India, Thailand Start Joint Military Exercise Maitree On August 18

India and Thailand are set to begin their 15th joint military exercise, Maitree, on August 18 in Thailand. The exercise will continue until August 31 and will be conducted at Vibhavadi Rangsit Camp in Surat Thani.

The Indian Army contingent, comprising 85 personnel primarily from 9 Gorkha Rifles, left for Thailand on Monday to participate in the bilateral exercise. The Royal Thai Army has also sent 85 personnel, including those from the 3rd Battalion, 25th Infantry Brigade, 5th Division.

The troops will undergo company-level joint training focused on operations in jungle and semi-urban terrain. The exercise aims to strengthen military cooperation between India and Thailand and improve their ability to operate together.

The training will include field exercises, combat discussions, lectures, and demonstrations before concluding with a validation exercise. The contingents will also exchange operational experience and showcase contemporary equipment and technologies used during joint operations.

Exercise Maitree will enhance the two armies' combined capabilities in conducting joint counter-insurgency and counter-terrorist operations in jungle and semi-urban environments under Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter.

Beyond tactical training, Maitree serves as an important platform for the two armies to understand each other's operational practices. The focus on interoperability and exchange of experience makes the exercise significant for strengthening military cooperation between India and Thailand.

The previous edition of Exercise Maitree was conducted at the Foreign Training Node in Umroi, Meghalaya, in September 2025. Instituted in 2006, Maitree provides India and Thailand a platform to share best practices and strengthen military cooperation.

The exercise is expected to improve interoperability, mutual understanding, and camaraderie between the two armies while reinforcing the longstanding bilateral relationship between the countries.

In the context of the current global security landscape, exercises like Maitree are crucial for building strong relationships between nations and enhancing their ability to respond to emerging threats.

The success of Exercise Maitree will have a positive impact on the bilateral relationship between India and Thailand, and will contribute to regional stability and security.

In conclusion, the 15th edition of Exercise Maitree is a significant development in the bilateral relationship between India and Thailand, and will play an important role in strengthening their military cooperation and enhancing their ability to operate together.