DefenceTuesday, 18 August 2026·Hindu Tamil Thisai
India and Thailand begin 15th Maitree joint military exercise in Thailand on 18 August 2026
The 15th India-Thailand Maitree exercise began in Thailand on 18 August 2026 with 85 Indian Army personnel from the 9th Gorkha Rifles.
Key highlights
Direct fact
On 18 August 2026, the 15th India-Thailand “Maitree” joint military exercise began in Thailand and will continue until 31 August 2026.
Key specifics
- India is represented by an 85-member Army contingent.
- The Indian side includes personnel from the 9th Gorkha Rifles, while Thailand is represented by the 3rd Battalion.
- The Maitree exercise started in 2006, making 2026 the 15th edition.
- The drill is meant to share operational experience and showcase modern military equipment and technology.
- The exercise aims to improve best practices and mutual understanding between the two armies.
Exam lens
Question type: defence exercise MCQ. Key facts: 18 August 2026, Thailand, 15th edition, 85 Indian personnel, 9th Gorkha Rifles, 3rd Battalion, 2006 start. TNPSC one-liner: identify the bilateral military exercise that began in Thailand with 85 Indian soldiers.