17-7-2023 (BANGKOK) Thailand and China are currently engaged in a series of joint military exercises spanning the air forces, armies, and navies of both nations. According to a military source, these exercises will take place from July to September and are aimed at strengthening cooperation between the two countries while upholding regional peace and stability.
The first exercise, named “Falcon Strike 2023,” commenced on July 9 and focuses on joint air combat operations. The annual exercise, held in Udon Thani at the Thai air force base, aims to enhance collaboration between the Thai and Chinese air forces. The opening ceremony marked the beginning of the exercise, which will continue until July 21. Falcon Strike was first conducted in 2015, with subsequent editions in 2017, 2018, and 2019, before being paused due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
Thai aircraft participating in the 2023 exercise include the Gripen 39 C/D, Alpha Jets, and Saab 340 AEW fighters. China has deployed J-10C/S, JH-7 A/AII, J-11B/S, and KJ-500 fighters. It is worth noting that, under an agreement between the Thai and United States air forces, Thai Royal Air Force (RTAF) F16 and F5 fighters are prohibited from participating in joint exercises with China.
From August 16 to September 2, the Thai and Chinese armies’ special warfare units will participate in the Joint Strike 2023 exercise, set to take place in Lop Buri province. This exercise aims to enhance cooperation and coordination between the two armies in various specialized warfare scenarios.
Furthermore, the Blue Strike exercise, a joint naval exercise, is scheduled from September 3 to 10 in the provinces of Chon Buri, Rayong, and Chanthaburi in the East of Thailand. This exercise occurs biennially, with both countries taking turns as the host. On August 31, Chinese warships and amphibious landing ships are expected to arrive at Sattahip in Chon Buri province.
A source from the Thai navy revealed that this year’s exercise will be conducted discreetly due to the heightened tensions between China and the United States in the South China Sea.
