India, Thailand begin military exercise ‘Maitree’

• The 15th edition of the joint military exercise ‘Maitree’ between India and Thailand began at Vibhavadi Rangsit Camp, Surat Thani, Thailand on August 18.

• The Indian Army and Royal Thai Army contingents comprise 85 personnel each. 

• The Indian Army contingent is represented primarily by troops from 9 Gorkha Rifles, while the Royal Thai Army contingent comprises personnel from the 3rd Battalion, 25th Infantry Brigade, 5th Division. 

• The exercise seeks to enhance combined capabilities in executing joint counter-insurgency and counter-terrorist operations in jungle and semi-urban environment under a United Nations charter.

• The previous edition of the exercise was conducted at Foreign Training Node, Umroi, Meghalaya in September 2025.

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

• Exercise Maitree is an important platform for sharing best practices and strengthening military cooperation between India and Thailand. 

• The exercise will enhance interoperability, mutual understanding and camaraderie between the two armies, further reinforcing the longstanding bilateral relations between India and Thailand. 

Other bilateral exercises between India and Thailand:

• Siam Bharat - Air Force

• Ayutthaya - Navy.

(The author is a trainer for Civil Services aspirants.)