Last Friday, under the auspices of a vibrant and slightly ceremonial atmosphere, a mix of military brass and diplomatic finesse gathered to weave the next chapter of a unique mission. In the spotlight were General Thitichai Thienthong, the esteemed Thai joint chief-of-staff, alongside the charismatic US ambassador, Robert F Godec. Together, they peeled back the curtain on a mission set against the backdrop of the annual Cobra Gold military exercises, marking the calendar from February 19 to March 4, with the exercises themselves painting the landscape from February 27 to March 10.
In a narrative twist of fate, the Gulf of Thailand, with its serene waters, has become the stage for what Admiral Chatchai Thongsaard, the valiant commander-in-chief of the Royal Thai Fleet, describes as a “light savage” operation. It’s a mission that breathes the spirit of camaraderie and shared goals as Thai and US navies join forces. They’re not just any forces; these are teams with the heart-wrenching task of seeking closure from the tragic sinking of the HTMS Sukhothai in December 2022, an event that left 29 crew members adrift between memory and legacy.
This mission, however, is more than just a search; it’s a reclaiming. The teams are set to dive into depths unknown to retrieve missing tales of five crew members, ensnare evidence resting beneath the water for further mysteries to unravel, disarm remnants of US armaments as a nod to safety, and breathe new life into some salvageable pieces and armaments that whisper tales of valor.
On this quest for remembrance and restoration, the “HTMS Rattanakosin” takes the lead, followed by a fleet consisting of two mine countermeasures ships, two patrol ships, 18 landing crafts mechanized, and a band of 40 Thai navy Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) maestros. Meanwhile, weaving through the waves alongside, the US Navy casts its support with the Ocean Valor ship and 20 EOD savants, proving that partnership knows no bounds.
Yet, amidst the echoes of planning and preparation, a soft, contemplative voice emerged from Navy commander-in-chief Admiral Adung Phan-iam. Last month, he pondered over the wreckage of the HTMS Sukhothai with a perspective steeped in reverence and practicality. In his vision, the sunken vessel could serve as a silent sentry to the lost souls, solidifying their stories in the depths below while also considering the economical narrative of salvaging costs.
As February brightens into the hues of Cobra Gold 2024, the thrill of annual multinational military exercises awaits. From the lush terrains of Lopburi to the coastal whispers of Rayong, Thailand transforms into a mosaic of strategic camaraderie. This year, the stage expands to welcome seven nations – boasting the participation of Thailand, the US, Singapore, Japan, Indonesia, South Korea, and Malaysia in the main war games. Adding layers to this international brigade, regional giants such as China, Australia, and India will grace the sidelines, weaving threads of humanitarian aid.
The story of the HTMS Sukhothai, a vessel touched by destiny during a storm off Prachuap Khiri Khan province on that fateful December 18, 2022, is one carved by the forces of nature. High winds danced with strong waves, in a performance that would see the warship engulfed and the engines silenced beneath the water. Of the 105 guardians aboard, 76 emerged to tales of survival, 24 became tales of sacrifice, and five became whispers on the wind, leaving an echo of courage and a mission of remembrance and honor.
This is the kind of collaboration we need more of! It’s a beautiful tribute to the lost heroes of the HTMS Sukhothai. It’s operations like these that strengthen military bonds and show respect for those who serve.
While I get where you’re coming from, it seems to me we’re glorifying military operations too much. Shouldn’t we be focusing more on peace and understanding rather than highlighting military exercises?
I think it’s about balance. Remembering and honoring those who’ve sacrificed while working together for a better future. It’s not glorifying war, but acknowledging the realities and the bonds formed.
But don’t you think these large-scale military drills escalate tensions rather than soothe them? It feels provocative.
Absolutely agree with you, NavyVet45. It’s about tribute and also about readiness. People tend to forget the importance of being prepared.
Isn’t anyone concerned about the environmental impact of this? Diving operations, especially military, can be quite disruptive to marine life.
There’s always a way to conduct these operations responsibly. I’m sure precautions are taken to minimize environmental harm. The ocean is vast; there are bigger pollutants out there.
I hope you’re right, but history tells us that military interests often overlook environmental considerations. It’s always a ‘mission first’ mindset.
Actually, military operations like this could provide valuable research opportunities. Sometimes they partner with scientists to study marine life or water quality.
This mission provides an incredible opportunity for historical and cultural preservation. It’s not just about salvaging equipment but also about recovering a piece of history.
I wonder how much of this is truly about remembrance and how much is a political move. It’s hard to see pure intentions in anything that has military flavor.
It’s a bit of both, I’d wager. Political gestures and genuine tribute can coexist. Complex doesn’t always mean insincere.
This is what makes our military the best! Working collaboratively with allies and showing respect for our fallen heroes. Makes me proud!
I hope this mission is successful but let’s not turn blind eyes to the costs involved. Operations like these are expensive. Who’s footing the bill?
Exactly my thought! I support honoring our heroes, but at what cost? We’re probably looking at millions in taxpayer money spent on what essentially is a recovery mission.
You have to consider the broader implications. Such missions enhance international cooperation and might be more cost-effective in the long run by strengthening alliances.
It’s heartwarming to see nations come together to honor those who’ve sacrificed so much. It’s far more than just a military operation; it’s a gesture of human respect and unity.