500 after Thai troops successfully overran and secured the position. The source stated that the weapons were abandoned during the retreat, allowing Thai forces to secure them intact.

 

The GAM-102LR is classified as a fifth-generation anti-tank guided missile system, designed for high-precision engagements against armoured vehicles and other military targets. It features advanced guidance technology and flexible deployment options, with a standard firing range of approximately six to ten kilometres. The weapon system is considered modern and highly capable, representing a notable escalation in the type of arms found in the area.

 

The missiles are manufactured in China by Poly Defence, part of the GAM or Bolas weapons family. They can be deployed by infantry units during tactical assaults or mounted on military vehicles, increasing their versatility on the battlefield. Military sources noted that the discovery represents one of the most significant findings of heavy and modern weaponry in the current frontline operations.

 

Sources further indicated that Cambodian troops at the base were likely not fully proficient in operating the system. This lack of operational familiarity, combined with the rapid advance by Thai forces, is believed to have contributed to the decision to abandon the weapons while withdrawing from the position. Thai troops were therefore able to seize the missiles without resistance at the site.

 

Naewna reported that the discovery underscores ongoing tensions along the Thai–Cambodian border and raises questions about the level of military capability deployed in contested areas. It also places renewed focus on the evolving nature of the conflict and the types of weapon systems being introduced into frontline positions by both sides.

 

 

Key Takeaways

 

• Thai troops seized Chinese-made GAM-102LR anti-tank missiles after capturing Hill 500 on 14 December.

• The fifth-generation ATGM system has a standard range of six to ten kilometres and was unveiled earlier this year.

• The weapons were reportedly abandoned as Cambodian forces withdrew from the base.

 

Related Stories

 

Thailand-rules-out-ceasefire-until-Cambodia-ends-hostilities

 

 

 Adapted by Asean Now from Naewna 2025-12-15

 

 

So what, Cambodia is a client state of China, what's new ?

There we have it. China has no intention to put a stop to this. Not that anybody suspected such thing.

Any comments from the Chinese Ambassador in Thailand?

 

Maybe a misunderstanding or fake labelling?

UPDATE
Army Region 2 Flags Fuel Export Surge at Chong Mek Border

 

Picture courtesy of Khaosod 

 

The Second Army Region (Army Region 2) has reported unusually high preparations to export fuel at the permanent Chong Mek border crossing, prompting authorities to order checks and ask the public to remain vigilant, as clashes continued along the Thai–Cambodian border. The situation has led to heightened security measures and public alerts in border provinces.

 

According to the Army Region 2 Operations Centre, the alert follows images circulating online showing fuel export activity at Chong Mek in Ubon Ratchathani that appeared abnormal compared with previous periods. The Internal Security Operations Command (ISOC) Region 2 has instructed ISOC Ubon Ratchathani to investigate under its authority and apologised for any inconvenience, while urging residents to report suspicious activity via the national ISOC hotline 1374.

 

The announcement was issued alongside a summary of border hostilities dated 14 December 2025 at 18:00. From 09:00 onwards, Cambodian forces carried out multiple attacks across several locations using mortars, artillery and BM-21 rockets, while Thailand responded with counter-fire and drone operations in line with operational plans.

 

At Chong An Ma in Nam Yuen district, Ubon Ratchathani, Cambodian forces used mortars, artillery and BM-21 rockets, while Thai forces deployed drones against three designated targets, reporting 80% destruction. In Huai Ta Maria and Phu Makua areas of Kantharalak district, Sisaket, Cambodian units again employed mortars, artillery and BM-21 rockets, with Thai artillery providing supporting fire.

 

In Kap Choeng district, Surin, clashes were reported at Chong Chom–Chong Rayi–Plod Tang, where Cambodian troops used small arms and mortars intermittently and reinforced their presence with about 300 additional personnel from outside the area. Thai forces responded with mortar fire against targets in the O Smed area.

 

Heavy fighting was also reported at Ta Kwai Temple and Hill 350, where Cambodian forces attacked with mortars, BM-21 rockets and unmanned aerial vehicles, including bomb-dropping drones and FPV “suicide” drones. Thai forces conducted assaults and seized key terrain, while at Ta Muen Temple and Sai Taku in Surin and Buriram respectively, Thai units maintained positions and responded to ongoing Cambodian fire.

 

Khoasod reported that investigations into the fuel export activity at Chong Mek will continue, while military operations along the border remain active and unresolved. Authorities have reiterated their request for public cooperation and reporting as the situation develops.

 

Key Takeaways

 

• Army Region 2 reported abnormal fuel export preparations at Chong Mek and ordered an investigation.

• Fighting on 14 December involved BM-21 rockets, artillery and drones across multiple border areas.

• Authorities urged the public to report suspicious activity via ISOC hotline 1374.

 Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod 2025-12-15

 

Sad to see this country engaging in war with Cambodia. 

Although it is apparent China has supplied Cambodia with weapons, this is old news. China has always supplied them with weapons and supported their country leader. 

They also sell weapons to Thailand. Profiting from both sides. 

 

So stop all fuel getting through during this "war" period - what's the problem ?

