Thailand | Exercise Siam Thunder 2003

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Title: Operation Guardian Harmony
Document Number: RTAF-EXSTD-001/2003
Classification: Semi-Confidential | Secret
Security Level: NSST Protocol + Traditional Maximum Secure Encrypted Method
Date: June 26 2003

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XI. IntroductionX

Background and Objective

Superior Firepower has always been the guiding doctrine of the Republic Thai Army since its establishment in 1998, emphasizing the need for an overwhelming saturated attack against an enemy force. To ensure that the Republic Thai Army is always ready for rapid deployment and engage the enemy force with maximum devastation, all sixteen Field Artillery Regiments would be deployed with all their assets.

XII. Command and ControlX

2.1 Guidance

This operation is conducted under the guidance of the Defense Minister, Sutin Klungsang, and approval from Prime Minister Thaksin Shinawatra.

XIII. Operational ForcesX

Republic Thai First Army

• Republic Thai Army 1st Infantry Division, Capital Guard, The Divine clique
  • 1st Field Artillery Regiment
    • 864 Personnel
    • [108] M758 ATGM
  • 1st Signal Corp Battalion
    • 50 Personnel
    • [11] Gaz Vodnik
  • 1st Combat Medical Battalion
    • 50 Personnel
    • [11] GAZ Vodnik
  • 1st Long Range Reconnaissance Battalion
    • 50 Personnel
    • [11] GAZ Vodnik
    • [1] IAI Searcher II Mk3
    • [3] Elbit Hermes 450 UAV
  • 1st Service Support Regiment
    • 200 Personnel
    • [30] GAZ Sadko
• Republic Thai Army 2nd Infantry Division, Fort Phromyothi, The Eastern Tiger
  • 2nd Field Artillery Regiment
    • 864 Personnel
    • [108] M758 ATGM
  • 2nd Signal Corp Battalion
    • 50 Personnel
    • [11] Gaz Vodnik
  • 2nd Combat Medical Battalion
    • 50 Personnel
    • [11] GAZ Vodnik
  • 2nd Long Range Reconnaissance Battalion
    • 50 Personnel
    • [11] GAZ Vodnik
    • [1] IAI Searcher II Mk3
    • [3] Elbit Hermes 450 UAV
  • 2nd Service Support Regiment
    • 200 Personnel
    • [30] GAZ Sadko
• Republic Thai Army 9th Infantry Division, Fort Surasi, The Black Panthers Division
  • 9th Field Artillery Regiment
    • 864 Personnel
    • [72] M758 ATGM
    • [36] M109A2 Howitzer
  • 9th Signal Corp Battalion
    • 50 Personnel
    • [11] Gaz Vodnik
  • 9th Combat Medical Battalion
    • 50 Personnel
    • [11] GAZ Vodnik
  • 9th Long Range Reconnaissance Battalion
    • 50 Personnel
    • [11] GAZ Vodnik
    • [1] IAI Searcher II Mk3
    • [3] Elbit Hermes 450 UAV
  • 9th Service Support Regiment
    • 200 Personnel
    • [30] GAZ Sadko
• Republic Thai Army 11th Infantry Division, Fort Somdet Phra Nangklao
  • 11th Field Artillery Regiment
    • 864 Personnel
    • [72] M758 ATGM
    • [36] M109A2 Howitzer
  • 16th Signal Corp Battalion
    • 50 Personnel
    • [11] Gaz Vodnik
  • 11th Combat Medical Battalion
    • 50 Personnel
    • [11] GAZ Vodnik
  • 11th Long Range Reconnaissance Battalion
    • 50 Personnel
    • [11] GAZ Vodnik
    • [1] IAI Searcher II Mk3
    • [3] Elbit Hermes 450 UAV
  • 11th Service Support Regiment
    • 200 Personnel
    • [30] GAZ Sadko
• Republic Thai Army 2nd Cavalry Division, Phraya Thai
  • 22nd Field Artillery Regiment
    • 864 Personnel
    • [72] M758 ATGM
    • [36] M109A2 Howitzer
  • 2nd Cavalry Signal Corp Battalion
    • 50 Personnel
    • [11] Gaz Vodnik
  • 2nd Calvary Combat Medical Battalion
    • 50 Personnel
    • [11] GAZ Vodnik
  • 2nd Cavalry Patrol Company
    • 50 Personnel
    • [11] GAZ Vodnik
    • [1] IAI Searcher II Mk3
    • [3] Elbit Hermes 450 UAV
  • 2nd Cavalry Service Support Regiment
    • 200 Personnel
    • [30] GAZ Sadko
• 1st Army Command Unit
  • 1,000 Personnel
    • [600] Ural-4320
    • [5] BMP-3
    • [10] BTR-90

