- May 4, 2021
- 2,251
Operation Vigilant Horizon
Introduction
Operation Vigilant Horizon is a meticulously planned, multi-faceted military campaign designed to systematically eradicate the insidious drug trafficking networks operating in the border regions between Myanmar and Thailand. This vital mission aims to safeguard the security, stability, and well-being of the affected communities in the provinces of Mae Hong Son, Chaing Mai, and Chaing Rai. By leveraging the extensive expertise and tactical prowess of the 7th Infantry Division, this operation seeks to neutralize the drug trafficking organizations that have long threatened the social fabric and economic prosperity of the region.
The primary objective of Operation Vigilant Horizon is to conduct proactive, targeted, and intelligence-driven operations against the sophisticated and adaptive drug trafficking networks that exploit the challenging terrain and vulnerable populations in the area. This will involve a multi-pronged approach, incorporating both overt and covert operations, as well as collaboration with local law enforcement agencies and community leaders. The operation will prioritize the identification and apprehension of key players within the trafficking networks, the disruption of their logistical operations, and the seizure and destruction of their assets and contraband.
To achieve maximum efficacy, Operation Vigilant Horizon will adhere to the following guiding principles:
1. Coordination: A high level of cooperation between military units, law enforcement agencies, and local stakeholders will be essential to ensure a unified and cohesive approach to the complex challenges posed by the drug trafficking networks.
2. Intelligence: The success of the operation will be contingent upon the acquisition, analysis, and dissemination of accurate and actionable intelligence. This will necessitate the establishment of a robust intelligence network and a constant flow of information between all relevant parties.
3. Adaptability: The drug trafficking organizations operating in the region have proven themselves to be highly adaptive and resourceful. Consequently, the 7th Infantry Division must be prepared to adjust its tactics and strategies as needed to maintain the initiative and ensure operational success.
4. Perseverance: The fight against drug trafficking is a protracted and demanding endeavor, requiring steadfast commitment and unwavering resolve. The 7th Infantry Division must be prepared to face numerous setbacks and challenges and to maintain its focus on the ultimate goal of securing the border and protecting the people of the region.
Through the resolute pursuit of these objectives, Operation Vigilant Horizon aims to deliver a decisive blow to the drug trafficking networks that have long cast a dark shadow over the border regions between Myanmar and Thailand, and to restore peace, stability, and hope to the afflicted communities.
The primary objective of Operation Vigilant Horizon is to conduct proactive, targeted, and intelligence-driven operations against the sophisticated and adaptive drug trafficking networks that exploit the challenging terrain and vulnerable populations in the area. This will involve a multi-pronged approach, incorporating both overt and covert operations, as well as collaboration with local law enforcement agencies and community leaders. The operation will prioritize the identification and apprehension of key players within the trafficking networks, the disruption of their logistical operations, and the seizure and destruction of their assets and contraband.
To achieve maximum efficacy, Operation Vigilant Horizon will adhere to the following guiding principles:
1. Coordination: A high level of cooperation between military units, law enforcement agencies, and local stakeholders will be essential to ensure a unified and cohesive approach to the complex challenges posed by the drug trafficking networks.
2. Intelligence: The success of the operation will be contingent upon the acquisition, analysis, and dissemination of accurate and actionable intelligence. This will necessitate the establishment of a robust intelligence network and a constant flow of information between all relevant parties.
3. Adaptability: The drug trafficking organizations operating in the region have proven themselves to be highly adaptive and resourceful. Consequently, the 7th Infantry Division must be prepared to adjust its tactics and strategies as needed to maintain the initiative and ensure operational success.
4. Perseverance: The fight against drug trafficking is a protracted and demanding endeavor, requiring steadfast commitment and unwavering resolve. The 7th Infantry Division must be prepared to face numerous setbacks and challenges and to maintain its focus on the ultimate goal of securing the border and protecting the people of the region.
Through the resolute pursuit of these objectives, Operation Vigilant Horizon aims to deliver a decisive blow to the drug trafficking networks that have long cast a dark shadow over the border regions between Myanmar and Thailand, and to restore peace, stability, and hope to the afflicted communities.
Background
A. Regional Context
The border regions between Myanmar and Thailand have long been a hotbed of illicit activities, particularly drug trafficking. The provinces of Mae Hong Son, Chaing Mai, and Chaing Rai have been disproportionately affected by this criminal enterprise, which has had devastating consequences for the social, economic, and political stability of the region. Factors contributing to the prevalence of drug trafficking in this area include the challenging geography, weak governance, and widespread poverty, which have collectively created a fertile environment for the growth and entrenchment of drug trafficking organizations.
