5TH EDITION OF INDIA-AUSTRALIA JOINT MILITARY EXERCISE AUSTRAHIND COMMENCES AT THIRUVANANTHAPURAM

The 5th edition of the India-Australia Joint Military Exercise AUSTRAHIND 2026 commenced at the Foreign Training Node in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. Scheduled from 19 October to 01 November 2026, the exercise involves approximately 120 personnel each from the Indian Army and the Australian Army. The training focuses on the theme of "Joint Sub-Conventional Operations in Island and Coastal Environment under Chapter VII of the UN Mandate". It aims to enhance interoperability, jointmanship, tactical coordination, and mutual trust between the two forces, reinforcing their shared commitment to regional stability in the Indo-Pacific. Additionally, an observer delegation from New Zealand is participating for the first time.