India and Australia began the 5th edition of Exercise AUSTRAHIND 2026 at the Foreign Training Node in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala.
Scheduled from 19 October to 01 November 2026, the training will bring together around 120 soldiers from each army. The previous edition was hosted at Irwin Barracks in Perth, Australia, between 13 and 26 October 2025.
India's contingent includes Garhwal Rifles personnel as well as members of other branches of the Army. Australia's troops are drawn from 13 Brigade.
Both armies will train for sub-conventional operations in coastal and island locations under Chapter VII of the UN mandate. The programme seeks to improve coordination, the ability to operate jointly and shared understanding of operational methods and tactics.
Participants will undertake joint planning and practical tactical training that reflects operational conditions at sea and in the air. Activities will cover surveillance, reconnaissance, protection of important facilities and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief. The armies will also exchange professional experiences. For the first time, observers from New Zealand will attend.
AUSTRAHIND 2026 is intended to strengthen military cooperation and mutual confidence between India and Australia while supporting their common interest in a stable and secure Indo-Pacific.
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