Army Clarifies Bunker Construction Is Tactical Defense, Not Budget Project
The Thai Army defended bunker construction in Trat's border region as tactical defense infrastructure, rejecting claims it was a misuse of budget funds, and called on parliament to verify facts before releasing statements.
On August 5, 2569, Army spokesman Lieutenant General Windhai Suvaree responded to parliamentary members who publicly released images of military bunkers in Trat's border region. The Army stated that preliminary investigation shows the bunkers are part of tactical development and strategic base improvements conducted before the second confrontation, encompassing barriers, communication centers, and survival infrastructure essential for battlefield operations—standard tactical doctrine across all armed forces.
Regarding budget concerns, the Army spokesman clarified that allocated funds support comprehensive base readiness and modernization, not bunker construction exclusively. He warned that presenting the budget as earmarked specifically for bunkers could create public misunderstanding. The spokesman called on the military committee to follow proper governmental procedures and consult relevant agencies before releasing information, to prevent public mistrust.
He acknowledged that public concern for soldier safety is commendable, but expressed concern that rushing to conclusions without verifying facts might appear to unfairly target the military. The Army confirmed it respects public interest in troop safety and welcomes constructive recommendations. The spokesman urged the parliamentary military committee to follow its established fact-checking procedures, hold meetings with all stakeholders, and thoroughly verify information before reaching conclusions and releasing statements to the public.
