The 3rd edition of Exercise Austrahind, a joint military drill between India and Australia, commenced on Friday at the Foreign Training Node in Pune, Maharashtra. The exercise, scheduled from November 8 to 21, is held annually, alternating between the two nations. The previous edition took place in December 2023 in Australia.
This year, India’s contingent includes 140 personnel, primarily from the Dogra Regiment, alongside 14 members from the Indian Air Force. Australia’s contingent of 120 personnel is represented by the 13th Light Horse Regiment of the 10th Brigade, 2nd Division.
Objectives and Structure of Austrahind 2024
Exercise Austrahind aims to strengthen military ties and interoperability between India and Australia, specifically in joint sub-conventional operations in semi-urban and semi-desert terrains under Chapter VII of the United Nations mandate. The exercise is structured into two phases:
- Combat Conditioning and Tactical Training Phase: Focusing on physical fitness, joint planning, and tactical drills.
- Validation Phase: Testing tactical responses in scenarios, including joint counter-terrorism operations.
Key exercises include establishing a Joint Operations Centre, executing Raid and Search and Destroy missions, securing a helipad, and deploying drones with counter-drone tactics. Special Heli-Borne Operations will also be practiced.
Austrahind 2024 not only emphasizes tactical skill-sharing but also fosters camaraderie between Indian and Australian soldiers. By exchanging best practices in operational tactics, both armies aim to enhance collaboration in regional and global peacekeeping initiatives.
