Thailand: The Red Shirts' Capabilities

Tensions between Thailand's anti-government United Front for Democracy Against Dictatorship protesters and the military could escalate during the weekend of April 17-18. The protesters, known as the Red Shirts, have shown low levels of tactical capability against security forces. Most Red Shirts are normal citizens from rural areas and will not be able to contend with the Thai military. However, political reasons could prevent the military from being able to overcome the protesters.