Exercise 'Austra Hind-22' aims to increase collaboration between the two armies

An Australian Army contingent has arrived in Rajasthan to participate in the bilateral training exercise 'Austra Hind 22' with an Indian Army contingent.

The Australian contingent is made up of members of the 2nd Division's 13th Brigade while the Dogra Regiment soldiers will represent the Indian Army.

The bilateral training exercise is scheduled to take place at Mahajan Field Firing Ranges (Rajasthan) from November 28 to 11 December 11, India's Ministry of Defence said on Sunday.

With participation of all arms and service from contingent from both the armies, this is the first exercise in the series 'Austra Hind'. The exercise will be an annual event that alternates between Australia and India.

The exercise's goals are to improve military relationships, share best practices, and foster cooperation while conducting multi-domain operations in semi-desert terrain in support of a UN peace enforcement mission.

Through this combined exercise, the two armies will be able to exchange best practises in tactical operations at the company and platoon levels to neutralise hostile threats.

Training on next-generation equipment and specialised weaponry, such as snipers, surveillance, and communication equipment, is also planned at the battalion or company level, in addition to casualty management, casualty evacuation, and logistical planning.

The exercise will involve a range of activities, from cooperative planning to cooperative tactical drills, sharing the fundamentals of special weapons proficiency, and raiding an enemy target. Along with improving communication and cooperation between the two militaries, the combined training will also help cement relations between Australia and India.