Why in News?

  • An Indian Army contingent has departed 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.
  • Venue: Vibhavadi Rangsit Camp, Surat Thani, Thailand.
  • The previous edition was conducted at the Foreign Training Node, Umroi, Meghalaya, in September 2025.

PARTICIPATING FORCES

  • Indian Army: 85 personnel.
    • Mainly represented by troops from 9 Gorkha Rifles.
  • Royal Thai Army: 85 personnel.
    • Represented by personnel from the 3rd Battalion, 25th Infantry Brigade, 5th Division.
  • The exercise will involve company-level joint training.
FOCUS AREAS The training will focus on operations in:
  • Jungle terrain
  • Semi-urban terrain
The exercise will particularly strengthen the ability of both armies to conduct joint counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism operations. AIM OF EXERCISE MAITREE The main objective is to strengthen military cooperation between India and Thailand. The exercise aims to:
  • Enhance combined operational capabilities.
  • Improve interoperability between the two armies.
  • Strengthen mutual understanding.
  • Promote exchange of operational experience and best practices.
  • Improve coordination during joint operations.
  • Build greater camaraderie between personnel of both armies.
TRAINING ACTIVITIES The exercise will include:
  • Field exercises
  • Combat discussions
  • Lectures
  • Demonstrations
  • Culminating validation exercise
The two contingents will also:
  • Exchange operational experiences.
  • Share best practices.
  • Demonstrate contemporary equipment and technologies used during joint operations.
UN Charter Framework · Joint counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism operations will be conducted under Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter. · Chapter VII deals with actions in respect of threats to the peace, breaches of the peace and acts of aggression.

EXERCISE MAITREE

  • Exercise MAITREE was instituted in 2006.
  • It serves as an important platform for strengthening military cooperation between India and Thailand.
  • Regular exercises provide both armies with opportunities to exchange operational knowledge and improve their ability to work together.
SIGNIFICANCE FOR INDIA THAILAND RELATIONS MAITREE-XV strengthens the long-standing defence relationship between India and Thailand by promoting:
  • Military interoperability
  • Operational cooperation
  • Counter-terrorism cooperation
  • Exchange of best practices
  • Professional interaction
  • Mutual trust and understanding
The exercise also contributes to broader India–Thailand bilateral relations and strengthens cooperation in the field of defence and security.