DD Correspondent
New Delhi, An Indian Army contingent departed for Thailand today to participate in the 15th edition of the India-Thailand joint military exercise, ‘Maitree-XV (2026)’. This joint military exercise will be conducted from August 18 to August 31, 2026, at the Vibhavadi Rangsit Camp in Surat Thani, Thailand. Previously, the 14th edition of the exercise was held in September 2025 at the Foreign Training Node in Umroi, Meghalaya.
85 military personnel each from the Indian Army and the Royal Thai Army are participating in the exercise. The Indian contingent primarily comprises troops from the 9 Gorkha Rifles, while the Thai side is represented by soldiers from the 3rd Battalion, 25th Infantry Brigade, 5th Division. Both armies will undertake joint training at the company level, with a special focus on conducting operations in jungle and semi-urban terrains.
The objective of ‘Maitree-XV’ is to strengthen military cooperation between India and Thailand and enhance the capabilities of both armies for joint operations. During the exercise, training will be imparted on conducting joint counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency operations. This training will focus on operations in jungle and semi-urban environments under “Chapter VII” of the United Nations Charter. It will include field exercises, combat discussions, lectures, demonstrations, and a final validation exercise. Soldiers from both nations will share their experiences regarding joint operations and demonstrate modern equipment and techniques.
Launched in 2006, the “Maitree’ exercise” serves as a significant platform for military cooperation and the sharing of experiences between India and Thailand. This exercise is expected to enhance mutual understanding, synergy, and interoperability between the two armies. Furthermore, this joint training will further strengthen the long-standing friendly and defense ties between the two nations.
