30 nations step up for annual Cobra Gold drillsListen to this articleThe Royal Thai Armed Forces and the United States Indo-Pacific Command will co-host the 45th iteration of Cobra Gold, one of Southeast Asia's longest-running and most significant multinational military exercises, from Feb 24 to March 6, a source said. According to a source, 2026 is designated a "Heavy Year", reflecting the expanded scope and complexity of the joint drills. Seven primary participants -- Thailand, the United States, Singapore, Indonesia, Japan, the Republic of Korea and Malaysia -- will form the core exercise forces. China, India and Australia will join in selected activities, with China continuing its participation in the humanitarian assistance programme. Another 10 nations -- Brunei, Germany, Jordan, Laos, the Netherlands, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, Sweden, Timor-Leste and Vietnam -- will join the Combined Observer Liaison Team.

Source: Bangkok Post January 23, 2026 03:07 UTC