The third edition of the joint military exercise AUSTRAHIND kicked off at the Foreign Training Node in Pune, Maharashtra. The exercise, which will run until November 21, 2024, is an annual event aimed at enhancing military cooperation between India and Australia. The exercise alternates between the two countries, with the last edition held in Australia in December 2023.
The Indian contingent, comprising 140 personnel, is primarily represented by a battalion of the DOGRA Regiment and 14 personnel from the Indian Air Force. The Australian Army is participating with a contingent of 120 personnel, led by the 13th Light Horse Regiment of the 10th Brigade, 2nd Division.
The primary objective of AUSTRAHIND is to foster military cooperation between India and Australia by improving interoperability in joint sub-conventional operations in semi-urban environments and semi-desert terrain. The exercise focuses on operations under Chapter VII of the UN mandate, emphasizing the importance of physical fitness, joint planning, and tactical drills.
The exercise will be conducted in two phases: the first phase will involve combat conditioning and tactical training, while the second phase will focus on validation. Key drills to be practiced during the exercise include responding to terrorist actions, capturing defined territories, establishing Joint Operations Centres, conducting joint counter-terrorism operations such as raids, search-and-destroy missions, securing a helipad, employing drones and counter-drone measures, and executing Special Heli-Borne Operations.
AUSTRAHIND offers an opportunity for both Indian and Australian forces to exchange best practices in tactics, techniques, and procedures for conducting complex tactical operations. In addition to improving operational capabilities, the exercise also aims to strengthen the camaraderie and bond between soldiers of both nations.
Through this collaborative training, India and Australia are further solidifying their defence relationship, enhancing their ability to respond to shared security challenges in the region and beyond.
