Our Bureau
Pune
The third edition of the India-Australia joint military exercise, AUSTRAHIND, is currently underway at the Foreign Training Node in Pune, Maharashtra, from November 8 to 21. This annual event aims to enhance military cooperation and interoperability between the armed forces of both nations, focusing on sub-conventional operations in semi-urban and semi-desert environments.
AUSTRAHIND, which began in 2022, alternates between India and Australia. This year’s exercise involves approximately 140 Indian personnel, primarily from the DOGRA Regiment and the Indian Air Force, alongside 120 Australian soldiers from the 13th Light Horse Regiment of the 10th Brigade.
The training is structured in two phases: a combat conditioning and tactical training phase followed by a validation phase. Key drills include counter-terrorism tactics, establishing a Joint Operations Centre, search and destroy missions, securing helipads, and employing drones and counter-drone measures. Special Heli-Borne Operations are also part of the agenda, allowing both nations to refine their operational capabilities.
AUSTRAHIND not only improves tactical coordination but also strengthens the long-standing military partnership between India and Australia. The participants are engaging in various activities such as martial arts training, joint tactical planning, and combat medical training to enhance their readiness for real-world scenarios.
The backdrop of AUSTRAHIND includes a growing concern over regional security challenges such as terrorism and maritime threats. Both nations recognize that their collaboration is crucial for promoting stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
In addition to AUSTRAHIND, India and Australia engage in various defense initiatives, including the AUSINDEX maritime exercise and PITCHBLACK air force exercise. The recent visit of India’s External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar to Australia further underscores the commitment to strengthening bilateral relations across multiple fronts.
