The third edition of the India-Australia joint military exercise, AUSTRAHIND, is currently taking place at the Foreign Training Node in Pune, Maharashtra, from November 8 to 21. This annual event aims to enhance military coordination and operational efficiency between the two nations’ armed forces, with a focus on sub-conventional operations in semi-urban and semi-desert terrains.
AUSTRAHIND, which started in 2022, alternates between India and Australia. This year, about 140 Indian personnel, including members of the DOGRA Regiment and the Indian Air Force, are joined by 120 Australian soldiers from the 13th Light Horse Regiment of the 10th Brigade.
The exercise is divided into two phases: initial combat conditioning and tactical training, followed by a validation phase. Key activities include counter-terrorism strategies, the establishment of a Joint Operations Centre, search-and-destroy missions, securing helipads, and the use of drones and counter-drone tactics. Special Heli-Borne Operations are also being conducted to enhance both nations’ operational capabilities.
AUSTRAHIND plays a vital role in strengthening the India-Australia military relationship. It fosters teamwork through martial arts training, joint planning, and combat medical exercises, all aimed at preparing forces for real-world combat scenarios.
This exercise comes amidst growing concerns over regional security, including terrorism and maritime threats. Both nations view their collaboration as essential to ensuring stability in the Indo-Pacific region. Additionally, India and Australia engage in other defense initiatives such as the AUSINDEX maritime and PITCHBLACK air force exercises. India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar’s recent visit to Australia highlights the commitment to deepening bilateral relations across various sectors.
