Indian and Australian Army personnel are participating in intensive joint military drills in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, as part of Exercise AUSTRAHIND 2026. The training focuses on operations across jungle, island, and coastal environments, with the broader objective of improving combat preparedness, coordination, and cooperation between the two countries.
According to the Indian Army, the exercise includes counterinsurgency and counterterrorism scenarios, combat swimming, and drone operations. These activities are designed to help troops develop compatible tactics and procedures while building mutual confidence and strengthening the two nations’ longstanding defense relationship.
The fifth edition of the bilateral exercise began on October 19 at the Foreign Training Node in Thiruvananthapuram and is scheduled to conclude on November 1. Approximately 120 personnel from each army are participating. India’s contingent includes soldiers from the Garhwal Rifles and members of other military arms and services, while Australia is represented by troops from its 13th Brigade. In a first for the exercise, a New Zealand observer delegation has also joined the proceedings.
This year’s theme centers on joint sub-conventional operations in island and coastal settings under Chapter VII of the United Nations Charter. The program aims to improve interoperability, coordinated action, and a shared understanding of operational methods in challenging terrain.
The previous edition took place at Irwin Barracks in Perth, Australia, from October 13 to 26, 2025. The Indian Ministry of Defence expects the 2026 exercise to deepen military cooperation and reinforce both countries’ shared commitment to peace, stability, and security across the Indo-Pacific region.
