The 3rd edition of the joint military exercise AUSTRAHIND commenced today at the Foreign Training Node in Pune, Maharashtra, marking a significant step forward in the military collaboration between India and Australia. Running from November 8 to 21, 2024, this annual exercise alternates between the two nations, with the last edition held in Australia in December 2023.
The Indian contingent, comprising 140 personnel, is primarily represented by a battalion from the DOGRA Regiment, with 14 additional personnel from the Indian Air Force. The Australian Army is contributing 120 personnel, led by the 13th Light Horse Regiment of the 10th Brigade, 2nd Division.
The primary objective of Exercise AUSTRAHIND is to enhance military cooperation and interoperability between the two nations, focusing on joint sub-conventional operations in semi-urban environments and semi-desert terrain, in line with Chapter VII of the United Nations mandate. The exercise aims to improve physical fitness, joint planning, and tactical drills, strengthening the operational capability of both forces in counter-terrorism and counter-insurgency missions.
The exercise is divided into two phases: the combat conditioning and tactical training phase, followed by the validation phase. Key drills include responding to terrorist actions, capturing territory, establishing a Joint Operations Centre, conducting counter-terrorism operations such as Raid and Search-and-Destroy missions, securing helipads, and utilizing drones and counter-drone technologies. Special Heli-Borne Operations will also be featured.
Through these drills, Exercise AUSTRAHIND will foster closer ties between the Indian and Australian armed forces, allowing both sides to exchange best practices in tactics, techniques, and procedures for conducting tactical operations. Additionally, the exercise is expected to promote camaraderie and mutual understanding between the soldiers of the two countries.
Meansile, on November 7, 2024, President Droupadi Murmu experienced an extensive operational demonstration by the Indian Navy, marking her first visit to Navy ships at sea. President Murmu was welcomed at the INS Hansa Naval Air Station in Goa, where she was received with full honors by Admiral Dinesh K Tripathi, Chief of the Naval Staff, and Vice Admiral Sanjay J Singh, Flag Officer Commanding-in-Chief of the Western Naval Command. Her arrival was met with a ceremonial Guard of Honour comprising 150 Navy personnel.
From there, the President embarked on the indigenous aircraft carrier INS Vikrant, which was deployed in the waters off Goa alongside 15 frontline warships and submarines, symbolizing the strength and versatility of the Indian Navy. Onboard INS Vikrant, she was briefed on the Navy’s operational capabilities, its strategic role in national security, and the objectives that guide its various missions.
President Murmu observed a range of impressive naval operations, showcasing the Navy’s combat readiness and technological prowess. Highlights included deck-based fighter jet take-offs and landings, live missile-firing drills from a warship, submarine maneuvers, and an aerial flypast featuring over 30 aircraft. The event culminated in a traditional steam-past by the assembled warships, a naval display of unity and discipline that underscored the Navy’s formidable presence at sea.
During her visit, President Murmu also engaged with the crew of INS Vikrant over lunch, showing her appreciation for their service and commitment to safeguarding the nation. Following this interaction, she addressed the fleet in a speech broadcast to all Navy units at sea, commending the dedication of personnel and reaffirming the nation’s pride in their capabilities.
The President’s visit to INS Vikrant and the demonstrations she witnessed reflect the Indian Navy’s readiness to handle multi-dimensional threats and protect India’s maritime interests.
