The Cambodian Mine Action Centre (CMAC) has uncovered fragments from two MK-82 bombs that were dropped from Thai F-16 aircraft. Manufactured in 2023, they were equipped with the GBU-12 Paveway II guidance system, produced in Israel.
CMAC general director Heng Ratana said today, August 2, that the parts provided evidence that a temple in Oddar Meanchey province was targeted by air strikes.
He explained that CMAC operators discovered the remains of the two bombs at Ta Moan Senchey pagoda, in Ta Ham village of Banteay Ampil district’s Kok Mon commune.
The MK-82 bombs, weighing approximately 250 kilogrammes, were fitted with a new-generation guidance device from Israel, the GBU-12 Paveway II.
He said the two guidance systems, produced in January 2023, bear the serial numbers 22002788 and 22002794.
“Let’s see how the Thai side will deceive domestic and international public opinion by claiming that the bombs dropped on this temple are remnants from the 1970-1973 war, or what other excuse they might come up with,” said Ratana.
He added that the latest finds could be added to the MK-84 bombs that were discovered earlier, as mounting evidence of Thailand’s aggressive bombing tactics.