UPDATE
Cambodia Fires BM-21 Rockets as Clashes Continue on Border

 

Picture courtesy of SiamRath 

 

Fighting broke out along the Thai–Cambodian border early on Monday, 15 December 2025, after Cambodian forces fired BM-21 multiple-launch rockets into areas around Prasat Ta Kwai, Hill 350 and nearby strategic points, prompting heavy retaliatory fire from Thai forces. Artillery exchanges were reported across several locations, forcing villagers and village defence volunteers to shelter in bunkers, while authorities began evacuation measures in high-risk areas.

 

The clashes began shortly after 05.00, intensifying at around 06.05, when BM-21 rockets were launched towards Thai territory near Prasat Ta Kwai, Chong Krang and Prasat Ta Muen Thom in Surin province’s Phanom Dong Rak district. Thai forces responded with sustained artillery fire aimed at the reported rocket launch positions and loud explosions were heard throughout the morning across Surin, Sisaket, Ubon Ratchathani and Trat provinces. As of late morning, no confirmed reports of civilian casualties or property damage had been verified, as ongoing shelling prevented inspections.

 

Reports indicate that Cambodian forces have continued to reinforce troops and equipment in contested areas, while Thai military units have maintained defensive and counter-offensive operations to secure key terrain. According to local officials, the fighting on 15 December was heavier than on previous days.

 

Thai Air Force F-16 fighter jets were observed conducting multiple low passes over the conflict zone during the morning, though officials said there was no confirmation of air strikes. Unverified reports suggested that Thai troops may have regained control of Prasat Ta Kwai, but local leaders cautioned that the information could not be confirmed due to continued BM-21 fire in the area. Naval vessels were also reported to be providing gunfire support along the Trat front.

 

In response to the deteriorating security situation, Sisaket province announced evacuation orders for residents in four sub-districts of Khun Han district: Bak Dong, Kanthrom, Huai Chan and Phran. Authorities instructed civilians to remain in evacuation centres or other safe locations until further notice, warning that returning home would violate disaster prevention laws while conditions remain unsafe.

 

SiamRath reported that military and local officials said exchanges of artillery were expected to continue throughout the day, with no immediate indication of de-escalation. Residents in border districts were urged to follow official instructions closely, as the situation remained fluid and unpredictable.

 

Sisaket evacuation order
 

Key Takeaways

 

• Cambodian forces fired BM-21 rockets into multiple Thai border areas early on 15 December, triggering heavy retaliation.

• Artillery exchanges spread across several provinces, prompting evacuations in parts of Sisaket due to security risks.

• Reports of Thai forces regaining Prasat Ta Kwai remain unconfirmed amid ongoing fighting.

 

 Adapted by Asean Now from Siamrath 2025-12-15

 

 

UPDATE
Heavy Weapon Fire Escalates Thai-Cambodian Conflict

 

UPDATE
Evacuations in Si Sa Ket as Border Conflict Escalates

 

 

UPDATE
F-16s Strike Cambodian Arms Depots in Border Clashes

 

Picture courtesy of Khaosod 

 

The Royal Thai Air Force and the First Army Area launched air operations using F-16 fighter jets against Cambodian military targets along the Thai–Cambodian border on 14–15 December. The strikes hit arms and ammunition storage facilities and fortified positions, with Thai military authorities reporting immediate impacts and heavy damage at multiple sites. Fighting continued in several contested border areas as air operations supported ground forces.

 

The First Army Area Operations Centre said the Burapha Task Force carried out operations on 14 December 2568 near the Chok Chey Bridge, opposite Ban Nong Chan in Khok Sung district. Cambodian troop strongholds were targeted, with reported damage to the bridge and enemy bunkers, and two Cambodian soldiers seen fleeing the positions. The area sustained significant destruction following the engagement.

 

On 15 December 2568, the Royal Thai Air Force conducted further strikes using F-16 aircraft against Cambodian military targets. These included an arms and ammunition depot at Ban Thmor Chen, opposite Khok Sung district in Sa Kaeo province, with additional footage released showing coordinated air operations in support of Thai ground forces.

 

Reports confirmed that at 12.00 on 15 December 2568, F-16 aircraft struck two targets. The first was the arms and ammunition depot at Ban Thmor Chen, and the second was a deeper military target in Phra Net Phra district, Banteay Meanchey province, with both described as Cambodian military facilities.

 

Later that day at about 14.50, Thai F-16 jets carried out two air strike runs over Hill 350 in Phanom Dong Rak district, Surin province. The strikes were intended to support intense ground operations after Thai forces had taken control of Ta Kwai Temple, with military sources describing Hill 350 as a key objective due to its strategic high ground.

 

The Thai Army later said updates from the Second Army Area confirmed Cambodian forces had been pushed out of the Ta Kwai Temple area and that Thai troops were now in control. Surrounding strategic locations, particularly Hill 350 and nearby elevated positions, were still undergoing planned operations to secure full control, with authorities saying operations were continuing in line with strategic objectives.

 

The Army also stated on December 15, 2025 that at approximately 14:40, the Burapha Task Force used an unmanned aerial vehicle to drop bombs on a weapons support site for the Cambodian side. The strike caused damage in the area opposite Ban Nong Chan, adding to the coordinated air and ground actions reported during the clashes.

 

 

 

Key Takeaways

 

• F-16 aircraft struck Cambodian arms depots and fortified positions on 14–15 December 2568.

• Thai forces said they had secured Ta Kwai Temple while fighting continued around Hill 350.

• Military operations involved coordinated air strikes, ground actions and drone use.

 

 Adapted by Asean Now from Khaosod  2025-12-15