BANGKOK — Thailand is preparing to host the annual Cobra Gold military exercise, one of the largest multinational military exercises in the Indo-Pacific region, starting February 25, 2025, according to the U.S. Embassy in Bangkok.
The exercise from February 24 to March 7, 2025 will bring together forces from approximately 30 nations, including 3,200 U.S. personnel, either as direct participants or observers.
This year’s Cobra Gold will focus on three main components: a command-and-control exercise, humanitarian civic assistance projects, and a field training exercise designed to enhance military interoperability and strengthen regional partnerships.
The Royal Thai Armed Forces, co-hosting the exercise, has scheduled several major events across various locations in Thailand. The opening ceremony will take place at the Suranaree Camp in Nakhon Ratchasima province, marking the beginning of the two-week exercise.
Key events include a Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief demonstration in Chachoengsao province, Non-combatant Evacuation Operations at Air Squadron 101 in Nakhon Ratchasima, and an Amphibious Exercise at Hat Yao in Chonburi province. The exercise will also feature humanitarian projects, including a building handover ceremony at Nong Nok Khian Samakkhi School.
The exercise will culminate with a Combined Arms Live-Fire Exercise and closing ceremony on March 7 at the Tactical Training Field in Nakhon Ratchasima province.
Military officials emphasize that beyond the tactical training aspects, Cobra Gold serves a crucial role in fostering cooperation and goodwill among participating nations through relationship building at all service levels. The exercise is designed to enhance regional security cooperation while operating within international rules and norms.
This year’s iteration of Cobra Gold continues the exercise’s long-standing tradition of promoting stability and security in the Indo-Pacific region through multinational military collaboration and humanitarian assistance programs.
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