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The Australian Defence Force will begin a multinational effort for the removal of World War II explosives in the Pacific.
As a part of Operation Render Safe, the ADF will lead engineers and defence personnel from Canada, France, Japan, New Zealand, the United Kingdom and the United States to dispose of explosive remnants of war (ERW).
Focusing on ERW left in Gazelle, Kokopo and Rabaul, the Papua New Guinea Defence Force will be actively and directly involved to safely reduce the continued threat that aged explosives pose to local communities and areas.
The 20-day operation will begin from 1 June and is expected to strengthen multinational defence efforts and provide advantageous outcomes for Pacific allies.
“The ADF has worked with Pacific partners to support explosive ordnance disposal under Operation Render Safe for more than 20 years,” Chief of Joint Operations, Vice Admiral Justin Jones said.
“During these operations, we work side by side with our regional partners and local authorities to conduct safe and deliberate identification and disposal of explosive ordnance, removing the danger these pose to communities.
“Working together on Pacific-led solutions to Pacific challenges strengthens our combined security capabilities and contributes to maintaining a peaceful, stable and resilient region.”
Separately, two Royal Australian Navy Huon Class Minehunters (HMAS Yarra and HMAS Diamantina) and the Pacific Support Vessel ADV Reliant will be deployed to Tuvalu in July.
These vessels will be used to conduct technical reconnaissance in the Nanumea Lagoon, as requested by the Tuvalu government.
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