Cambodia’s Senate President Hun Sen stated that the recent delivery of Chinese-made Type-59D tanks is unrelated to the recent border clash with Thailand. He confirmed the tank order, expected to exceed 100 units, was placed several years prior to the conflict. The clarification aims to dispel any suggestion the acquisition was an escalatory response to the border situation. Hun Sen emphasized the tanks are intended solely for Cambodia’s self-defence capabilities. The first shipment has recently arrived, with further deliveries anticipated. This acquisition represents a significant modernization effort for the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces. Officials maintain the purchase was a long-planned investment in national security.