Republic Thai Second Army

• Republic Thai Army 3rd Infantry Division, Fort Suranari, The Eastern Phoenix
  • 3rd Field Artillery Regiment
    • 864 Personnel
    • [72] M758 ATGM
    • [36] M109A2 Howitzer
  • 3rd Signal Corp Battalion
    • 50 Personnel
    • [11] Gaz Vodnik
  • 3rd Combat Medical Battalion
    • 50 Personnel
    • [11] GAZ Vodnik
  • 3rd Patrol Company
    • 50 Personnel
    • [11] GAZ Vodnik
    • [1] IAI Searcher II Mk3
    • [3] Elbit Hermes 450 UAV
  • 3rd Service Support Regiment
    • 200 Personnel
    • [30] GAZ Sadko
• Republic Thai Army 6th Infantry Division, Fort King Phutthayodfa Chulalok Maharat
  • 6th Field Artillery Regiment
    • 864 Personnel
    • [72] M758 ATGM
    • [36] M109A2 Howitzer
  • 6th Signal Corp Battalion
    • 50 Personnel
    • [11] Gaz Vodnik
  • 6th Combat Medical Battalion
    • 50 Personnel
    • [11] GAZ Vodnik
  • 6th Patrol Company
    • 50 Personnel
    • [11] GAZ Vodnik
    • [1] IAI Searcher II Mk3
    • [3] Elbit Hermes 450 UAV
  • 6th Service Support Regiment
    • 200 Personnel
    • [30] GAZ Sadko
• Republic Thai Army 3rd Cavalry Division, Fort Prem Tinsulanonda
  • 22nd Field Artillery Regiment
    • 864 Personnel
    • [108] M758 ATGM
  • 17th Signal Corp Battalion
    • 50 Personnel
    • [11] Gaz Vodnik
  • 2nd Calvary Combat Medical Battalion
    • 50 Personnel
    • [11] GAZ Vodnik
  • 3rd Cavalry Patrol Company
    • 50 Personnel
    • [11] GAZ Vodnik
    • [1] IAI Searcher II Mk3
    • [3] Elbit Hermes 450 UAV
  • 3rd Cavalry Service Support Regiment
    • 200 Personnel
    • [30] GAZ Sadko
• Republic Thai Army 8th Infantry Division, Fort Prachaksinlapakom
  • 8th Field Artillery Regiment
    • 864 Personnel
    • [108] M758 ATGM
  • 8th Signal Corp Battalion
    • 50 Personnel
    • [11] Gaz Vodnik
  • 8th Combat Medical Battalion
    • 50 Personnel
    • [11] GAZ Vodnik
  • 8th Patrol Company
    • 50 Personnel
    • [11] GAZ Vodnik
    • [1] IAI Searcher II Mk3
    • [3] Elbit Hermes 450 UAV
  • 8th Service Support Regiment
    • 200 Personnel
    • [30] GAZ Sadko
• Republic Thai Army 12th Infantry Division, Fort Sappasitthi Prasong
  • 12th Field Artillery Regiment
    • 864 Personnel
    • [108] M758 ATGM
  • 12th Signal Corp Battalion
    • 50 Personnel
    • [11] Gaz Vodnik
  • 12th Combat Medical Battalion
    • 50 Personnel
    • [11] GAZ Vodnik
  • 12th Patrol Company
    • 50 Personnel
    • [11] GAZ Vodnik
    • [1] IAI Searcher II Mk3
    • [3] Elbit Hermes 450 UAV
  • 12th Service Support Regiment
    • 200 Personnel
    • [30] GAZ Sadko
• 2nd Army Command Unit
  • 1,000 Personnel
    • [500] Ural-4320
    • [5] BMP-3
    • [10] BTR-90

