• The 14th edition of the India-Thailand joint military exercise, ‘Maitree-XIV’ began at Joint Training Node (JTN), Umroi, Meghalaya on September 2.

• The Indian Army contingent, comprising 120 personnel, is being represented by a battalion of the Madras Regiment, while the Royal Thai Army is represented by 53 personnel from its 1st Infantry Battalion, 14th Infantry Brigade.

• The fortnight-long exercise aims to bolster defence cooperation, interoperability and mutual understanding between the Indian Army and the Royal Thai Army.

• The joint training will focus on company-level counter-terrorist operations in semi-urban terrain under Chapter VII of the UN Charter.

• It will feature tactical drills, joint planning, special arms training, physical fitness and raiding operations, culminating in a 48-hour validation exercise simulating real-world scenarios.

• Instituted in 2006, Exercise Maitree is one of the most significant bilateral military engagements between the two countries, reflecting their shared commitment to peace, stability and regional security.

• The previous edition was held at Fort Vachiraprakan in Thailand’s Tak Province.

Other bilateral exercises between India and Thailand:

• Siam Bharat - Air Force

• Ayutthaya - Navy.