The fifth edition of the India-Australia Joint Military Exercise AUSTRAHIND 2026 commenced today at the Foreign Training Node in Keralam. The exercise will continue till the first of next month. The theme of the exercise is “Joint Sub-Conventional Operations in Island and Coastal Environment under Chapter Seven of the UN Mandate.’’

 

The Ministry of Defence said that approximately 1 hundred 20 personnel each from the Indian Army and the Australian Army are participating in the exercise. The Indian contingent comprises troops from the Garhwal Rifles, along with personnel from other arms and services, while the Australian contingent includes troops from the 13th Brigade. During the exercise, troops from both armies will undertake joint planning, tactical drills and combat-oriented training under realistic operational conditions, including aerial and maritime dimensions. The exercise aims to further strengthen military cooperation, interoperability and mutual trust between India and Australia.