Republic Thai Third Army

• Republic Thai Army 4th Infantry Division, Fort King Naresuan Maharat, The Alpine hawk
  • 4th Field Artillery Regiment
    • 864 Personnel
    • [72] M758 ATGM
    • [36] M109A2 Howitzer
  • 4th Signal Corp Battalion
    • 50 Personnel
    • [11] Gaz Vodnik
  • 4th Combat Medical Battalion
    • 50 Personnel
    • [11] GAZ Vodnik
  • 4th Patrol Company
    • 50 Personnel
    • [11] GAZ Vodnik
    • [1] IAI Searcher II Mk3
    • [3] Elbit Hermes 450 UAV
  • 4th Service Support Regiment
    • 200 Personnel
    • [30] GAZ Sadko
• Republic Thai Army 7th Infantry Division, Fort King Naresuan Maharat, The Alpine hawk
  • 7th Field Artillery Regiment
    • 864 Personnel
    • [72] M758 ATGM
    • [36] M109A2 Howitzer
  • 18th Signal Corp Battalion
    • 50 Personnel
    • [11] Gaz Vodnik
  • 7th Combat Medical Battalion
    • 50 Personnel
    • [11] GAZ Vodnik
  • 7th Patrol Company
    • 50 Personnel
    • [11] GAZ Vodnik
    • [1] IAI Searcher II Mk3
    • [3] Elbit Hermes 450 UAV
  • 7th Service Support Regiment
    • 200 Personnel
    • [30] GAZ Sadko
• Republic Thai Army 1st Cavalry Divison, Fort Phokhun Pha Mueang
  • 21st Field Artillery Regiment
    • 864 Personnel
    • [108] M758 ATGM
  • 11th Signal Corp Battalion
    • 50 Personnel
    • [11] Gaz Vodnik
  • 1st Calvary Combat Medical Battalion
    • 50 Personnel
    • [11] GAZ Vodnik
  • 1st Cavalry Reconnaissance Company
    • 50 Personnel
    • [11] GAZ Vodnik
    • [1] IAI Searcher II Mk3
    • [3] Elbit Hermes 450 UAV
  • 1st Cavalry Service Support Regiment
    • 200 Personnel
    • [30] GAZ Sadko
• 3rd Army Command Unit
  • 1,000 Personnel
    • [400] Ural-4320
    • [5] BMP-3
    • [10] BTR-90

