Cobra Gold expands into space and cyber domainsListen to this articleThailand and the United States have begun preparations for Cobra Gold 2026, a joint military exercise that will expand training to include space operations and enhanced cybersecurity amid rising regional and transnational security threats. Gen Ukris Boontanondha, Thailand's chief of defence forces, said on Monday that Cobra Gold 2026 would mark a major step forward by integrating proactive space operations into the exercise. Rapid technological advances have also elevated space into a new domain of modern warfare, he said. He expressed confidence that the trust and capabilities built through Cobra Gold would help participating countries overcome future crises, reaffirming Thailand's commitment to peace while remaining ready to defend its sovereignty and regional stability. He described Cobra Gold as a clear symbol of the enduring alliance between the two nations, noting that it is the longest-running and largest multinational military exercise in the Asia-Pacific region, now in its 45th year.
