The Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) and the Australian Defence Force (ADF) have completed a joint training in Port Moresby, strengthening capability, interoperability, and cooperation under the PNG-Australia alliance.

The activity brought together the 1st Royal Pacific Islands Regiment (1RPIR) and the ADF’s visiting 2nd Cavalry Regiment.

Soldiers trained using the up armoured Land Cruisers gifted to the PNGDF by Australia in late 2025.

The exercise tested skills developed during earlier training activities this year.

In a realistic scenario, personnel conducted a convoy escort mission and responded to a simulated attack using the up-armoured vehicles.

The training also helps the PNGDF further develop their motorized infantry capabilities ahead of the Papua New Guinea component of Exercise Wantok Warrior in October.

Commanding Officer of 1st Battalion, Royal Pacific Islands Regiment, Lieutenant Colonel Eddie Jarope, said the activity demonstrated the progress PNGDF is making in developing new capabilities.

“Today’s activity demonstrates the progress 1RPIR is making towards developing a credible motorized infantry capability,” LTCOL Jarope said.

“The Up Armoured SUV is not simply a vehicle. It is a capability that, when integrated with our infantry, will enhance our mobility, flexibility and ability to operate across challenging terrain.”

“The training is an important step towards validating that capability.”

Meanwhile, Officer Commanding the visiting ADF team, Major Ben Sheppard, said the activity reflected the value of the long-standing partnership between the PNGDF and ADF.

“Today's training was really encouraging. We saw weeks of training with Charlie Company, 1RPIR, come together to ensure a tactical task was executed to a great standard,” MAJ Sheppard said.

“What was equally pleasing was the integration of the Up Armoured SUV, which demonstrates that the capability is maturing towards operational employment.”

“The work of the Mobile Training Team reflects, at the tactical level, the implementation of Australia and PNG's growing strategic partnership and alliance framework.”

“It has been a privilege to work alongside PNGDF soldiers and contribute to their ongoing capability development.”

The activity highlights the PNG-Australia Defence Alliance in action, supporting a capable, professional and modern PNGDF while strengthening the enduring alliance between the two countries.