China reveals joint military exercise with Thailand, first time using this force

China reveals details of joint military exercises with Thailand, including first use of special forces.

Image from a joint military exercise between China and Thailand last year. (Source: Royal Thai Air Force)

The Falcon Strike 2024 exercise began in northeastern Thailand on August 18, and according to China's state-run CCTV , it is more complex and wider in scope than previous exercises involving the two countries, the SCMP reported.

The exercises, which run until August 29, include cross-border support, force deployment, joint air defense, deterrence and situation briefing.

Under the framework of the exercise using special forces, fighter jets and helicopters to "enhance military cooperation and address common security challenges", commanders on both sides believe this will improve the tactical and technical skills of the troops.

This is "a significant change with far-reaching implications," said Chinese military analyst Fu Qianxiao.

According to him, the five-phase exercises "have all the necessary elements for a small-scale war." Initially, the military exercises between China and Thailand focused more on joint training, but now they have "more realistic combat nature."

China and Thailand have conducted annual air force exercises since 2015, with a two-year pause during the Covid-19 pandemic.

The participation of special forces and helicopter exercises this year has created a “new dimension,” said Deputy Prime Minister Tien Tieu. “In particular, helicopters allow low-altitude access, allowing forces to directly access important areas without parachutes.”

Source: https://baoquocte.vn/trung-quoc-tiet-lo-ve-cuoc-tap-tran-chung-voi-thai-lan-dau-tien-su-dung-luc-luong-nay-283467.html