India-Thailand Maitree Exercise Begins on August 18

The 15th edition of the India-Thailand bilateral military exercise, MAITREE-XV, is scheduled from 18 August to 31 August 2026 at Vibhavadi Rangsit Camp in Surat Thani, Thailand. The Indian Army contingent departed on 17 August 2026, and both sides are fielding 85 personnel each.

Exercise Maitree

Exercise Maitree is a bilateral army exercise between India and Thailand that began in 2006. It is conducted by the Indian Army and the Royal Thai Army as part of regular defence cooperation between the two countries.

Training Profile and Units

The Indian Army is represented by the 9 Gorkha Rifles, while the Royal Thai Army is represented by the 3rd Battalion, 25th Infantry Brigade, 5th Division. The exercise is being conducted at company level and includes field exercises, combat discussions, lectures, technology demonstrations, and a concluding validation exercise.

Operational Focus

The training is designed for joint counter-insurgency and counter-terrorist operations in jungle and semi-urban terrain. The exercise framework refers to Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter, which deals with action with respect to threats to the peace, breaches of the peace, and acts of aggression.

Important Facts for Exams

• Exercise Maitree is a bilateral military exercise between India and Thailand.
• MAITREE-XV is the 15th edition of the exercise.
• The previous edition was held in September 2025 at the Foreign Training Node in Umroi, Meghalaya.
• Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter covers peace and security-related enforcement measures.