AUSTRAHIND 2026: 5th India-Australia army exercise in Thiruvananthapuram
Why in the news
The fifth edition of AUSTRAHIND, the joint military exercise between the Indian Army and the Australian Army, began at the Foreign Training Node in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. It runs from 19 October to 1 November 2026.
Key facts
- Edition: 5th; duration about two weeks.
- Strength: about 240 personnel, roughly 120 from each side.
- Theme: joint sub-conventional operations in island and coastal environment under Chapter VII of the UN mandate.
- First: a New Zealand observer delegation is participating for the first time.
- Training: joint planning, tactical drills, surveillance and reconnaissance, protection of vital installations and HADR, with aerial and maritime dimensions.
- Aim: better interoperability, jointmanship and shared tactics for island and coastal terrain.
| Item | India | Australia |
|---|---|---|
| Main unit | Garhwal Rifles | 13 Brigade |
| Personnel | About 120 | About 120 |
About AUSTRAHIND
AUSTRAHIND is an army-to-army exercise between India and Australia. The 4th edition was held at Irwin Barracks, Perth, Australia, from 13 to 26 October 2025. The exercise also supports shared goals of peace, stability and security in the Indo-Pacific.
Exam angle
- AUSTRAHIND = India and Australia (army); 2026 venue Thiruvananthapuram.
- New Zealand joined as observer for the first time.
- Indian contingent: Garhwal Rifles.