Photo By Staff Sgt. Alec Dionne | U.S. Army Sgt. 1st Class Paul Deveny with Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 96th...... read more read more
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CHONBURI, THAILAND — April 22, 2026 The Washington National Guard and the Royal Thai Army (RTA) continue to deepen their partnership during a landmark Stryker Maintenance Subject Matter Expert Exchange (SMEE) held at the RTA’s maintenance facilities near Chonburi, Thailand. This ongoing partnership is a continuity of last year's exchange, which was then conducted outside the United States for the first time.
Traditionally hosted at the Maneuver Area Training Equipment Site (MATES) in Yakima, Washington, the SMEE provides real world knowledge-sharing on the upkeep of Stryker vehicles. By bringing the exchange to Thailand, the RTA can share real world battlefield experience with U.S. maintainers in exchange for expert advice on Stryker sustainment.
The exchange is part of the State Partnership Program (SPP), which has linked the Washington National Guard and the RTA for more than two decades. SPP allows Thai and U.S. service members to collaborate on training, share expertise, and build enduring relationships that enhance regional security.
Taking lessons learned from recent operations, the RTA is integrating riflemen and other non-mechanic soldiers into the engagement. Together with RTA mechanics, they learn to fix engines, replace tires, repair weapons mounting systems, manage parts attrition, and draft maintenance schedules.
“It is great to have guys in here who would not otherwise work on vehicles,” said Sgt. 1st Class Paul Deveny, with Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 96th Troop Command, Washington National Guard. Deveny explained that this will allow for a generally high level of care for, and proficiency with, the once Washington State Strykers, now in RTA hands.
During the exchange, Guard experts demonstrated troubleshooting techniques, repair procedures, and preventative maintenance practices. RTA soldiers gained valuable technical insights while sharing their own experiences, creating a two-way learning environment.
The success of the Stryker Maintenance SMEE highlights the enduring strength of the Washington National Guard–RTA partnership. By expanding learning opportunities beyond U.S. soil, both forces enhance their readiness and reinforce their commitment to regional stability.
As the relationship continues to evolve, the Stryker Maintenance SMEE stands as a cornerstone of military-to-military cooperation between the United States and the Kingdom of Thailand.
| Date Taken: | 04.21.2026 |
| Date Posted: | 04.29.2026 08:56 |
| Story ID: | 563305 |
| Location: | CHON BURI, TH |
| Web Views: | 21 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
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