US, Thailand lead 30 nations in Southeast Asia’s largest military drill
South China Morning Post
by KyodoFebruary 26, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The US and Thailand are leading one of Southeast Asia’s largest military exercises, Cobra Gold, with more than 8,000 personnel from 30 nations participating. Held across multiple provinces in Thailand until March 6, the drill aims to enhance coordination among participating countries and develop military capabilities tailored to current global challenges. The event is co-hosted by Thailand and the US, with full participation from Singapore, Indonesia, Japan, South Korea, and Malaysia. Notably, China, India, and Australia are engaging in selected activities, such as humanitarian aid programs.
The exercises focus on improving interoperability and addressing emerging security threats in the region. At the opening ceremony in Rayong province, US Ambassador to Thailand Sean O’Neill emphasized the importance of adapting Cobra Gold to meet new challenges. He highlighted its role in fostering cooperation and readiness to defend sovereignty and prosperity, both now and in the future.
Cobra Gold underscores the growing need for regional collaboration amid shifting geopolitical dynamics. The drill not only strengthens military ties but also showcases Thailand’s pivotal role as a hub for international security initiatives. By aligning with global circumstances, the exercises ensure that participating nations are prepared to address modern threats effectively. This makes Cobra Gold a critical platform for maintaining peace and stability in Southeast Asia.
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Originally published on South China Morning Post on 2/26/2026