The 14th edition of the India–Thailand joint military exercise “Maitree” is currently underway at the Joint Training Node (JTN) in Umroi, Meghalaya, from September 1 to September 14, 2025. Instituted in 2006 as part of the bilateral military-to-military exchange program, Exercise Maitree has evolved into a vital platform for strengthening operational synergy, interoperability, and mutual confidence between the Indian Army and the Royal Thai Army.

This year’s edition has brought together an Indian Army contingent of 120 personnel, represented by a battalion of the Madras Regiment, along with a 53-member contingent from the 1st Infantry Battalion, 14th Infantry Brigade of the Royal Thai Army.

The exercise is focused on company-level counter-terrorist operations in semi-urban terrain, executed within the operational framework of Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter, which deals with peace enforcement and actions in response to threats to international peace and security.

The two-week-long joint training program is being conducted in a phased format, structured to progressively enhance integration between the contingents.

It commenced with a grand opening ceremony on September 2, symbolising the deep-rooted friendship and growing defence cooperation between the two nations.

The joint drills involve tactical-level exercises, counter-terrorist planning, special arms skills training, close-quarter battle techniques, physical endurance activities, and raiding operations designed to simulate real-world scenarios where rapid coordination and precision are essential.

Participants are engaging in joint mission planning, intelligence sharing, and combat leadership exercises to ensure seamless interoperability. The highlight of the exercise will be a 48-hour validation exercise toward the culmination of the training phase, during which the combined troops will operate under realistic operational conditions to neutralise simulated insurgent threats, execute coordinated assaults, and conduct high-intensity operations in semi-urban environments.

Beyond the tactical outcomes, Exercise Maitree also underscores the strategic importance of Indo-Thai defence collaboration amid evolving regional security challenges in South and Southeast Asia. It emphasises both nations’ mutual commitment to combating terrorism, transnational threats, and insurgency-like conditions through combined operations built on shared experience.

The exercise also fosters cross-cultural exchanges and camaraderie by providing an opportunity for soldiers from both sides to interact socially and understand operational methodologies unique to each army. Last year’s 13th edition of Maitree was successfully held at Fort Vachiraprakan in Thailand’s Tak Province, and the continued annual alternation of host nations reflects the consistent political and strategic will to maintain momentum in defence ties.

By combining India’s extensive counter-terrorism experience in diverse terrains with Thailand’s operational expertise in jungle and border security, Exercise Maitree 2025 not only enhances professional skills but also strengthens the broader fabric of India–Thailand defence and diplomatic engagement, reinforcing stability and security cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region.

Based On PTI Report