India, Thailand To Begin Joint Military Exercise Maitree On August 18

India and Thailand commence their 15th joint military exercise, Maitree, on August 18 at Thailand's Vibhavadi Rangsit Camp in Surat Thani. Indian and Thai troops will collaborate on counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism operations in jungle and semi-urban terrain for two weeks, until August 31. The Indian Army will deploy 85 personnel, comprising troops from 9 Gorkha Rifles, while the Royal Thai Army will send 85 personnel, mainly from the 3rd Battalion, 25th Infantry Brigade, 5th Division.

This exercise, which began on Monday as the Indian contingent arrived in Thailand, aims to enhance military cooperation and improve joint capabilities in conducting counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism operations in complex environments. Training will include field exercises, combat discussions, lectures, and demonstrations, culminating in a validation exercise. Moreover, the contingents will exchange operational experience and showcase contemporary equipment and technologies during joint operations.

Maitree, which started in 2006, also serves as a platform for the two armies to understand each other's operational practices and build camaraderie. The previous edition of the exercise was held in Umroi, Meghalaya, in September 2025. The ongoing bilateral exercise is expected to strengthen the longstanding relationship between India and Thailand while boosting interoperability and mutual understanding between their armies.