The Indian Air Force and Royal Thai Air Force conducted Exercise Siam Bharat 2026, a joint Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) exercise, at Air Force Station Agra from August 23 to 29, 2026, aimed at strengthening bilateral preparedness and coordination for disaster-relief operations.
The exercise focused on enhancing the ability of the two air forces to operate together during humanitarian emergencies and natural disasters. It provided an opportunity for participating personnel to exchange operational knowledge, assess capabilities and develop a better understanding of procedures involved in coordinated HADR missions.
As part of the exercise, the participating contingents conducted tabletop exercises designed to examine responses to different disaster scenarios. These discussions enabled personnel to assess planning, coordination and decision-making requirements during complex humanitarian emergencies.
Capability exchanges formed another important component of Siam Bharat 2026, allowing the participating forces to share their experiences, operational practices and approaches to disaster response. Such exchanges contribute to improving mutual understanding and interoperability between the two air forces.
The exercise also included tactical air operations, providing practical exposure to the challenges associated with coordinating aviation assets during HADR missions. The operational activities were aimed at improving the ability of the participating forces to plan and execute joint responses in time-sensitive disaster situations.
Representatives from the National Disaster Response Force, National Disaster Management Authority, Directorate General of Research and Development Establishment and the Indian Army also participated in the engagement.
The involvement of multiple Indian agencies highlighted the importance of an integrated approach to disaster response, where military and civil agencies work together to provide timely assistance, evacuation and relief during major emergencies.
The participation of the Indian Army and key national disaster-management organisations also enabled the exercise to examine coordination beyond the air domain and strengthen understanding of the broader institutional mechanisms required during large-scale HADR operations.
Exercise Siam Bharat 2026 further strengthened the defence and operational relationship between India and Thailand by providing both sides with an avenue for professional interaction and practical cooperation in humanitarian operations.
The exercise underscored the growing importance of military capabilities in supporting disaster-relief efforts across the region, particularly in situations requiring rapid deployment, aerial mobility and coordinated response.
The seven-day engagement concluded with the participating personnel gaining valuable experience in joint planning, capability integration and operational coordination, reinforcing the commitment of India and Thailand towards effective humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.
Exercise Siam Bharat 2026 reflects the shared commitment of the Indian Air Force and Royal Thai Air Force to build integrated HADR capabilities and strengthen bilateral cooperation for responding effectively to disasters and humanitarian emergencies in the region.
