New Delhi. The Indo-Thai joint military exercise Maitree 2018 commenced in Thailand on August 6. The opening ceremony started with familiarization of organisation and display of weapons & equipment of both armies.

Exercise Maitree is a joint military exercise between Indian Army and Royal Thai Army which would be conducted from August 6 to 19. It is a platoon level exercise which comprises of infantry component.

The exercise emphasises to hone the tactical and technical skills in joint counter insurgency and counter terrorist operations in rural and urban scenario under UN mandate. Due emphasis would be laid on increasing interoperability between forces from both countries which is crucial for success of any joint operation. Both sides will jointly train, plan and execute a series of well developed tactical drills for neutralization of likely threats that may be encountered in urban warfare scenario.

Experts from both sides would also hold detailed discussions to share their experience on varied topics for mutual benefit.

Exercise Maitree contributes immensely in developing mutual understanding and bonhomie between the two armies in order to counter terrorism.