New Delhi: An Indian Army contingent has departed for Thailand to take part in the 15th edition of Exercise MAITREE, as the two countries prepare for nearly two weeks of joint military training focused on operations in jungle and semi-urban terrain.
Exercise MAITREE-XV (2026) will be conducted from 18 to 31 August at Vibhavadi Rangsit Camp in Surat Thani, Thailand, the Ministry of Defence said on 17 August. The previous edition was held at the Foreign Training Node in Umroi, Meghalaya, in September 2025.
The Indian Army and the Royal Thai Army will field 85 personnel each. The Indian contingent is represented primarily by troops from 9 Gorkha Rifles, while the Royal Thai Army contingent comprises personnel from the 3 Battalion, 25 Infantry Brigade, 5 Division.
The exercise will involve company-level joint training aimed at strengthening military cooperation and interoperability between the two armies, with a focus on operations in jungle and semi-urban terrain.
According to the Defence Ministry, MAITREE-XV will enhance the combined capabilities of the two armies in conducting joint counter-insurgency and counter-terrorist operations in jungle and semi-urban environments under Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter.
The training programme will include field exercises, combat discussions, lectures and demonstrations, followed by a culminating validation exercise. The two contingents will also exchange operational experience and showcase contemporary equipment and technologies used during joint operations.
Exercise MAITREE was instituted in 2006 and serves as a platform for India and Thailand to share military best practices and strengthen defence cooperation.
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