The 5th edition of the India-Australia Joint Military Exercise AUSTRAHIND 2026 commenced on 19 October 2026 at the Foreign Training Node in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala. Around 120 personnel each from the Indian Army and the Australian Army are participating in the exercise, which will continue until 1 November 2026.
- Participating Countries: India and Australia.
- Indian Army Contingent: Troops from the Garhwal Rifles and other arms and services.
- Australian Army Contingent: Troops from the 13 Brigade.
- First-time Participation: An observer delegation from New Zealand.
- Theme: “Joint Sub-Conventional Operations in Island and Coastal Environment under Chapter VII of the UN Mandate”.
- Main Objectives: To enhance interoperability, jointmanship and operational coordination between the two armies.
- Training Focus: Joint planning, tactical drills, combat training, surveillance and reconnaissance, protection of vital installations, and Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief (HADR) operations.
- Previous Edition: The 4th edition was held at Irwin Barracks in Perth, Australia, from 13 to 26 October 2025.
The exercise aims to strengthen military cooperation, mutual trust and coordination between India and Australia, particularly in island and coastal environments, and promote peace, stability and security in the Indo-Pacific region.
