The Indian Army contingent departed today for Thailand to participate in the 15th edition of the India-Thailand Joint Military Exercise MAITREE-XV (2026). The exercise will be conducted from 18 to 31 August 2026 at Vibhavadi Rangsit Camp, Surat Thani, Thailand. Last edition of the same exercise was conducted at Foreign Training Node, Umroi, Meghalaya in September 2025.

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 3^rd Battalion, 25^th Infantry Brigade, 5^th Division. The exercise will involve company-level joint training focused on operations in jungle and semi-urban terrain.

Aim of Exercise MAITREE 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 semi-urban Environment under Chapter VII of United Nations Charter. The training will include field exercises, combat discussions, lectures, demonstrations and a culminating validation exercise. The contingents will also exchange operational experience and showcase contemporary equipment and technologies employed during joint operations.

Instituted in 2006, 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 the two nations.

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Nishant/ Rinku Singh