Thai F-16s Strike Cambodian Artillery Base at Thomoda Casino Amid Ongoing Border Conflict

Thai F-16s Strike Cambodian Artillery Base at Thomoda Casino Amid Ongoing Border Conflict

On December 20, 2025, the Royal Thai Air Force carried out an airstrike on a site within Cambodian territory identified as the Thomoda Casino in Veal Veng, Cambodia. Thai F-16 fighter jets targeted and destroyed a 122 millimeter artillery base that Thai authorities say was positioned in violation of Thailand’s territorial boundaries. The operation was conducted under the military campaign named “Trat Prap Porapak” or “Trat Suppresses Foes” and was aimed at maintaining border security amid an intensifying conflict along the Thailand-Cambodia frontier.

This airstrike marks one of several recent cross-border operations as tensions between the two nations escalate into sustained clashes in late 2025. The engagement at Thomoda comes amid broader hostilities that have included ground fighting, rocket exchanges, and multiple air operations.

Background: Escalation Along the Thailand Cambodia Border

The border conflict between Thailand and Cambodia, rooted in long-standing territorial disputes, intensified again in December 2025 after confrontations earlier in the month expanded into active combat. Both nations have accused the other of initiating hostilities and violating ceasefire agreements. Efforts by international mediators, including former United States President Donald Trump and ASEAN partners, have so far failed to produce a lasting truce.

The disputed frontier stretches roughly 817 kilometers and encompasses rural terrain, cultural heritage sites, and strategic locations. Fighting has led to significant displacement of civilians on both sides and has involved artillery, rockets, drones, and air power.

Details of the Airstrike

According to Thai military sources, F-16 fighter jets from the Royal Thai Air Force executed precision strikes on the Thomoda Casino compound after intelligence indicated the site housed a 122 millimeter artillery battery posing a threat to Thai border forces. The artillery position was confirmed to be inside Cambodian sovereign territory, according to the Chanthaburi and Trat Border Defense Command (CTBDC).

The strike resulted in the destruction of the artillery base. After the bombing, personnel described in reports as “scammers” were observed fleeing the area and abandoning equipment. Thai authorities state the operation aimed to secure border regions and prevent further hostile fire toward Thai positions.

The use of F-16 jets reflects Thailand’s reliance on supersonic multirole fighters in its air operations, consistent with the service’s broader emphasis on maintaining aerial superiority during complex border engagements.

Broader Conflict Context

This latest airstrike is part of a pattern of aerial operations by Thailand in recent weeks. Separate reports indicate Thai air forces have also bombed other targets inside Cambodia, including alleged storage facilities and rocket depots, as clashes expanded across several provinces. Cambodia, in turn, has used BM-21 multiple rocket launcher systems in some engagements, causing casualties and infrastructure damage inside Thailand.

Beyond direct combat, both countries have implemented economic measures and border restrictions tied to the conflict. Discussions about blocking fuel exports and rerouting supplies have emerged as authorities seek to leverage non-military pressure points.

Reports from humanitarian agencies and news outlets indicate that over half a million civilians have been displaced by fighting along the border. Many crossings have been closed or restricted due to security concerns.

Official Statements

Thai defense officials characterize operations like the strike at Thomoda as necessary for national security and border integrity. They emphasize that military actions are aimed at neutralizing threats and restoring territorial stability.

Cambodian authorities have condemned Thai airstrikes, asserting they endanger civilians and violate international law. In some instances, Cambodian officials have reported civilian harm and damage to non-military sites. Independent verification of these claims remains limited, though they have been widely reported by international agencies.

What Comes Next

The strike at Thomoda Casino underscores the intensifying nature of the 2025 Thailand Cambodia border conflict and the use of air power in cross-border military operations. The situation remains fluid, with diplomatic efforts ongoing even as hostilities continue. Regional security analysts warn that without effective ceasefire mechanisms and sustained talks, clashes could further escalate, with consequences for civilian populations and stability in Southeast Asia.

For now, both militaries appear prepared to continue operations they see as necessary for defending sovereign claims. International observers, including ASEAN members and external powers, are tracking developments and encouraging dialogue. The coming weeks will be critical in determining whether armed confrontation gives way to negotiated de-escalation.