Will Thailand’s potential BrahMos deal fuel ‘mini-arms race’ with Cambodia?
Thailand’s possible acquisition of a supersonic cruise missile from India would help the Southeast Asian country defend its interests against Cambodia and could even fuel a “mini-arms race” between the two neighbours, analysts have said. The BrahMos system could strengthen Thailand’s deterrence at sea while giving Bangkok more options as tensions with Cambodia persist and neighbouring navies…
Analysts suggest that Thailand's potential acquisition of India's BrahMos supersonic cruise missile could lead to a "mini-arms race" with Cambodia. The missile, which can be launched from various platforms, would bolster Thailand's naval deterrence and provide additional options for the country amid ongoing tensions. Several news outlets reported that Thailand is considering the purchase as part of efforts to upgrade its military capabilities.
The BrahMos, with a range of about 290km, could effectively deter Cambodia in the Overlapping Claims Area, particularly if deployed in the Gulf of Thailand. This would have a deterrent effect against the Cambodians, and the new warships Thailand will operate with it. However, the situation remains tense as land and maritime disputes between Thailand and Cambodia persist, fueled by conflicting colonial-era mapping, energy resources, and recent military clashes.
The deployment of Chinese-built warships and upgraded naval infrastructure in Cambodia has further heightened regional security concerns. Analysts warn that this could result in a mini-arms race between the two neighbors, potentially destabilizing the region.
Written by urgent.news from South China Morning Post's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
