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Pacific partners have once again teamed up, with the Australian Defence Force to provide defensive and interoperable benefits for multiple nations.
The Kumul Exchange recently saw three members of the Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) spend two weeks learning and developing practical skills for humanitarian response missions with No. 35 Squadron at RAAF Base Amberley.
Sergeant Sato Gorosahu from the PNGDF said the exchange program was a “great” experience to be a part of.
“I learnt a lot about the RAAF’s logistics processes and the way RAAF does things,” Sergeant Gorosahu said.
“35 Squadron are friendly and were really helpful, teaching me how the systems relate here [in Australia], how purchasing is completed and how each of the logistics sections operate.
“I have developed an understanding that I can take back to the PNGDF.”
Programs like these allow for Australia to continue efforts in maintaining peace and effective collaboration with regional partners to ensure continued security and interoperability in the Indo-Pacific region.
“These exchanges will lead to greater cooperation under the Defence Pacific Air Program by strengthening technical interoperability, building trust between PNGDF and RAAF personnel, and aligning maintenance and logistics practices,” said No. 35 Squadron Logistics Officer Flight Lieutenant Elizabeth Weston.
“Beyond technical skills, these exchanges build long-term relationships, create future liaison pathways and promote shared standards that make combined operations more efficient.”
The annual exchange teaches not just the theory behind the skills needed for quick and effective defence responses to national challenges but allows for PNGDF members to gain hands-on experience of what to expect in real situations.
“In terms of being exposed to a different workspace in a different country, it sort of gives a different perspective in the way things are done in the aviation industry, especially in the Air Force,” said PNGDF maintainer Corporal Joshua Magun.
PNGDF maintainer Sergeant Wesley Tait further cemented this point, saying the program offered “good exposure to flight line duties, safety while on heights and seeing different types of stands for different heights and jobs”.
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