Exercise MAITREE-XV (2026)

About Exercise MAITREE-XV (2026)

• It is a military exercise between India and Thailand.
• Started in: Exercise MAITREE was instituted in 2006.
• Aim: The aim of Exercise MAITREE is to foster Military Cooperation between India and Thailand.
• 2026 Host: The exercise will be conducted from 18 to 31 August 2026 at Vibhavadi Rangsit Camp, Surat Thani, Thailand.
  • 2025 Edition: Last edition of the same exercise was conducted at Foreign Training Node, Umroi, Meghalaya in September 2025
• Features
  • Contingents: The Indian Army and Royal Thai Army contingents comprise 85 personnel each.
    • The Indian Army contingent is represented primarily by troops from 9 Gorkha Rifles, while the Royal Thai Army contingent comprises personnel from the 3rd Battalion, 25th Infantry Brigade, 5th Division.
  • The exercise will involve company-level joint training focused on operations in jungle and semi-urban terrain.
• Significance
  • The Exercise will enhance combined capabilities in executing Joint Counter Insurgency/ Terrorist Operations in Jungle and semi-urban environment under Chapter VII of United Nations Charter.
  • The training will include field exercises, combat discussions, lectures, demonstrations and a culminating validation exercise.
  • The contingents will also exchange operational experience and showcase contemporary equipment and technologies employed during joint operations.