India–Australia Joint Military Exercise AUSTRAHIND 2026 Begins in Kerala with 240 Troops, New Zealand Joins as Observer

The fifth edition of Exercise AUSTRAHIND 2026, the bilateral military exercise between the Indian Army and Australian Army, commenced on 19 October 2026 at the Foreign Training Node in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. The exercise will continue until 1 November 2026, bringing together approximately 240 military personnel from both countries.

The exercise focuses on improving joint operational capabilities in island and coastal environments, strengthening tactical coordination and enhancing interoperability between the two armies. For the first time, an observer delegation from New Zealand will also participate, adding a new dimension to the military engagement.

Garhwal Rifles and Australian 13 Brigade Participate

The Indian Army contingent comprises approximately 120 personnel, primarily drawn from the Garhwal Rifles, supported by troops from other arms and services.

Australia has deployed a contingent of approximately 120 personnel from its 13 Brigade, a formation of the Australian Army.

The participating troops will train together to develop a common understanding of operational procedures, tactical planning and coordinated responses to security challenges.

The previous edition of Exercise AUSTRAHIND was conducted at Irwin Barracks in Perth, Australia, from 13 to 26 October 2025. The alternating venues provide opportunities for both armies to gain experience operating in different training environments.

Joint Military Operations in Island and Coastal Environments

Exercise AUSTRAHIND 2026 is being conducted under the theme “Joint Sub-Conventional Operations in Island and Coastal Environment under Chapter VII of the UN Mandate.”

The training programme focuses on military operations in coastal and island terrain, where geographical conditions and operational requirements demand close coordination between different military elements.

Participating troops will undertake joint mission planning, tactical drills and combat-oriented exercises under realistic operational conditions. The training will incorporate aerial and maritime dimensions to improve coordination across different operational environments.

The exercise aims to develop common tactics, techniques and procedures that can support effective joint military operations.

Surveillance, Reconnaissance and Protection of Vital Installations

An important component of AUSTRAHIND 2026 involves developing operational capabilities for surveillance, reconnaissance and the protection of strategically important installations.

The participating forces will practise coordinated operations designed to improve situational awareness, information sharing and tactical responses in coastal environments.

Training will also cover the security of vital infrastructure and coordinated military responses to emerging operational challenges.

These activities provide opportunities for Indian and Australian troops to exchange professional experience, refine operational procedures and strengthen cooperation at the tactical level.

Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief Training

The exercise will also include Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations, reflecting the importance of military cooperation during natural disasters and humanitarian emergencies.

Island and coastal regions frequently face challenges arising from cyclones, flooding and other extreme weather events. Effective disaster response requires coordination, rapid mobilisation and the ability to operate in difficult geographical conditions.

Through joint training, both armies will improve their understanding of coordinated humanitarian operations and disaster response procedures.

The exchange of operational experience will support better preparedness for emergency situations requiring cooperation between military forces.

New Zealand Participates as Observer for the First Time

A significant development in the fifth edition is the participation of an observer delegation from New Zealand, marking its first involvement in Exercise AUSTRAHIND.

The delegation will observe the joint training activities conducted by Indian and Australian troops, providing an additional opportunity for professional military engagement.

New Zealand’s observer participation broadens the exercise’s international engagement while retaining its primary bilateral character between India and Australia.

The development also reflects the growing importance of professional exchanges and operational understanding among military forces operating in the Indo-Pacific region.

Strengthening India–Australia Defence Cooperation

Exercise AUSTRAHIND forms part of the expanding defence relationship between India and Australia, particularly in military training, interoperability and operational coordination.

The exercise allows both armies to familiarise themselves with each other’s tactical procedures, improve communication and develop greater confidence in conducting coordinated operations.

Its emphasis on coastal and island environments is especially relevant to the Indo-Pacific, where maritime security, disaster response and the protection of critical infrastructure remain important regional priorities.

By combining realistic field training, professional exchanges and joint operational planning, AUSTRAHIND 2026 will strengthen military-to-military cooperation and reinforce the India–Australia commitment to peace, stability and security across the Indo-Pacific.

---

References

1. Press Information Bureau, Ministry of Defence, Government of India — 5th Edition of India-Australia Joint Military Exercise AUSTRAHIND Commences at Thiruvananthapuram, 19 October 2026.
   https://www.pib.gov.in/PressReleseDetailm.aspx?PRID=2325246
2. Ministry of Defence, Government of India — Official announcements and updates on bilateral military exercises.
   https://mod.gov.in/

---