India, Australia begins AUSTRAHIND 2026, focus on coastal warfare and joint operations

Thiruvananthapuram: India and Australia began with the fifth edition of their joint military exercise, AUSTRAHIND 2026, on October 19 at the Foreign Training Node in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. Running until November 1, the exercise will focus on coordinated operations in coastal and island environments, strengthening the two armies’ ability to operate together in complex terrain.

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Approximately 120 personnels each from the Indian and Australian armies are participating. India’s contingent includes troops from the Garhwal Rifles and other arms and services, while Australia is represented by personnel from its 13th Brigade. The exercise followed the fourth edition held in Perth in October 2025.

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Conducted under the theme “Joint Sub-Conventional Operations in Island and Coastal Environment under Chapter VII of the UN Mandate,” the drills will include joint planning, tactical manoeuvres and combat-oriented training under realistic conditions. Training covers surveillance and reconnaissance, protection of vital installations, aerial and maritime dimensions, and humanitarian assistance and disaster relief.

A notable addition this year is the participation of a New Zealand observer delegation, providing a wider regional dimension to the exercise. The primary objective, however, remains improving India–Australia military interoperability, shared procedures and operational coordination.

AUSTRAHIND will strengthen practical cooperation between the two armies in littoral environments, complementing broader India–Australia defence engagement across maritime security and regional stability. The exercise is a training initiative, not an announced operational deployment or new defence procurement agreement.

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