Singapore not using airbase for spying, says Thai minister

The Straits Times, March 9, 2007


BANGKOK - DEFENCE Minister Boonrawd Somtas has denied that Singapore's air force was allowed to exploit the use of a Thai military airport to spy on Thailand's neighbours.

He said all exercises at the Udon Thani airport north-east of Bangkok were carried out under the close supervision of the Royal Thai Air Force.

The use of the airport by Singapore had prompted protests at the air base last month, with demonstrators demanding a review of the pact allowing the Republic to use the airport.

Some National Legislative Assembly (NLA) members have expressed concern that Singapore's fighters might pass through no-fly zones and intrude into the airspace of Burma, Laos or China during their training missions.

However, Mr Boonrawd said that Singapore air force officials have to submit their plans to the Thai authorities at least 90 days before training starts.

He told the NLA session on Wednesday that training exercises are also monitored and training details have to be approved.

Singapore conducts four exercises at the air base every year and each lasts about three weeks.

The 15-year agreement for Singapore to use the air base was signed in November 2004 during the administration of ousted premier Thaksin Shinawatra.

THE NATION/ASIA NEWS NETWORK