India and Thailand begin 15th edition of Exercise Maitree on August 18 in Surat Thani

Key facts

• The 15th edition of the India-Thailand joint military exercise 'Maitree' is scheduled to be held from August 18 to 31, 2026.
• Exercise Maitree will be conducted at Vibhavadi Rangsit Camp, Surat Thani, Thailand.
• The exercise aims to enhance combined capabilities in executing joint counter-insurgency and counter-terrorist operations in jungle and semi-urban environments under Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter.
• The Indian Army and Royal Thai Army contingents each comprise 85 personnel.
• The Indian Army contingent is represented primarily by troops from 9 Gorkha Rifles.
• The Royal Thai Army contingent comprises personnel from the 3rd Battalion, 25th Infantry Brigade, 5th Division.
• Training will include field exercises, combat discussions, lectures, demonstrations, and a culminating validation exercise.
• Exercise Maitree was instituted in 2006, and its previous edition was held at Foreign Training Node, Umroi, Meghalaya, in September 2025.