Royal Thai Army and Australian Army Conducted CHAPEL GOLD 2026 Joint Exercise

30 Juni 2026

Chapel Gold 2026 joint exercise at Chakraphong Camp, Prachinburi Province (photos: RTA)

Chapel Gold is an annual tactical exercise between the Royal Thai Army and the Australian Army, from platoon to battalion level, rotating training areas across different army regions each year.

This year's Chapel Gold 2026 exercise is taking place from June 18-29, 2026. The 1st Army Region is deploying over 400 personnel from the 2nd Infantry Regiment, Royal Guard, to participate alongside over 150 personnel from the Australian Army's Rifle Company Butterworth 148 (RCB 148).

On June 18, 2026, Major General Benjapol Dechatiwong Na Ayutthaya, Commander of the 2nd Infantry Division, Royal Guard, and Captain Paul Welch, RAN, Australian Military Attaché to Thailand, officially started the exercise. Co-presiding over the opening ceremony of the training exercise at Chakraphong Camp, Prachinburi Province.

This training involved soldiers from both countries participating in various exercises, including strategic operations, jungle survival, tactical shooting, and armored unit operations. It also facilitated the exchange of knowledge, experience, and military skills to enhance military familiarity and foster good relations between the two nations.

The Royal Thai Army believes that the Chapel Gold 2026 combined exercise will not only enhance the skills and combat readiness of personnel from both countries but also serve as a bridge to strengthen good relations and reflect a shared commitment to maintaining stability, security, and readiness to face various missions at both regional and international levels.

(Royal Thai Army)