The 14th edition of Exercise MAITREE, a bilateral military drill between India and Thailand, has kicked off in Meghalaya to enhance counter-terrorism skills, interoperability, and regional defence cooperation.
Overview:
The 14th edition of Exercise MAITREE, a joint military exercise between India and Thailand, began on September 1, 2025, at the Joint Training Node (JTN), Umroi in Meghalaya. It aims to strengthen defence ties, enhance operational interoperability, and showcase growing strategic cooperation in the Indo-Pacific region.
Objective and Significance of Exercise MAITREE
- Promoting Military Interoperability and Trust: Exercise MAITREE, initiated in 2006, focuses on enhancing mutual understanding, interoperability, and joint tactical capability to address regional security challenges.
- Bilateral Defence Commitment: The exercise underscores the shared commitment of both nations to peace, stability, and security in the region, especially concerning counter-terrorism threats and the Indo-Pacific’s strategic importance.
Composition of Forces
Indian Army Participation
- Unit: Battalion of the Madras Regiment
- Strength: 120 personnel
- Expertise: Counter-insurgency and jungle warfare
Royal Thai Army Participation
- Unit: 1st Infantry Battalion, 14th Infantry Brigade
- Strength: 53 personnel
- Specialization: Light infantry tactics and internal security operations
Training Focus and Activities
- Focus Areas: Urban Warfare and UN Charter Operations
- Key Training Modules:
- Joint tactical drills and coordination exercises
- Special arms and weapons handling skills
- Planning and execution of counter-insurgency operations
- Physical fitness and endurance sessions
- Combined raiding and clearance operations
Strategic Context and Regional Impact
- Expanding Indo-Pacific Cooperation: The exercise signifies the deepening military engagement between India and Thailand in the Indo-Pacific region to address geopolitical tensions and security threats.
- Follow-up to 2023 Edition: This year’s exercise in Meghalaya follows the 2023 edition held in Thailand, continuing the rotational format between the two countries.
Key Takeaways for Competitive Exams
- Name: Exercise MAITREE-XIV
- Dates: 1st–14th September 2025
- Location: Joint Training Node (JTN), Umroi, Meghalaya
- Focus: Counter-terror operations under UN Chapter VII in semi-urban terrain
- Initiated in: 2006 as a key bilateral military initiative
