"Cobra Gold 2012 " is on track. More than 13 000 soldiers, including troops from the United States, Thailand, South Korea, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore and Japan are currently participating in war games in Thailand.

The 10-day exercise takes place every year, but since it was started in 1982, this is the most important. Indeed, South Korea joined the endeavor by contributing, in particular, its amphibious landing vehicles.

The troops followed a series of training drills simulating "humanitarian projects" and civil assistance scenarios.

This edition of Cobra Gold is the first since Washington announced last year a re-engagement strategy in Southeast Asia.

The U.S. has also announced it would maintain its military bases in Japan and South Korea while increasing its presence in Australia, Singapore and the Philippines.

After its costly wars in Afghanistan, Iraq and Libya, it appear that the U.S. is looking increasingly to Asia Southeast for new allies.