• The armies of India and Thailand are participating in the 13th edition of joint military exercise Maitree from July 1 to 15. 

• The exercise is being conducted at Fort Vachiraprakan in Tak Province of Thailand. 

• The first edition of Maitree exercise was conducted in 2006.

• The previous edition of the exercise was conducted at Umroi, Meghalaya in September 2019.

• The Indian Army contingent comprising 76 personnel is being represented mainly by a Battalion of the Ladakh Scouts along with personnel from other arms and services. 

• The Royal Thailand Army contingent also comprises 76 personnel mainly from 1st Battalion, 14 Infantry Regiment of 4 Division.

• The aim of Maitree exercise is to foster military cooperation between India and Thailand. 

• The exercise will enhance combined capabilities in executing joint counter insurgency/terrorist operations in jungle and urban environments under Chapter VII of United Nations Charter. 

• The exercise will focus on high degree of physical fitness, joint planning and joint tactical drills.

• It will enable the two sides to share their best practices in tactics, techniques and procedures for conduct of joint operations. 

• It will facilitate developing interoperability and camaraderie between soldiers of both the countries.

Other bilateral exercises between India and Thailand:

• Siam Bharat - Air Force

• Ayutthaya - Navy.

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