India-Australia AUSTRAHIND Military Exercise

The third edition of the India-Australia joint military exercise, AUSTRAHIND, kicked off on 8th November in Pune, aiming to enhance defence collaboration and interoperability between the two countries' armed forces.

AUSTRAHIND, an annual event that started in 2022, alternates between India and Australia, with this year's edition focused on sub-conventional warfare in semi-urban and semi-desert environments under a UN mandate.
The Indian forces include 140 personnel from the DOGRA Regiment and the Indian Air Force, while Australia is represented by 120 soldiers from the 13th Light Horse Regiment.
The exercise will unfold in two phases: an initial phase on combat conditioning and tactical drills, followed by a validation phase assessing joint effectiveness.
Key drills involve counter-terrorism tactics, Joint Operations Centre management, search-and-destroy missions, helipad security, and drone and counter-drone strategies, enhancing joint tactical and operational capabilities.
Special Heli-Borne Operations are planned, promoting the exchange of specialized techniques and practical knowledge between the Indian and Australian forces.