New Delhi, February 20: Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi recently engaged in discussions with senior commanders of the Australian Army in Sydney. The talks focused on military preparedness, new training methods, and future challenges.
A significant emphasis was placed on the upcoming joint military exercise ‘Austrahind’, scheduled to take place in India in 2026. This edition is expected to be more extensive and effective than previous iterations, marking a new chapter in India-Australia relations.
General Dwivedi’s visit to Australia from February 16 to 19, 2026, was not limited to formal meetings. It strengthened strategic understanding and mutual trust. He met with senior officials of the Australian Defence Forces, discussing ongoing joint military exercises, military education exchanges, and operational cooperation in detail.
Notably, both nations’ armies expressed their commitment to enhancing the effectiveness of their joint exercises. In Sydney, General Dwivedi interacted with officials from the Forces Command, Special Operations Command, and the Australian Army’s Second Division. They deliberated on military preparation, training methods, and operational strategies. A formal guard of honor was presented to him in Canberra, where he also met with Australian Army Chief Lieutenant General Simon Stuart.
Interestingly, both officials were classmates at the U.S. Army War College in 2015. During their meeting, they emphasized deepening institutional cooperation. A crucial meeting at the Australian Defence Headquarters also addressed army modernization, new technologies, and the future landscape of warfare.
General Dwivedi addressed officers at the Australian Command and Staff College, highlighting the need for unity, leadership, and multinational cooperation in the evolving security environment. During his visit, he also met with the head of the Australian Defence Force and the Secretary of the Department of Defence, gaining insights into Australia’s multidimensional military structure and joint operational systems at the Joint Operations Command Headquarters.
He paid tribute to fallen soldiers at the Australian War Memorial and connected with Indian Defense veterans residing in Australia, reinforcing ties. Defense experts believe that General Dwivedi’s visit has revitalized India-Australia defense relations, enhancing mutual trust and strengthening the shared commitment to peace and stability in the Indo-Pacific region.