Republic Thai Fourth Army

• Republic Thai Army 5th Infantry Division, Fort Thep Satri Srisunthorn, The Southern Viper
  • 5th Field Artillery Regiment
    • 864 Personnel
    • [72] M758 ATGM
    • [36] M109A2 Howitzer
  • 5th Signal Corp Battalion
    • 50 Personnel
    • [11] Gaz Vodnik
  • 5th Combat Medical Battalion
    • 50 Personnel
    • [11] GAZ Vodnik
  • 5th Long Range Reconnaissance Company
    • 50 Personnel
    • [11] GAZ Vodnik
    • [1] IAI Searcher II Mk3
    • [3] Elbit Hermes 450 UAV
  • 5th Service Support Regiment
    • 200 Personnel
    • [30] GAZ Sadko
• Republic Thai Army 15th Infantry Division, Fort Ingkhayutthaborihan
  • 15th Field Artillery Regiment
    • 864 Personnel
    • [72] M758 ATGM
    • [36] M109A2 Howitzer
  • 15th Signal Corp Battalion
    • 50 Personnel
    • [11] Gaz Vodnik
  • 15th Combat Medical Battalion
    • 50 Personnel
    • [11] GAZ Vodnik
  • 15th Long Range Reconnaissance Company
    • 50 Personnel
    • [11] GAZ Vodnik
    • [1] IAI Searcher II Mk3
    • [3] Elbit Hermes 450 UAV
  • 15th Service Support Regiment
    • 200 Personnel
    • [30] GAZ Sadko
• Republic Thai Army 10th Infantry Division, Fort Khet Udomsak
  • 10th Field Artillery Regiment
    • 864 Personnel
    • [72] M758 ATGM
    • [36] M109A2 Howitzer
  • 10th Signal Corp Battalion
    • 50 Personnel
    • [11] Gaz Vodnik
  • 10th Combat Medical Battalion
    • 50 Personnel
    • [11] GAZ Vodnik
  • 10th Long Range Reconnaissance Company
    • 50 Personnel
    • [11] GAZ Vodnik
    • [1] IAI Searcher II Mk3
    • [3] Elbit Hermes 450 UAV
  • 10th Service Support Regiment
    • 200 Personnel
    • [30] GAZ Sadko
• 4th Army Command Unit
  • 1,000 Personnel
    • [400] Ural-4320
    • [5] BMP-3
    • [10] BTR-90

XIV. ExecutionX

4.1 Initial Deployment

All personnel will be reported to the respective base with all necessary equipment per the Defense Ministry documents.

4.2 Communication

Effective communication among all the units must be maintained. Any unidentified or suspicious activity must be reported to the command center immediately.

4.3 Rules of Engagement

Engagement will be per the established Rule of Engagement (ROE) with the application of Increased Vigilance (IVG) and international laws. The use of force must be proportionate, and only used in self-defense or to deter identified threats after all non-lethal methods have been exhausted.

4.4 Support

Logistic support, including fuel, supplies, and maintenance, will be provided by the respective naval bases.

XV. CoordinationX

5.1 Inter-agency

Liaise with maritime agencies such as the Navy, Coast Guard, and Air Force to ensure maximum coverage and sharing of intelligence.

5.2 International

In case any foreign vessels or units are involved, contact must be established with the respective embassies or consulates and the situation must be reported to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.

XVI. ConclusionX

The Defense Ministry has mobilized all necessary resources for the deployment of Exercise Siam Thunder 2003. The Defense Ministry expects that its contribution will represent Thailand's role as a regional leader dedicated to peace, stability, and cooperation in Southeast Asia

[Signature]
Sutin Klungsang
Defence Minister

[Signature]
Thaksin Shinawatra
Prime Minister, Republic of Thailand

Document Clearance:
The Office of the Prime Minister
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs
The National Intelligence Agency
The Republic Thai Air Force Command Center
The Republic Thai Navy Command Center
The Republic Thai Armed Forces Special Warfare & Operation Command

Distribution List:
The Office of the Prime Minister
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs
The National Intelligence Agency
The Republic Thai Air Force Command Center
The Republic Thai Navy Command Center
The Republic Thai Police
The Republic Armed Forces Headquarters
The Republic Thai Air Defense Command
The Naval Special Warfare Command
The Air Force Security Force Command

 

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Secret unless contextual possible.​

In Exercise Siam Thunder 2003, the deployed personnel and assets of the Royal Thai Army were meticulously reported back to their respective bases of operation. These personnel, actively engaged in an exercise designed to test and affirm their state of readiness, already epitomized the highest standards of operational efficiency. They were not only exceptionally well-trained and well-versed in their respective military disciplines, but also demonstrated commendable mental fortitude and clarity. This level of proficiency was a direct result of their rigorous and comprehensive training regimen, which emphasized not just tactical skills but also strategic thinking and psychological resilience. Their performance in the exercise reflected this all-encompassing preparation, showcasing their ability to operate seamlessly in a variety of scenarios. Each member of the personnel, from the highest-ranking officers to the rank-and-file soldiers, displayed a profound understanding of their roles and responsibilities, further underscoring the effectiveness of their training and preparedness.

