India and Australia Launch Joint Military Exercise ‘Austrahind’ in Pune
The Indian and Australian military forces commenced the “Austrahind” exercise in Pune on November 8, 2024. This third iteration highlights historical military cooperation, focusing on enhanced interoperability in multi-domain operations. The exercise includes 255 soldiers from both nations, aimed at strengthening military relations and addressing contemporary security challenges in the Indo-Pacific region.
On November 8, 2024, the Indian and Australian militaries commenced the third iteration of their joint military exercise, “Austrahind,” in Pune, India. This exercise emphasizes the historical military cooperation between the two nations, particularly during the World Wars, and their current strategic alignment in addressing common threats in the Indo-Pacific region. The exercise will improve interoperability in multi-domain operations and enhance defense collaboration through joint tactics, techniques, and procedures. With a total of 255 soldiers and officers from both contingents participating, the exercise is slated to occur from November 8 to 21 at the Foreign Training Node of the Aundh Military Station. The inaugural “Austrahind” exercise was founded in 2022, with the first iteration taking place in Rajasthan and the second in Perth, Australia. Intended as an annual training event alternating between the two countries, this third iteration incorporates troops from the 13th Brigade of the Australian Army and the Indian 72 Infantry Brigade, including Garud Commandos of the Indian Air Force. Major focus areas include combined operations under United Nations mandates and sharing best practices with a keen emphasis on maintaining physical fitness and conducting tactical drills. Brigadier Sanjeev Saharan, commander of the Indian contingent, reflected on the historical ties between the two nations, stating, “Our nations share a proud history of cooperation, dating back to the First and Second World Wars when Indian and Australian soldiers stood shoulder to shoulder on the battlefield far from their homelands.” Brigadier Amanda Williamson, the commander of the Australian contingent, underscored the importance of this exercise amidst current global uncertainties, emphasizing the critical role both nations play as large democracies in ensuring a stable and inclusive Indo-Pacific region. The “Austrahind” exercise consists of two phases: combat conditioning and tactical training, followed by a validation phase. Key components to be practiced include responses to terrorism, conducting joint counter-terrorism operations, employing drones, and coordinating heli-borne operations. Notably, there is an anticipated opportunity to bond over the shared sporting enthusiasm for cricket, a point raised by Brigadier Williamson, who expressed hope for friendly cricket matches during the exercise period.
The “Austrahind” military exercise symbolizes the evolving defense partnership between India and Australia. Established following the mutual recognition of shared security interests, particularly in the Indo-Pacific realm, this annual exercise addresses historical military collaborations during the World Wars while responding to contemporary threats such as terrorism and maritime security. It aims to enhance military interoperability and cooperative skills in joint operations, reflecting a commitment to global peace and stability.
The commencement of the “Austrahind” exercise illustrates the strengthening military collaboration between India and Australia, rooted in historical ties and a mutual commitment to counter common regional threats. With a focus on interoperability in multi-domain operations and joint tactical training, this event underscores both nations’ dedication to fostering defense relations and enhancing global stability in the Indo-Pacific region.
Original Source: indianexpress.com
