Australian Defence Force marks 80th anniversary of the landing at Nadzab

Fifteen Australian Army personnel have conducted a parachute demonstration over Nadzab Tomodachi Airport to mark the 80th anniversary of the landing at Nadzab, an Allied operation during World War Two.

Two Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) C-17A Globemaster aircraft are currently flying in PNG skies as part of Exercise Global Dexterity 23-2.

The military exercise will involve up to three C-17A aircraft from the RAAF, United States Air Force and Royal Air Force.

The Australian Defence Force (ADF) said it appreciated the support of the PNG Government, PNG Defence Force and the wider community to allow the RAAF to test their skills in one of the world’s most complex flying environments.

The training achieved in the country during the exercise ensures Australia and its allies can deliver humanitarian assistance anywhere in the Indo-Pacific, the ADF said.

Australian Defence Adviser to PNG, Colonel Travis Gordon, said the exercise would mostly take place in Australia, but would include two missions to PNG.

In addition to Saturday's parachute demonstration from one of the C-17As, all three aircraft will conduct low-level flying training in the areas around Telefomin, Mount Hagen, Simbu, Madang and Manus on Wednesday.

The aircraft will then be loaded with ADF vehicles and equipment used in Exercise Puk Puk for their return flight to Australia.

“During Exercise Puk Puk, the ADF worked closely with the PNG Defence Force Engineer on partnership and capacity building exercises, including refurbishment of facilities and accommodation, drainage, and road repair on Manus Island,” Colonel Gordon said.