India–Thailand Joint Exercise: MAITREE-XIV

Context

• The 14th edition of Exercise MAITREE began on September 1, 2025 at the Joint Training Node, Umroi, Meghalaya.

• Exercise MAITREE, instituted in 2006, annual bilateral military exercise.

• Scheduled from September 1–14, 2025.

• Part of the ongoing military-to-military exchange programme to boost defence ties.

Participants

• India: 120 personnel from a battalion of the Madras Regiment.

• Thailand: 53 soldiers from the 1st Infantry Battalion, 14th Infantry Brigade.

Focus & Objectives

• Theme: Company-level counter-terrorist operations in semi-urban terrain.

• Mandate: Conducted under Chapter VII of the UN Charter (Action with respect to threats to peace, breaches of peace, and acts of aggression).

• Aims:

  • Enhance interoperability between armies.

  • Build mutual understanding in counter-terrorism operations.

  • Share best practices in semi-urban warfare.

Background

• Previous Edition (2023): Held at Fort Vachiraprakan, Tak Province, Thailand.

• Regularity: Annual/biannual exercise, strengthening India–Thailand military cooperation since early 2000s.

• Symbolism:

  • Reinforces India’s Act East Policy.

  • Enhances security partnership with ASEAN nations.

  • Complements wider cooperation in defence, maritime security, and counter-terrorism.