Thai military upset by Google satellite pictures

BANGKOK (Reuters) - Thailand, afraid that detailed satellite pictures available on the internet threaten its national security, may ask Google to block images of important government buildings vulnerable to attack.

The US-based internet search leader runs the website www.earth.google.com, which it calls "a 3D interface to the planet." The site provides images of the earth from satellites and allows viewers to zoom in on single buildings.

The Thai military will discuss the issue with telecommunications and security agencies before approaching Google and other companies that provide similar services, Armed Forces spokesman Maj. Gen Weerasak Manee-in said.

"We are looking for possible restrictions on these detailed pictures, especially state buildings," Weerasak told Reuters. "I think pictures of tourist attractions should do."

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