During the preparation phase, a meticulous inspection and maintenance routine was carried out for the M109A2 Howitzers and M758 ATGM systems, along with their associated support vehicles and communication equipment. This rigorous process included a comprehensive check of the artillery's mechanical and electronic systems, as well as a thorough examination of the ammunition to ensure its reliability and safety. Drills were conducted with a focus on enhancing crew coordination, mastering the loading and unloading of ammunition, and perfecting emergency response procedures. These drills were carefully designed to balance the demands of precision and speed with the imperative of maintaining the highest safety standards. The emphasis was not just on the execution of tasks but also on the smooth and efficient teamwork required under various operational scenarios. In addition to practical drills, there were dedicated sessions to discuss and reinforce safety protocols, communication procedures, and the detailed objectives of the exercise. It was recognized as crucial that all personnel were fully versed in their roles and the broader goals of the exercise. Special attention was given to the rules of engagement and operational boundaries to ensure clear understanding and adherence. Moreover, environmental considerations were also a focal point, ensuring that operations were conducted with mindfulness towards ecological impacts and sustainability, thereby complementing their commitment to operational excellence with environmental responsibility.

The core objective of the Deployment Phase was to rigorously evaluate the mobility and rapid deployment capabilities of the artillery units. This phase specifically focused on testing the units' ability to efficiently and quickly mobilize, move, and establish operational readiness in a designated area, often a terrain that mimicked potential real-world combat zones for added realism. A key aspect of this phase was the emphasis on speed, efficiency, and tactical effectiveness in deploying artillery units. Special attention was given to the logistics of moving heavy artillery equipment and ensuring that the units could be set up and operational within a minimal time frame. This was crucial in a real combat scenario where time and responsiveness are often decisive factors. During this phase, the units were also tested on their capacity to adapt to unexpected changes in the deployment environment, such as sudden shifts in weather or terrain conditions. This added an element of versatility to the exercise, further enhancing the real-world applicability of the training. The ability to maintain a high level of performance under varying conditions was seen as a vital component of the overall effectiveness of the artillery units in a combat situation.

During the Rapid Deployment Drills, the primary objective was to simulate scenarios that necessitated the swift mobilization of artillery units to new locations. These drills rigorously tested the unit's readiness and capacity to adapt to sudden operational demands, emphasizing the swift and efficient movement of artillery pieces, including M109A2 Howitzers and M758 ATGMs.

Key components of these drills included Packing and Preparation. This phase focused on the efficient and secure packing of artillery, equipment, and supplies. It involved developing and rigorously practicing packing checklists to ensure that all essential items were included while avoiding any superfluous elements that could impede movement. Special attention was given to the modular packing of artillery pieces to enhance their portability and deployment speed.

The Convoy Movement phase was critical for the organization and execution of convoy operations. It covered aspects such as convoy formation, maintaining seamless communication between vehicles, and adeptly navigating pre-determined and contingency routes. Units were trained to anticipate and plan for potential obstacles or threats, such as ambushes or improvised explosive devices (IEDs), with emphasis on maintaining formation integrity and discipline under varying conditions, including different times of day and diverse weather scenarios.

Navigation Under Time Constraints was another crucial element. This tested the unit’s proficiency in effectively navigating to a designated area within a stringent timeframe, mirroring the urgency of real combat situations. Units were trained to utilize modern navigation tools like GPS, while also maintaining proficiency in traditional navigation methods to ensure redundancy and reliability in diverse operational environments. Realistic time constraints were imposed to heighten the sense of urgency and to replicate the high-pressure conditions of actual battlefield scenarios.

The Establishment of Firing Positions was a critical process that entailed the strategic selection and establishment of artillery firing positions, capitalizing on tactical advantages. For artillery units, the optimal positioning was key to enhance their firing effectiveness while concurrently minimizing their vulnerability to enemy detection or retaliatory fire. The process comprised several pivotal components.

The first component, Site Selection, involved rigorous training for personnel in identifying potential firing positions. These locations were strategically chosen to provide cover and concealment, coupled with unobstructed lines of sight to the target area. Consideration was meticulously given to various factors, such as the topography of the terrain, the effective range of the artillery, and potential risks posed by enemy counter-battery fire.

