Cambodia Attacking Thai Positions with Russian ‘Kamikaze’ Drones: Thailand Claims

Cambodian forces have reportedly attacked Thai military positions using drones resembling Russian “kamikaze” systems.

A source in Thailand’s 2nd Army Area told the Bangkok Post that Cambodian forces deployed large numbers of drones, with fragments collected from Chong Bok and Chong An Ma in Ubon Ratchathani province showing clear similarities to first-person-view, or FPV, attack drones used extensively in the Russia–Ukraine war.

According to the source, the wreckage includes five-inch carbon-fibre frames, specific battery types, and small explosive charges fixed beneath the drones, all standard features of FPV strike systems seen in Ukraine. Internal components confirm the devices were attack drones rather than surveillance platforms.

Thai signal detections indicate the timing and direction of the strikes originated from within Cambodian territory, the source said. The accuracy of the attacks suggests the drones were operated by experienced FPV specialists, not newly trained Cambodian troops.

The source said FPV drones used in the Russia–Ukraine conflict are inexpensive but highly destructive. Fitted with real-time cameras linked to goggles, they allow operators to guide the drone directly into a target before detonation.

The assessment says it is unlikely Cambodia imported complete drone systems due to export restrictions. Instead, Thai officials believe technical know-how may have been transferred, with skilled operators entering the country as civilians, including drone athletes, technicians, or private contractors.

Earlier this week, the Thai army said it intercepted radio communications in English, fuelling speculation about Russian advisers operating in Cambodia. Similar concerns emerged during a previous outbreak of hostilities in July, although Thailand’s deputy defence minister said at the time that no hard evidence of a Russian presence had been found.

Cambodia has not publicly responded to the latest allegations.