The 5th edition of the India-Australia Joint Military Exercise AUSTRAHIND 2026 commenced on October 19, 2026, at the Foreign Training Node in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. The exercise will continue until November 1, 2026, with participation of approximately 120 personnel each from the Indian Army and Australian Army. This follows the fourth edition held at Irwin Barracks, Perth, Australia from October 13-26, 2025.
The Indian Army contingent consists of troops from the Garhwal Rifles along with personnel from other arms and services, while the Australian contingent comprises troops from 13 Brigade. The exercise is conducted under the theme "Joint Sub-Conventional Operations in Island and Coastal Environment under Chapter VII of the UN Mandate" and aims to enhance interoperability, jointmanship, and operational coordination between the two armies.
During the exercise, troops will undertake joint planning, tactical drills, and combat-oriented training in realistic operational conditions including aerial and maritime dimensions. The training focuses on coordinated operations in coastal and island environments, surveillance and reconnaissance, protection of vital installations, and response to Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief contingencies. For the first time, an observer delegation from New Zealand will participate in the exercise.
The exercise reinforces military-to-military cooperation, interoperability, and mutual trust between India and Australia, strengthening their shared commitment towards peace, stability, and security in the Indo-Pacific region.