Once a suitable site was identified and secured, the Position Establishment exercise commenced. This phase was dedicated to setting up the artillery in the predetermined firing positions with utmost efficiency. Tasks included leveling uneven ground when necessary, rigorously setting up camouflage to blend the artillery with the surrounding environment, and preparing the ammunition for immediate and effective firing.

In addition to offensive setup, the Defensive Measure component was integral. It trained units to implement robust defensive strategies around their firing positions. This included digging trenches or constructing protective barriers to fortify the positions against potential enemy offenses. These measures ensured a comprehensive approach, balancing offensive capabilities with defensive fortifications for maximum operational effectiveness.

The Setup of Communication Networks was a strategic initiative focused on establishing robust and reliable communication systems, a cornerstone for effective and coordinated artillery operations. This crucial activity rigorously tested the ability of military units to expediently establish and manage effective communication networks in diverse operational environments.

The Field Communication System Setup played a pivotal role in this process. It involved the deployment and meticulous testing of various field communication equipment, encompassing radios, satellite communication devices, and other vital electronic communication tools. The primary emphasis during these operations was to ensure not just the reliability but also the security of communications between the artillery units, command centers, and other integral military elements, such as infantry or air support. This comprehensive approach ensured a seamless flow of information across different branches of the military.

Moreover, the Testing in Various Terrains was a key aspect of this initiative. To guarantee the versatility and reliability of these communication networks, they were rigorously tested under different terrain conditions, including urban landscapes, dense forests, and rugged mountainous areas. This wide-ranging testing helped in identifying and addressing potential issues and limitations of the communication equipment in varied environmental settings, thereby enhancing overall operational efficiency.

Furthermore, Redundancy and Contingency Planning were integral components of this strategy. This involved training personnel to proficiently set up redundant communication channels and formulate detailed contingency plans to counter potential equipment failures or deliberate jamming efforts by enemy forces. Such comprehensive preparation ensured that, in the event of primary communication channels being compromised, alternate means were readily available to maintain critical communication lines, thus safeguarding the continuity and effectiveness of military operations.​

 

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Secret unless contextual possible.​

The second phase of Exercise Siam Thunder 2003, following the comprehensive five-day Deployment Phase, commenced under the title "Fire Coordination and Control Phase." This phase was meticulously designed with the primary objective of augmenting the effectiveness of the artillery units. The focus was on refining their coordination skills and enhancing both the accuracy and efficiency of their fire missions. Integral to this phase was the implementation of advanced targeting technologies and communication systems, aimed at streamlining the command-and-control process. The Defense Ministry and the Armed Forces held the expectation that this operation would significantly elevate the level of artillery support, ensuring that it was not just timely but also executed with unparalleled precision.

The first activity, known as the Simulated Target Engagement, was meticulously designed to replicate a realistic combat environment, enabling artillery units to practice target engagement with heightened realism. This exercise aimed to develop proficiency in swiftly acquiring, engaging, and neutralizing targets, a crucial skill in actual combat scenarios. One of the key components of this exercise was Targeting Drills. These drills emphasized the rapid identification and precise engagement of targets. They involved utilizing intelligence and reconnaissance data to accurately locate targets. Once identified, the artillery units were tasked with calculating the firing solution and executing fire orders efficiently, mirroring the time-sensitive nature of real battlefield operations. Another critical aspect was the Adjusting Fire activity. This element of the exercise aimed to hone the artillery units' skills in modifying their fire based on real-time feedback from spotters and direct observations. This process entailed recalculating firing parameters to account for variables like wind speed, distance, and target movement, and then quickly re-engaging the targets. This activity was essential for improving the accuracy and effectiveness of artillery fire. Additionally, the Switching Between Targets component was designed to train the artillery units in rapidly shifting focus between multiple targets. This aspect of the exercise simulated the dynamic and fluid nature of a battlefield, where threats could emerge from various directions and require immediate attention. This training was critical in preparing the units for scenarios where they might need to quickly reorient their focus and firepower in response to evolving battlefield conditions.

