The 15th edition of the India-Thailand Joint Military Exercise, MAITREE-XV (2026), is set to take place from 18 to 31 August 2026 at Vibhavadi Rangsit Camp in Surat Thani, Thailand. The Indian Army contingent has departed for Thailand to participate in the joint exercise.
The objective of the exercise is to strengthen military cooperation and coordination between the armies of the two countries. Its previous edition took place in September 2025 at Umroi, Meghalaya.
Exercise MAITREE is being conducted with the aim of strengthening military cooperation between India and Thailand. Under Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter, the armies of both nations will train for joint operations to combat terrorism and insurgency in jungle and urban environments. The exercise will involve tactical drills, discussions, demonstrations, and validation exercises, alongside the sharing of modern technology and operational experience.
85 soldiers each from the Indian and Thai armies are participating in this exercise. The Indian contingent primarily comprises troops from the 9 Gorkha Rifles, while the Thai contingent includes soldiers from the 3rd Battalion of the 25th Infantry Brigade, 5th Division. During the exercise, joint company-level training will be conducted in jungle and semi-urban environments.
Exercise MAITREE is a significant medium for strengthening military cooperation, interoperability, and mutual understanding between India and Thailand. It further reinforces the long-standing ties and goodwill between the two nations.
