COBRA GOLD is an annual joint/combined multilateral exercise to improve readiness and interoperability between participating forces. Here, the five-nation color guard posts their colors during the opening ceremony for COBRA GOLD 2004 in Korat, Thailand. Photo by SSgt. JoAnn S. Makinano, USAF

U.S. Ambassador to Thailand Darryl N. Johnson addresses participants during the opening ceremony. Photo by MSgt. James E. Lotz, USAF

Lately we have focused on peacekeeping operations. We have been able to exchange ideas, learn to use equipment, and do better staff work.
Gen. Veerachai Iamsaad Deputy Supreme Commander
Royal Thai Armed Forces

Five nations participated in a major coalition interoperability exercise in Thailand – COBRA GOLD 2004. The countries were Mongolia, the Philippines, Singapore, Thailand, and the U.S. COBRA GOLD is an annual joint/combined multilateral exercise to improve readiness and interoperability between participating forces. It also enhances security and humanitarian interests between friends and allies in the Asia-Pacific region. The May 2004 exercise scenario focused on improving interoperability between coalition forces conducting a UN-sponsored peace enforcement operation in conjunction with humanitarian and disaster-relief operations.  As in previous COBRA GOLD exercises, this exercise included joint/combined land, sea, and air operations. 

A Royal Thai military band begins the opening ceremony for COBRA GOLD 2004. Photo by SSgt. JoAnn S. Makinano, USAF

---

Compiled by Asia-Pacific Defense FORUM staff from press releases by the Singapore Ministry of Defense and by COBRA GOLD Combined Information Bureau authors JO1 Phil Hasenkamp, USN; Spec. Sarah Wilkins, USA; MSgt. Michael Farris, USAF; AIC LuCelia Nagel, USAF; LCpl. Rose A. Muth, USMC; SSgt. Mikey Niman, USMC; Lt. Nantida Klaiophas, USN; Spec. Steven J. Schneider, USA; and Mr. Brian Lepley.