Bangkok (VNA) – The US andThailand launched the annual Cobra Gold military exercises at the SattahipRoyal Thai Marine Corps Base in Chonburi province, on February 14.
Cobra Gold, originally a bilateral drillbetween the US and Thailand, is now one of the world’s largest multinationalexercises, involving up to 30 countries. This year, it is participated by 29countries.
The exercises consist of three majorevents: a staff exercise that includes a senior leader seminar; a fieldtraining exercise that includes various training events to enhance regional tiesand coordination; and humanitarian projects in Thai communities.
The US has deployed 3,600 personnel fromits army, navy and air forces to directly take part in the drill, roughly thenumber of troops sent last year.
US Pacific Commander Admiral Harry B HarrisJr is in Thailand for the 10-day event.-VNA