Exercise MAITREE-XV 2026
Prelims:
International
Relations
Mains:
GS Paper II –
International Relations, GS Paper III – Security
Current relevance:
The
Indian Army contingent departed for Thailand to participate in the 15th
edition of the India–Thailand Joint Military Exercise MAITREE-XV (2026).
Highlights:
Key Facts about Exercise: 
1.
MAITREE
is a joint military
exercise between the Indian Army and Royal Thai Army.
2.
It
was instituted in 2006 and the 2026 exercise is its 15th edition.
3.
Venue:
Vibhavadi Rangsit Camp,
Surat Thani, Thailand.
Aim & Training Focus:
1.
The
primary aim is to foster military cooperation between India and Thailand.
2.
It
seeks to enhance combined capabilities for Joint
Counter-Insurgency/Terrorist Operations in jungle and semi-urban
environments under Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter.
3.
It
involves company-level joint training, including:
i.
Field
exercises and combat discussions
ii.
Lectures
and demonstrations
iii.
Exchange
of operational experience
iv.
Display
of contemporary equipment and technologies
v.
Culminating
validation exercise
Significance:
1.
Enhances
interoperability between the Indian Army and Royal Thai Army.
2.
Facilitates
the sharing of best practices and operational experience.
3.
Improves
mutual understanding and camaraderie between the two Armies.
4.
Strengthens
bilateral military cooperation and reinforces the longstanding
relationship between India and Thailand.
Source: PIB - https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=2300293®=48&lang=1