Cambodia and Thailand’s military capabilities

If one examines the two countries’ military strengths, it is quick to notice that they are worlds apart. Thailand has a much more technologically advanced and well-funded army with access to up-to-date technology and a considerably bigger defense budget. Cambodia, on the other hand, makes do with a smaller army but has been concentrating on enhancing firepower on the ground.On the economic side, the disparity is no less dramatic. Thailand’s economy not only far surpasses but is more advanced as well, with the difference illustrating the contrast between the two nations. This economic superiority allows Thailand to heavily invest in its defense apparatus and military hardware. In the meantime, the historic border feud between Cambodia and Thailand remains a source of tension. It goes back to the early 20th century when Cambodia asked for legal decisions from the United Nations’ International Court of Justice (ICJ) regarding disputed areas, notably near ancient temple complexes. Thailand does not, however, recognize the ICJ’s jurisdiction in the case and argues that sections of the border are still poorly demarcated. In recent times, relations between the two countries have further worsened. Cambodia has banned Thai products, an act that signifies the increasing diplomatic tension. This dramatic worsening of the bilateral relationship is not only a reflection of past grievances but also of ingrained political and nationalist feelings that continue to mold the relationship to this very day.

Thailand’s Military Overview:

• Total Military Personnel: 606,850

• Active Forces: 360,850

• Reserve Forces: 221,000

• Paramilitary Units: 25,000

• Global Military Ranking: 25th out of 145 countries

Cambodia’s Military Overview:

• Total Military Personnel: 231,000

• Active Forces: 221,000

• Paramilitary Units: 10,000

• Global Military Ranking: 95th out of 145 countries

Defense Budget:

Thailand: Approximately $5.89 billion USD

Cambodia: Approximately $860 million USD

Artillery:

Self-Propelled Artillery:

• Thailand: 50 units

• Cambodia: 30 units

Towed Artillery:

• Thailand: 589 units

• Cambodia: 430 units

Rocket Artillery (Rocket Projectors):

• Thailand: 26 units

• Cambodia: 463 units

Armored Vehicles:

Tanks:

• Thailand: 635 units

• Cambodia: 644 units

Armored Fighting Vehicles (AFVs):

• Thailand: 16,935 units

• Cambodia: 3,627 units

Air Force Overview:

Total Aircraft:

• Thailand: 493

• Cambodia: 25

Fighter Jets:

• Thailand: 72

• Cambodia: 0

Attack Helicopters:

• Thailand: 7

• Cambodia: 0

Transport Aircraft:

• Thailand: 54

• Cambodia: 4

Attack Aircraft:

• Thailand: 20

• Cambodia: 0

Navy Overview:

Helicopter Carriers:

• Thailand: 1
• Cambodia: 0

Frigates:

• Thailand: 7
• Cambodia: 0

Corvettes:

• Thailand: 6
• Cambodia: 0

Patrol Vessels:

• Thailand: 49
• Cambodia: 20

Mine Warfare Vessels:

• Thailand: 5
• Cambodia: 0

Economic Strength

Defense Budget:
Thailand allocates a much larger budget to defense, with nearly $5.9 billion annually, ranking 45th in the world. In contrast, Cambodia’s defense spending is considerably smaller at $860 million, placing it 92nd globally. This gap underscores Thailand’s far greater military investment.

External Debt:
Both nations carry significant external debt. Thailand’s debt totals over $102 billion, while Cambodia’s is much lower at $13.2 billion. However, it’s important to consider that Cambodia’s economy is smaller, so its debt burden can still be impactful.

Foreign Reserves:
Thailand holds a substantial foreign reserve of more than $224 billion, ranking 15th worldwide, which provides a strong economic cushion. Cambodia’s foreign reserves are much smaller, at just over $17.8 billion.

Purchasing Power:
Thailand’s purchasing power stands at approximately $1.5 trillion, ranking it 21st globally. Cambodia’s purchasing power, by comparison, is much lower—around $85.9 billion, which places it 97th in the world.