During the second activity, Fire Mission Planning, the primary objective was to develop and refine the process of planning and executing complex fire missions, necessitating coordination with various military elements. A key component of this exercise was the Development of Fire Plans. This involved meticulously crafting detailed fire plans that precisely specified the targets, the precise timing of the mission, the type of munitions to be utilized, and the desired effects on the target. A special emphasis, underscored by the Defense Ministry, was placed on ensuring that each plan meticulously aligned with the overarching operational goals while striving to minimize collateral damage. Another crucial aspect was the Coordination with Other Military Elements. This component involved training the artillery units not only in the technicalities of their operations but also in coordinating timing with other units. It was essential to ensure that fire support seamlessly complemented the actions of other military elements, thereby enhancing the overall effectiveness of the mission. Additionally, the Execution and Review phase played a vital role. This phase involved conducting live or simulated fire missions based on the developed plans. Following these missions, a critical review process was undertaken to meticulously analyze the outcomes. This review was not just a formal procedure, but a detailed evaluation aimed at identifying areas of improvement, drawing lessons, and refining tactics for future operations. This iterative process ensured a continuous enhancement in the effectiveness and precision of fire missions.

The last activity of the Fire Coordination and Control Phase was the Reali-time Coordination Exercise. This exercise aimed to enhance the ability of artillery units to coordinate in real-time with forward observers (FOs) and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for effective target acquisition and fire adjustment. Key components included the Integration with Forward Observers, which trained artillery units to focus on establishing and maintaining effective communication with Fos, who provided real-time information on target location and effectiveness of fire. This involved practicing procedures for rapid information exchange and decision-making. Another crucial aspect was the Working with UAVs, which included training on how to interpret UAV-provided data, coordinate UAV flight patterns with firing plans, and adjust fire based on aerial surveillance. Additionally, the Dynamic Fire Adjustment would engage in exercises that required artillery units to adjust fire in real-time based on information from Fos to UAVs. This would test the ability of the units to quickly process new information, recalibrate, and re-engage effectively.

The final activity of the Fire Coordination and Control Phase was the Real-time Coordination Exercise, a meticulously planned operation designed to enhance the synergy between artillery units, forward observers (FOs), and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). The primary goal was to refine the process of effective target acquisition and fire adjustment through real-time coordination. A key component of this exercise was the Integration with Forward Observers segment. Here, artillery units honed their skills in establishing and maintaining effective communication with FOs. The FOs played a crucial role by providing real-time information on target location and feedback on the effectiveness of the artillery fire. This segment involved practicing streamlined procedures for rapid information exchange and swift decision-making, ensuring that the artillery units could act quickly based on the intelligence relayed by the FOs. Another vital aspect was Working with UAVs. This training focused on how to accurately interpret data provided by UAVs, integrate UAV flight patterns into the firing plans, and adjust fire based on aerial surveillance. The UAVs would aim and be trained to offer a crucial aerial perspective, enhancing the accuracy and efficiency of the artillery's response. Additionally, the Dynamic Fire Adjustment segment required artillery units to engage in exercises that necessitated real-time fire adjustment, based on the collective input from both FOs and UAVs. This segment was pivotal in testing the units' ability to quickly process latest information, recalibrate their targeting, and re-engage with enhanced effectiveness.​

 

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Secret unless contextual possible.​

Exercise Siam Thunder 2003 moved into its third phase, termed the "Sustained Fire Operations Phase," seven days after the end of the complete Fire Coordination and Control Phase. The main goal of this phase's meticulous preparation was to evaluate and enhance the artillery units' capacity to provide reliable fire support for prolonged periods of deployment. The sustainability of these activities was as important as the accuracy and efficiency of the fire support. The purpose of this phase was to precisely test and reinforce the equipment's and personnel's endurance under extended operating conditions. This was a critical component because military operations frequently hinge on endurance, which is frequently necessary in prolonged combat scenarios. The exercise featured several days of nonstop operations that tested the limits of both human and material resources to replicate the demands of real conflict. The idea was to identify and remedy any vulnerabilities that might arise in long-term combat situations so that men and gear could remain combat-ready for lengthy periods of time.