B. Drug Trafficking Organizations
The drug trafficking networks operating in the region are highly sophisticated, well-funded, and intricately connected to global criminal enterprises. They have demonstrated an exceptional capacity for adaptability and resilience in the face of counter-narcotics efforts, often employing innovative tactics and strategies to evade detection and maintain their operational capabilities. The primary commodities trafficked by these organizations include heroin, methamphetamine, and other synthetic drugs, which are produced in clandestine labs in Myanmar and transported through the porous border to markets in Thailand and beyond.
C. Counter-Narcotics Efforts
Historically, counter-narcotics efforts in the region have been hampered by a lack of coordination between relevant stakeholders, inadequate resources, and a limited understanding of the complex dynamics underpinning the drug trade. The Thai and Myanmar governments have, in recent years, intensified their efforts to combat drug trafficking, with mixed success. Their initiatives have included increased border security, improved intelligence sharing, and targeted operations against key trafficking figures. However, these efforts have often been stymied by the traffickers' capacity for adaptation and the deeply rooted nature of the drug trade in the region.
D. Rationale for Operation Vigilant Horizon
The persistent failure of previous counter-narcotics initiatives to significantly disrupt the drug trafficking networks in the border regions has underscored the need for a new and innovative approach. Operation Vigilant Horizon represents a strategic shift in the fight against drug trafficking, with an emphasis on proactive, intelligence-driven operations, coordinated multi-agency efforts, and a sustained commitment to addressing the underlying factors that contribute to the drug trade. This operation has been designed to capitalize on the unique capabilities of the 7th Infantry Division, which possesses the requisite skills, experience, and determination to confront and defeat the formidable adversaries that constitute the drug trafficking organizations operating in the border regions.
E. Objectives and Desired Outcomes
The primary objectives of Operation Vigilant Horizon are to:
1. Dismantle the drug trafficking networks operating in the border regions, with a particular focus on the apprehension or neutralization of key trafficking figures.
2. Disrupt and degrade the logistical capabilities of the drug trafficking organizations, including the seizure and destruction of their assets, contraband, and infrastructure.
3. Strengthen cooperation and coordination between military units, law enforcement agencies, and local stakeholders to foster a unified and cohesive approach to the challenges posed by the drug trade.
4. Enhance the capacity of local communities to resist and combat drug trafficking, through targeted development initiatives, improved governance, and the establishment of robust community-based policing mechanisms.
The successful implementation of Operation Vigilant Horizon is expected to yield significant and enduring benefits for the people of the region, including enhanced security, reduced levels of drug-related crime and violence, and improved social and economic prospects.
The border regions between Myanmar and Thailand have long been a hotbed of illicit activities, particularly drug trafficking. The provinces of Mae Hong Son, Chaing Mai, and Chaing Rai have been disproportionately affected by this criminal enterprise, which has had devastating consequences for the social, economic, and political stability of the region. Factors contributing to the prevalence of drug trafficking in this area include the challenging geography, weak governance, and widespread poverty, which have collectively created a fertile environment for the growth and entrenchment of drug trafficking organizations.
B. Drug Trafficking Organizations
The drug trafficking networks operating in the region are highly sophisticated, well-funded, and intricately connected to global criminal enterprises. They have demonstrated an exceptional capacity for adaptability and resilience in the face of counter-narcotics efforts, often employing innovative tactics and strategies to evade detection and maintain their operational capabilities. The primary commodities trafficked by these organizations include heroin, methamphetamine, and other synthetic drugs, which are produced in clandestine labs in Myanmar and transported through the porous border to markets in Thailand and beyond.
C. Counter-Narcotics Efforts
Historically, counter-narcotics efforts in the region have been hampered by a lack of coordination between relevant stakeholders, inadequate resources, and a limited understanding of the complex dynamics underpinning the drug trade. The Thai and Myanmar governments have, in recent years, intensified their efforts to combat drug trafficking, with mixed success. Their initiatives have included increased border security, improved intelligence sharing, and targeted operations against key trafficking figures. However, these efforts have often been stymied by the traffickers' capacity for adaptation and the deeply rooted nature of the drug trade in the region.
D. Rationale for Operation Vigilant Horizon
The persistent failure of previous counter-narcotics initiatives to significantly disrupt the drug trafficking networks in the border regions has underscored the need for a new and innovative approach. Operation Vigilant Horizon represents a strategic shift in the fight against drug trafficking, with an emphasis on proactive, intelligence-driven operations, coordinated multi-agency efforts, and a sustained commitment to addressing the underlying factors that contribute to the drug trade. This operation has been designed to capitalize on the unique capabilities of the 7th Infantry Division, which possesses the requisite skills, experience, and determination to confront and defeat the formidable adversaries that constitute the drug trafficking organizations operating in the border regions.
E. Objectives and Desired Outcomes
The primary objectives of Operation Vigilant Horizon are to:
1. Dismantle the drug trafficking networks operating in the border regions, with a particular focus on the apprehension or neutralization of key trafficking figures.
