BANGKOK: The Royal Thai Air Force scrambled F-16 aircraft at about 5pm on Sunday (Nov 1) for a combat air patrol along Thailand’s western border, including over Mae Sot in Tak province. The mission proceeded smoothly, the air force said.
Air Vice Marshal Charoen Wattanasrimongkol, the air force spokesperson, said the F-16 aircraft, designated Fighter Type 19 by the service, came from the standby unit of Squadron 403, Wing 4, in Nakhon Sawan. The aircraft were launched under Quick Reaction Alert (QRA) procedures.
Charoen described the operation as a standard measure to demonstrate the posture and readiness of Thailand’s air power. The patrol also reinforced Thailand’s call for all countries to respect its sovereign rights, he added.
Charoen said the use of military force by any country must be appropriate and must not encroach on or cause harm to other countries. Thailand and its air force had consistently followed these principles as international standards, he added.
Charoen reaffirmed the air force’s ability to monitor and maintain surveillance of national airspace, along with its readiness to operate 24 hours a day, every day. The air force would use its full capabilities to protect Thai skies and national sovereignty, Charoen said, urging the public to have confidence in the service. - The Nation/ANN
