Thiruvananthapuram [Keralam]: Australian High Commissioner to India Philip Green commended the ongoing India-Australia joint military exercise AUSTRAHIND 2026 during his visit to the training site in Thiruvananthapuram, Keralam. He highlighted India’s growing importance as a security partner and called for closer defence cooperation to address emerging multi-domain security challenges and support a free and open Indo-Pacific.
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Green stressed that closer links between the Indian and Australian armies are becoming increasingly important as the two countries deepen their strategic partnership. He also underlined the strategic significance of the eastern Indian Ocean in connecting the two nations, describing joint exercises as an important means of building trust and improving military interoperability.
The fifth edition of AUSTRAHIND began on October 19 and continues until November 1, with approximately 120 personnel each from the Indian Army and Australian Army participating. India’s contingent included troops from the Garhwal Rifles and other arms and services, while Australia is represented by personnel from its 13th Brigade.
The exercise focuses on joint sub-conventional operations in island and coastal environments. Training activities include tactical planning, combat drills, surveillance and reconnaissance, protection of vital installations, combat swimming and drone manoeuvring, alongside preparations for humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations.
For the first time, an observer delegation from New Zealand is also participating in AUSTRAHIND. The exercise aimed to improve operational coordination and develop a shared understanding of tactics and procedures, reinforcing India-Australia defence cooperation and their commitment to regional stability in the Indo-Pacific.
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