New Delhi: The 14th edition of the India-Thailand joint military exercise ‘Maitree’ is currently underway in Meghalaya, focusing on company-level counter-terrorist operations in semi-urban terrain under the United Nations Charter. The fortnight-long exercise runs from September 1 to 14 at the Joint Training Node (JTN) in Umroi.
A grand opening ceremony marked the start of the exercise, which is part of the ongoing military-to-military exchange programme between India and Thailand. Instituted in 2006, ‘Maitree’ aims to enhance cooperation, interoperability, and mutual understanding between the Indian Army and the Royal Thai Army.
The Indian contingent comprises 120 personnel from a battalion of the Madras Regiment, while Thailand has sent 53 soldiers from the 1st Infantry Battalion, 14th Infantry Brigade. The exercise includes tactical drills, joint planning, special arms training, physical fitness routines, and raiding operations.
Officials said the exercise will culminate in a 48-hour validation exercise simulating realistic operational scenarios to test the skills and coordination of both armies.
The 13th edition of ‘Maitree’ was held in Thailand at Fort Vachiraprakan, Tak Province, continuing the long-standing tradition of bilateral military collaboration.
