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AUSSIE APACHES ROLL OFF ASSEMBLY LINE
USA: The first Australian Army Aviation AH-64Ev6 Apache helo has rolled out of the paintshop in the USA.
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SHIP UNDERWAY RECOVERY EX
SYDNEY HARBOUR: Imagery releases from the Royal Marines and US Naval Special Warfare give a sharper insight into the Sydney Harbour Special Operations exercise.
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RARE US NAVY OHIO CLASS PORT VISIT
BRISBANE: One of the US Navy's top shelf Ohio class nuclear submarines has made an extremely rare public port visit to Australia.
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NUSHIP EYRE EDGES TOWARDS ACCEPTANCE
OSBORNE SA: The second of the Arafura class Offshore Patrol Vessels has completed sea trials moving towards entry into RAN service. Pic Trevor Powell/Facebook
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FIRST AUSSIE PrSM FIRED
MT BUNDEY NT: The Australian Army has successfully launched the cutting edge long range Precision Strike Missile during Ex Talisman Sabre 25.
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USAF BANS F9 VARIANT AFTER FATALITY
USA: The US Air Force has halted the use of its M18 pistol, almost identical to the ADF's new F9 pistol, due to very serious safety concerns.
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TS25 FLY IN FLY OUT FARP EX
EXMOUTH WA: The RAAF has successfully demonstrated its capacity to conduct a remote fly in fly out refuel and rearm of combat aircraft during Talisman Sabre 2025.
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US ARMY SEALIFT OF AUSSIE ABRAMS
TOWNSVILLE: The US Army has sealifted Australian Army M1A2 Abrams for the first time in support of Talisman Sabre 2025.
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BRITS & YANKS FLY AUSSIE F-35As
NORTHERN TERRITORY: Royal Air Force, US Marine Corps and US Air Force F-35 Lightning II senior pilots have flown Australian F-35As as part of Exercise Talisman Sabre 2025.
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TALISMAN SABRES FLAT TOPS & AMPHIBS
TIMOR & CORAL SEAS: Talisman Sabre 2025 has attracted an awesome assembly of aircraft carriers, amphibious assault ships and large amphibs from across the free world.
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INDONESIAN KOPASGUT PARACHUTE INSERTION TS25
SHOALWATER BAY: The Indonesian Air Force Quick Reaction Special Forces have conducted a parachute insertion into Talisman Sabre 2025.
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NZ ARMY DEPLOYS NEW eTUAS TO TS25
SHOALWATER BAY: The New Zealand Army has deployed its brand new Quantum Systems eTUAS to Australia for the first time.
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AUSSIE ABRAMS IN UKRAINE
UKRAINE: The first tranche of retired ex Australian Army M1A1 Abrams Main Battle Tanks have been accepted by the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
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TIGER HARD LANDING IN NT
TIMBER CREEK: A 1st Aviation Regiment EC665 Tiger Armed Reconnaissance Helicopter has been damaged during flying exercises within Exercise Talisman Sabre 25.
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TS25 AVIATION ACTIVITIES
NORTHERN AUSTRALIA: More than 150 aircraft from the Australian Defence Force and six other countries are flying within Exercise Talisman Sabre 25.
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TS25 TYPHON SM6 LAUNCH
NORTHERN TERRITORY: The US Army has live fired its cutting edge Typhon Strategic Mid Range Fires missile system during Talisman Sabre 25.
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1ST USMC DEPLOYMENT OF ACV-P
SHOALWATER BAY QLD: The US Marine Corps has deployed its next generation Amphibious Combat Vehicle - Personnel to Australia for the first time.
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RESERVE CYBER WARFARE SPECIALIST PROGRAM
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Defence Force is aiming to leverage civilian cyber security expertise through a new Cyber Reserve Concept recruitment program.
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KOREANS DEPLOY MBTS TO TS25
SHOALWATER BAY QLD: South Korean Marines have deployed Main Battle Tanks to Australia in their Talisman Sabre combat team for the first time.
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FIRST AUSSIE HIMARS GMLRS LAUNCH
SHOALWATER BAY QLD: The Australian Army has launched live 227mm GMLRS Guided Multiple Launch Rocket System rounds from its new HIMARS for the first time.
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REGIONAL PRESENCE DEPLOYMENT 25
AT SEA: The destroyer HMAS Brisbane is underway north to the Indo Pacific to conduct the third Regional Presence Deployment of the year.
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TALISMAN SABRE 2025 KICKS OFF
AUSTRALIA: Exercise Talisman Sabre 25 has officially commenced and will rampage across northern Australia and PNG over the next three weeks.
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HUNTER FRIGATE PRODUCTION
OSBORNE SA: Production of the first Hunter class frigate is underway with more blocks consolidated in the hull.
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ANZAC WARSHIPS IN CSG25 ESCORT FORCE
INDIAN OCEAN: Australian and New Zealand warships are contributing to the Royal Navy Carrier Strike Group 25 heading for TS25.
