CHIANG MAI, Feb 11 — Cobra Gold 2013, the annual joint military exercise, has officially begun in the northern province of Chiang Mai.
Adm Yuttana Phagpolngam, Deputy Supreme Commander and US Ambassador to Thailand Kristie A Kenney jointly presided at the opening ceremony of the military drill being held in Thailand from today through Feb 21.
The exercise is the largest multinational exercise in the Asia-Pacific region. Approximately 13,000 participants from seven full participating nations and many observer nations.
The exercise consists of a staff exercise, various senior leader engagements, a field training exercise, humanitarian and civic assistance projects. Fully participating nations in the exercise include the Thailand, the United States, Singapore, Japan, South Korea, Indonesia and Malaysia.
The observers are China, Brunei, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Russia, South Africa and the United Arab Emirates.
During the field training exercise, the armed forces will conduct trainings including flight operations, amphibious training, and various training events that will enhance small-unit tactics and the ability to operate as part of a multinational team.
The humanitarian and civic assistance projects include construction projects, various community health engagements and medical assistance programs.
The exercise covers Phitsanulok, Sukhothai, Lop Buri, Chon Buri and Chanthaburi provinces.
The US and Thailand have co-hosted Cobra Gold since 1982. Cobra Gold 2013 is the 32nd edition of the annual joint military drill.
