A contingent of the Indian Army has embarked on the journey to participate in the 13th edition of the India-Thailand joint military exercise, “Maitree”.
Scheduled from July 1 to 15, the exercise will take place at Fort Vachiraprakan in Thailand’s Tak Province.
This marks a continuation of bilateral military cooperation between the two nations, following the previous edition held at Umroi, Meghalaya in September 2019.
Comprising 76 personnel, the Indian contingent is predominantly represented by a Battalion of the Ladakh Scouts, accompanied by personnel from various other arms and services.
On the Thai side, the Royal Thailand Army contingent also includes 76 personnel, primarily from the 1st Battalion, 14 Infantry Regiment of 4 Division.
The primary objective of the 15-day exercise is to strengthen military cooperation between India and Thailand.
The exercise aims to enhance joint capabilities in executing counter-insurgency and counter-terrorism operations in both jungle and urban environments, in alignment with Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter.
Emphasis will be placed on achieving high levels of physical fitness, joint planning, and executing tactical drills in a coordinated manner.
During the exercise, several key tactical exercises are set to take place over its duration that include establishing a Joint Operation Centre to coordinate military activities.
Intelligence & Surveillance Centre operations too will be conducted to gather and analyse critical information.
The deployment and management of drones, along with counter-drone systems, will enhance aerial reconnaissance capabilities and soldiers will practice securing landing sites swiftly and effectively.
Small team insertion and extraction manoeuvres will simulate rapid deployment scenarios.
Special heliborne operations are scheduled for precise troop movements by air.
Cordon and search operations will hone urban warfare tactics, while room intervention drills will refine close-quarters combat skills.
Additionally, demolition exercises will focus on neutralizing illegal structures effectively.
These exercises aim to bolster joint operational capabilities and foster closer military cooperation between India and Thailand.
The exercise will facilitate the exchange of best practices in tactics, techniques, and procedures for conducting joint operations between the Indian and Thai militaries.
It aims to promote interoperability, camaraderie, and mutual understanding among the soldiers of both countries.