To simulate the conditions of an extended combat operation where an artillery unit must provide continuous fire support, the first activity was the Prolonged Firing Exercises. Extended fire Sessions comprised long-duration fire exercises designed to simulate the difficulties of an extended fight. This was the first component of the plan. To replicate various battle situations, this involved altering the fire's frequency and intensity. Artillery systems would be continually used for prolonged periods of time as part of equipment durability testing to evaluate how well they function under continuous use. This would assist in locating any possible operational or mechanical problems that might develop during protracted combat operations. In order to preserve operational efficacy and safety, stress management would also monitor and control the crew's stress levels throughout a prolonged firing scenario.

The purpose of the second exercise, the Ammunition Resupply Drills, was to hone and perfect the logistics of supplying ammunition in a situation akin to war. The rapid and secure delivery of ammunition to firing positions would be the main emphasis of the Transport and Delivery training. Various modes of transportation, including as trucks and helicopters, would be employed depending on operational requirements and situations. During the Storage and Handling training, temporary ammunition storage locations would be set up close to firing positions, and safe handling techniques would be practiced—particularly in the event of simulated enemy fire or unfavourable weather conditions. With an emphasis on speed and safety, the Resupply Under Fire programme would undertake drills to replicate the resupply of ammunition while under enemy attack or in a high-threat scenario.

Crew Rotation Practices, the final activity, sought to establish and improve rotation patterns that guarantee continuous operation without sacrificing crew effectiveness because of weariness. Rotation schedules that strike a balance between the requirement for continuous operations and the need to control staff tiredness would be developed and tested throughout the rotation scheduling training. Determining the ideal shift durations and rest intervals was another aspect of this. To preserve operational capacity even when certain crew members were resting, the cross-training exercise would make sure that crew members were cross-trained in numerous duties. Through the implementation of protocols for rest and recovery during operations, the crew members' indicators of weariness would be monitored and managed as part of the weariness management training.​

 

[Bossza007]

Secret unless contextual possible.​

The “Night Operations” was the fourth phase of this Exercise Siam Thunder 2003. This phase would develop and refine the proficiency of artillery units in operating under limited visibility conditions. This phase would make the artillery units as effective at night as they are during the day.

The first activity was the Night Firing Exercises to train and test the artillery units in conducting firing missions under night conditions, where visibility was significantly reduced. They would conduct live-fire exercises during nighttime to simulate real combat scenarios. This included practicing target acquisition, aiming, and firing in the dark. They would use flares and other illumination methods to enhance visibility of targets. This also included understanding the tactical implications of using illumination, such as revealing your own position. They would evaluate the accuracy of firing under night conditions and identify adjustments needed in aiming and calculating firing solutions.

The second activity was the Use of Night Vision Equipment to ensure that personnel are proficient in the operation of night vision devices, which are essential for night operations. They would be instructed on the use of various night vision equipment, such as night vision goggles (NVGs) and infrared aiming devices. This included understanding how to operate, adjust, and optimize these devices for different conditions. The exercise would educate the crew on the limitations and operational challenges of night vision technology, such as limited field of view, depth perception issues, and the need for ambient light. They would be trained on the routine maintenance, care, and troubleshooting of night vision devices to ensure they are operational and reliable when needed.

The third activity was the Low-light Communication Drills to develop effective communication protocols for low-light conditions, which were crucial for coordination and safety during night operations. They would practice the use of non-visual signals for communication, such as radio communication, hand signals enhanced with infrared lights, or other covert methods. They would be trained on the use of specialized communication equipment designed for low-light or night conditions, like radios with night-vision compatible displays. The training and exercise would emphasize noise discipline during night operations, as sound travels further at night and could compromise the unit's position. This included training on silent communication methods and the judicious use of communication devices.​