2. Disrupt and degrade the logistical capabilities of the drug trafficking organizations, including the seizure and destruction of their assets, contraband, and infrastructure.
3. Strengthen cooperation and coordination between military units, law enforcement agencies, and local stakeholders to foster a unified and cohesive approach to the challenges posed by the drug trade.
4. Enhance the capacity of local communities to resist and combat drug trafficking, through targeted development initiatives, improved governance, and the establishment of robust community-based policing mechanisms.
The successful implementation of Operation Vigilant Horizon is expected to yield significant and enduring benefits for the people of the region, including enhanced security, reduced levels of drug-related crime and violence, and improved social and economic prospects.
Belligerents
| Local Drug Traffickers |
Objectives
MAR02/VIH/PP/01- Complete - General maintenance tasks, pre-deployment preparation, and provision of ordnance, supplies, assets, and services to ensure optimal operational readiness.MAR02/VIH/SV/01 - Complete - Logistic task by the Service Support Squadron, including the timely delivery of supplies, maintenance of equipment, and provision of essential services to support the operation.
MAR02/VIH/OP/01 - Complete - Transporting task, encompassing the secure and efficient movement of personnel, equipment, and supplies to and from the operational area, utilizing air, land, and sea assets as appropriate.
MAR02/VIH/OP/02 - Active - Conduct reconnaissance and surveillance missions, to monitor and assess the activities, capabilities, and intentions of drug trafficking organizations within the operational area.
MAR02/VIH/OP/03 - Pending - Execution of targeted kinetic and non-kinetic operations against key drug trafficking figures, infrastructure, and assets, in coordination with law enforcement agencies and local stakeholders.
MAR02/VIH/OP/04 - Pending - Implementation of robust border security measures, including the establishment of checkpoints, patrols, and rapid response teams, to interdict and deter the movement of contraband and personnel across the border.
MAR02/VIH/OP/05 - Pending - Development and execution of information operations and strategic communication efforts, to shape the narrative surrounding the operation, counter disinformation, and foster public support.
MAR02/VIH/OP/06 - Pending - Engagement with local communities, including the establishment of trust-building initiatives, the provision of essential services, and the enhancement of community-based policing mechanisms to strengthen local resistance to drug trafficking.
MAR02/VIH/OP/07 - Pending - Facilitation of inter-agency cooperation and coordination, including the establishment of joint operational centers, regular liaison meetings, and the sharing of intelligence and resources, to ensure a unified and cohesive approach to the challenges posed by the drug trade.
MAR02/VIH/OP/08 - Pending - Post-operation assessment and evaluation, including the analysis of operational performance, lessons learned, and the development of recommendations for future counter-narcotics efforts in the region.
MAR02/VIH/IT/01 - Active - - NIA (National Intelligence Agency) operates tasks, such as the collection, analysis, and dissemination of actionable intelligence to inform operational planning and decision-making.
Deployment
7th Infantry Regiment [1,000x] 1st Battalion [7x] BMP-3 [15x] BTR-90 [9x] ICV Stryker [1,000x] 2nd Battalion [36x] Land Rover Wolf WMIK [6x] DN-V Buffalo [3x] GAZ Vodnik [1,000x] 3rd Battalion [76x ]GAZ Tigr 7th Service Support Regiment [27x] Transportation Battalion [27x] GAZ Sadko [100x ]Maintenance Battalion [57x ]Combat Medical Battalion [90x] 18th Signal Corp Battalion [2x] GAZ Vodnik [90x] 7th Combat Medical [2x] GAZ Vodnik [90x] 7th Combat Engineer Battalion [2x] GAZ Vodnik [2x] IMR-2 [2x] BREM-1 [90x] 7th Patrol Company [2x] GAZ Vodnik [1x] Elbit Hermes 450 UAV National Intelligence Agency (NIA) Intelligence Agency Officer [9x] Administrative Officer [3x] Human Resource Operator [30x] Operation Reporter [15x] Operation Reporter (Cyber Security) [6x] Secret Agent | 17th Infantry Regiment [1,000x] 1st Battalion [7x] BMP-3 [15x] BTR-90 [9x] ICV Stryker [1,000x] 2nd Battalion [36x] Land Rover Wolf WMIK [6x] DN-V Buffalo [3x] GAZ Vodnik [1,000x] 3rd Battalion [76x ]GAZ Tigr 7th Service Support Regiment [27x] Transportation Battalion [27x] GAZ Sadko [100x ]Maintenance Battalion [57x ]Combat Medical Battalion [90x] 18th Signal Corp Battalion [2x] GAZ Vodnik [90x] 7th Combat Medical [2x] GAZ Vodnik [90x] 7th Combat Engineer Battalion [2x] GAZ Vodnik [2x] IMR-2 [2x] BREM-1 [90x] 7th Patrol Company [2x] GAZ Vodnik [1x] Elbit Hermes 450 UAV | 27th Infantry Regiment [1,000x] 1st Battalion [7x] BMP-3 [15x] BTR-90 [9x] ICV Stryker [1,000x] 2nd Battalion [36x] Land Rover Wolf WMIK [6x] DN-V Buffalo [3x] GAZ Vodnik [1,000x] 3rd Battalion [76x ]GAZ Tigr 7th Service Support Regiment [27x] Transportation Battalion [27x] GAZ Sadko [100x ]Maintenance Battalion [57x ]Combat Medical Battalion [90x] 18th Signal Corp Battalion [2x] GAZ Vodnik [90x] 7th Combat Medical [2x] GAZ Vodnik [90x] 7th Combat Engineer Battalion [2x] GAZ Vodnik [2x] IMR-2 [2x] BREM-1 [90x] 7th Patrol Company [2x] GAZ Vodnik [1x] Elbit Hermes 450 UAV |
Additional Information
This document is classified as TOP SECRET and is protected under the Maximum Encrypted Method employed by the NIA Counter-Intelligence Service. Access to, and dissemination of, the information contained herein is strictly limited to personnel with the appropriate security clearance and a demonstrable need-to-know.
