India-Australia AUSTRAHIND V Military Exercise Ends in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala

Thiruvananthapuram: The fifth edition of the India-Australia joint military exercise, AUSTRAHIND V, concluded in Thiruvananthapuram, Kerala, on November 1, 2026, after a 14-day drill that brought together about 120 personnel from the Indian Army and the Australian Army. The exercise focused on building joint operational capability, improving interoperability and sharpening preparedness for operations in island and coastal environments.

The concluding phase of the exercise marked the latest step in a bilateral training series that has become an important part of defence engagement between India and Australia. During the drill, troops from both countries trained together, exchanged operational experience and familiarised themselves with each other’s procedures and practices. A major part of the training was centred on coordinated responses to challenges in coastal and island terrain, which carry strategic importance in the Indo-Pacific region.

Throughout AUSTRAHIND V, the participating contingents worked to improve jointmanship, operational coordination and mutual understanding. The training also highlighted the need for seamless communication and cooperation in combined military operations, where coordination between forces can be critical to mission success.

Senior civil and military dignitaries witnessed the exercise, including the Australian High Commissioner to India. The High Commissioner appreciated the professionalism, dedication and commitment shown by both contingents during the exercise.

The successful conduct of the exercise was supported by several military, civilian and government organisations. The Vizhinjam Port Authority, Indian Navy, State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), Kerala Police and other agencies coordinated closely to provide logistical support and help facilitate the training.

The involvement of these agencies underscored the importance of inter-agency cooperation in mounting complex military exercises, especially those conducted in coastal areas where multiple operational stakeholders have to work together.

The AUSTRAHIND series has become a key element of the expanding defence relationship between India and Australia. It offers both armies a platform to strengthen professional military ties, share operational knowledge and build greater interoperability.

India and Australia share an interest in peace, stability and security in the Indo-Pacific, and joint exercises such as AUSTRAHIND are intended to improve their ability to operate together in support of that objective. The latest edition of the exercise concluded on a positive note, reflecting growing trust, mutual respect and professional camaraderie between the two armies.

The successful culmination of AUSTRAHIND V reaffirmed the India-Australia defence partnership and the two countries’ commitment to military cooperation, operational readiness and regional security.