‘Cobra Gold,’ SE Asia’s biggest military exercise begins with largest US involvement in years

‘Cobra Gold’, the largest multinational military exercise in Southeast Asia kicked off on February 28, 2023, in Thailand after a two-year break during the pandemic. Over 7,000 soldiers from 30 countries are taking part, including the most US troops attending in a decade. Analysts say it is a sign of Washington’s desire to renew alliances with Asian partners, as American relations with Beijing remain tense.