Thai, Chinese Armies Launch Drills in Chiang Mai

The Thai and Chinese armies have launched the joint military exercise STRIKE 2026 in Chiang Mai province, with the drills aimed at strengthening special operations capabilities and deepening military ties between the two countries. The exercise began with an opening ceremony on 18 May, co-chaired by Maj. Gen. Sunthorn Kamlangmak, chief of staff of Thailand’s Special Warfare Command, and Senior Col. Yang Binbin, deputy chief of staff of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army Southern Theater Command’s 75th Group Army.

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The exercise is being held from 18-28 May at the 5th Special Forces Regiment in Mae Rim district, Muang district and nearby areas in Chiang Mai province. According to the Thai army, the drills are intended to improve joint operational capabilities and promote the exchange of military knowledge between Thailand and China.

Training activities during STRIKE 2026 include joint operations, cliff assault and rappelling exercises, Tactical Combat Casualty Care (TCCC) and jungle survival training. The army said the programme reflects close military cooperation between the two countries while also enhancing combat readiness and supporting regional security stability.

The exercise forms part of continuing military engagement between Thailand and China, which have regularly conducted joint training activities in recent years. Thai military officials said the programme allows personnel from both countries to exchange operational experience and strengthen coordination in special warfare operations.

The opening ceremony brought together senior officers and troops from both sides, highlighting ongoing defence relations between Bangkok and Beijing. The drills are focused on practical field operations and specialised combat training in northern Thailand’s terrain.

Military analysts have often viewed such exercises as part of wider regional defence cooperation efforts, particularly as countries in Asia seek to improve interoperability and readiness for a range of operational scenarios. The Thai army has emphasised that the exercise is intended to build professional military skills and maintain regional security cooperation.

Khaosod reported that the training programme will continue until 28 May, with troops carrying out a series of joint exercises across designated training areas in Chiang Mai province. Officials are expected to review the outcome of the exercise at its conclusion, with both sides likely to assess operational lessons and future areas of cooperation.

Pictures courtesy of Khaosod

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Adapted by ASEAN Now Amarin 19 May 2026