A joint military exercise between India and Australia begins in the capital

The 5th annual India-Australia joint military exercise AUSTRAHIND 2026 is underway in Thiruvananthapuram, a defense spokesperson said.

Around 120 Indian and Australian military personnel are participating in the exercise, which began on October 19 and will continue until November 1. The fourth edition was held at Irwin Barracks, Perth, Australia, from 13 to 26 October 2025.

The Indian Army contingent includes troops from the Garhwal Rifles along with personnel from other arms and services, while the Australian contingent includes troops from 13 Brigade.

The exercise is aimed at “joint sub-conventional operations in island and coastal environments under Chapter VII of the UN mandate”. “It is aimed at enhancing interoperability, cooperation and operational coordination between the two militaries, while developing a common understanding of tactics, techniques and procedures for operations in island and littoral terrain,” the spokesman said.

During the exercise, units of both armies will undergo joint planning, tactical exercises and combat-oriented training in real operational conditions, including air and sea dimensions. The training will focus on coordinated operations in coastal and island environments, surveillance and reconnaissance, protection of vital facilities and humanitarian and disaster relief (HADR) emergency response, in addition to the exchange of expertise and best practices.

An observer delegation from New Zealand also participates in the first exercise.

“AUSTRAHIND 2026” will further enhance military cooperation, interoperability and mutual trust between India and Australia. It will strengthen their shared commitment to peace, stability and security in the Indo-Pacific region, the spokesman said.

Published – 21 Oct 2026 23:22 IST