Disclaimer: Copyright infringement not intended.

Context

• The maiden Bilateral Maritime Exercise between the Indian Navy (IN) and Royal Thai Navy (RTN) was conducted from 20 to 23 December 2023.
• The 36th edition of India-Thailand Coordinated Patrol (Indo-Thai CORPAT) was also conducted along with the maiden bilateral exercise.

Details

The inaugural Bilateral Maritime Exercise

Participants:

• Indigenously built Indian Naval ships Kulish and IN LCU 56
• His Thai Majesty's Ship (HTMS) Prachuap Khiri Khan representing the Royal Thai Navy
• Concurrent participation in the 36th India-Thailand Coordinated Patrol (Indo-Thai CORPAT)

Objectives:

• Strengthening operational coordination
• Increasing exercise complexity
• Fostering closer ties between Indian Navy and Royal Thai Navy

Activities:

During the maiden edition, participating units engaged in:

• Surface and anti-air exercises
• Weapon firing
• Seamanship evolutions
• Tactical maneuvers
• Inclusion of Maritime Patrol Aircraft from both navies in the Sea Phase

Strategic Significance:

Aligning with the 'Security And Growth for All in the Region' (SAGAR) vision:

• Proactive engagement of Indian Navy in enhancing regional maritime security
• Indo-Thai CORPAT and Bilateral Exercise contributing to regional stability

Symbolism - 'Ex-Ayutthaya':

• Meaning: 'The Invincible One' or 'Undefeatable'
• Symbolic connection between ancient cities:
  • Ayodhya in India
  • Ayutthaya in Thailand
• Signifying historic legacies, rich cultural ties, and shared historical narratives

India-Thailand Coordinated Patrol (CORPAT)

• Initiated in 2005 along the International Maritime Boundary Line.
• Conducted biannually to strengthen maritime security.
• Includes Maritime Patrol Aircraft from both navies.

Exercise MAITREE

• Annual training event alternately hosted in India and Thailand since 2006.
• Aims at enhancing military-to-military cooperation.
• Focused on joint training, knowledge exchange, and interoperability.

Exercise SIAM BHARAT (Air Force)

• Air Force exercise complementing naval cooperation.
• Aims at strengthening bilateral air capabilities.
• Addresses shared security concerns and challenges.

Conclusion

The successful conduct of the Bilateral Maritime Exercise exemplifies a commitment to cooperation, interoperability, and mutual understanding. 'Ex-Ayutthaya' strengthens the bonds between India and Thailand, fostering a collaborative approach towards maritime security in the region.

PRACTICE QUESTION Q. India and Thailand share a long-standing relationship that dates back over 2,000 years. In 2022, the two nations celebrated the completion of 75 years of diplomatic relations. Discuss how can both nations leverage this relationship to enhance their strategic partnership in the future. (250 Words)