The sensitive nature of the information in this document stems from the following factors:
1. Sources and Methods: The intelligence and information provided in this document have been derived from a variety of highly classified sources and methods, including human intelligence (HUMINT) assets, signals intelligence (SIGINT), and technical surveillance operations. Unauthorized disclosure of this information could compromise ongoing intelligence-gathering activities, endanger the lives of sources and operatives, and diminish the effectiveness of future intelligence operations.
2. Operational Security: The success of Operation Vigilant Horizon is contingent upon the preservation of strict operational security. The details of the operation's tactics, techniques, and procedures, as well as the identities of the units and personnel involved, must be safeguarded from potential adversaries who may seek to exploit any vulnerabilities or weaknesses in the operation's planning and execution.
3. Inter-Agency Coordination: The multi-agency nature of Operation Vigilant Horizon necessitates the sharing of sensitive information and intelligence between various stakeholders, including military units, law enforcement agencies, and government entities. Ensuring the proper handling, storage, and dissemination of this information is critical to maintaining the integrity of the operation and fostering trust and cooperation between participating organizations.
4. International Ramifications: The transnational nature of the drug trafficking networks targeted by Operation Vigilant Horizon may have implications for regional and international relations, particularly with regard to Myanmar and Thailand. The unauthorized disclosure of sensitive information pertaining to the operation could exacerbate existing tensions or provoke unintended diplomatic, political, or military consequences.
All personnel with access to this document are reminded of their obligation to safeguard the information contained herein, in accordance with the provisions of the NIA Counter-Intelligence Service's security protocols and applicable regulations. Failure to do so may result in severe disciplinary action, including the revocation of security clearance, legal prosecution, and/or imprisonment.
***Logistic support and transportation is provided by the 3rd Army Command Unit
The sensitive nature of the information in this document stems from the following factors:
1. Sources and Methods: The intelligence and information provided in this document have been derived from a variety of highly classified sources and methods, including human intelligence (HUMINT) assets, signals intelligence (SIGINT), and technical surveillance operations. Unauthorized disclosure of this information could compromise ongoing intelligence-gathering activities, endanger the lives of sources and operatives, and diminish the effectiveness of future intelligence operations.
2. Operational Security: The success of Operation Vigilant Horizon is contingent upon the preservation of strict operational security. The details of the operation's tactics, techniques, and procedures, as well as the identities of the units and personnel involved, must be safeguarded from potential adversaries who may seek to exploit any vulnerabilities or weaknesses in the operation's planning and execution.
3. Inter-Agency Coordination: The multi-agency nature of Operation Vigilant Horizon necessitates the sharing of sensitive information and intelligence between various stakeholders, including military units, law enforcement agencies, and government entities. Ensuring the proper handling, storage, and dissemination of this information is critical to maintaining the integrity of the operation and fostering trust and cooperation between participating organizations.
4. International Ramifications: The transnational nature of the drug trafficking networks targeted by Operation Vigilant Horizon may have implications for regional and international relations, particularly with regard to Myanmar and Thailand. The unauthorized disclosure of sensitive information pertaining to the operation could exacerbate existing tensions or provoke unintended diplomatic, political, or military consequences.
All personnel with access to this document are reminded of their obligation to safeguard the information contained herein, in accordance with the provisions of the NIA Counter-Intelligence Service's security protocols and applicable regulations. Failure to do so may result in severe disciplinary action, including the revocation of security clearance, legal prosecution, and/or imprisonment.
***Logistic support and transportation is provided by the 3rd Army Command Unit
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