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GOVT CONSIDERING SENIOR OFFICER CUT
CANBERRA: The Albanese Government is considering restructuring the Department of Defence combat capability acquisition agencies and cutting a modest number of general officers.
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BLACK HAWKS AT AATC OAKEY
OAKEY QLD: Australian Army Aviation is now flying a second unit of UH-60M Black Hawks out of Swartz Barracks Oakey.
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US JOINT THEATRE DISTRIBUTION CENTER
TOWNSVILLE: The US Army will test its new Townsville based Joint Theatre Distribution Center to support its Talisman Sabre contingents with vehicles and logistics.
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EX SOUTHERN QLD WARFIGHTER COMPLETE
SHOALWATER BAY QLD: The Australian Army's work up activities towards Exercise Talisman Sabre 25 have culminated with Ex Southern Queensland Warfighter now complete.
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EXPEDITIONARY MOBILE BASE IN AUSTRALIA
SYDNEY: One of the US Navy's rare Lewis B. Puller class Expeditionary Mobile Base ships has arrived in Australia in the lead up to Exercise Talisman Sabre 25.
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CANBERRA CLASS AMPHIBIOUS ASSAULT SHIP ISSUES
CANBERRA: The Australian National Audit Office has revealed the Royal Australian Navy's Canberra class AAS's critical deficiencies in its latest audit report.
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ENASAMS AIM-9X WVRAAM LAUNCH IMAGERY
WOOMERA SA: The Army has released more imagery of the AIM-9X missile live fire tests at Woomera. Pic Army
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HMAS SYDNEY JOINS CARRIER STRIKE GROUP 25
SINGAPORE: The RAN's Hobart class destroyer HMAS Sydney is operating with the Royal Navy's Carrier Strike Group 25.
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HMAS ARAFURA COMMISSIONED INTO SERVICE
FREMANTLE WA: The RAN's delayed Arafura class Offshore Patrol Vessels have finally entered service, with first of class HMAS Arafura commissioned.
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DEFENCE TERMINATES M795 FORGING DEAL
CANBERRA: The Dept of Defence has terminated its 155mm M795 projectile production program with plans to expand the concept to naval munitions.
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US PRESSURE TO INCREASE DEFENCE SPEND
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Government is under pressure to increase defence spending by the Trump administration to counter global security threats.
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2ND E-7A WEDGETAIL OP KUDU DEPLOYMENT
EUROPE: The RAAF will deploy an E-7A Wedgetail to Poland to support the NATO military aid mission for Ukraine later this year.
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TE KAHA JOINS BRIT CARRIER STRIKE GROUP
INDIAN OCEAN: HMNZS Te Kaha has integrated into the Royal Navy's Carrier Strike Group 25 after completion of her counter terrorism deployment in the Middle East. Pic RNZN
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MH-60R ASW UPGRADE
USA: The Royal Australian Navy's expanding fleet of MH-60R Romeo naval combat helicopters will have their Anti Submarine Warfare capability upgraded.
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NIGHT STALKERS IN QUEENSLAND
AMBERLEY QLD: Flight elements of the elite US Army Special Operations Command 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment are in Queensland ahead of Ex Talisman Sabre. Pic FOG Shots
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F-35 TR3 UPGRADE FINALISED
USA: Prime Contractor Lockheed Martin has announced that the troubled and seriously delayed TR3 software upgrade for the Lightning II is complete.
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eNASAMS NOW ARMED WITH AIM-9 WVRAAM
WOOMERA SA: The Australian Army's new eNASAMS surface to air missile system is being certified for the heatseeking AIM-9 missile.
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HMAS ANZAC READY FOR SCRAPPING
HENDERSON WA: Former HMAS Anzac has been stripped of components of value and moored awaiting her end with the scrappers.
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RHINO & GROWLER UPGRADE SYSTEMS APPROVED
USA: The US State Department has notified congress of its approval of an RAAF order for highly classified avionics subsystems for the F/A-18F and EA-18G block upgrades.
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SUCCESSFUL GHOST BAT TACTICAL TRIALS
WOOMERA SA: The Department of Defence has confirmed successful tactical mission profile flight tests with the MQ-28A Ghost Bat CCA.
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AMERICA AMPHIBIOUS STRIKE GROUP ARRIVES
SYDNEY: The USS America Amphibious Ready Group and its embarked 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit have arrived in Australia ahead of Exercise Talisman Sabre 2025.
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ARAFURA APPROACHES IIS DEADLINE
ROCKINGHAM WA: The Royal Australian Navy's first of class Offshore Patrol Vessel future HMAS Arafura is fast approaching her latest Introduction Into Service deadline.
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SASR & PNGDF SPECIAL OPS TRAINING
PERTH: The PNGDF's elite Long Range Reconnaissance Unit has completed Special Operations training with the SASR in Perth.
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BRITS ANNOUNCE AUKUS SSN EXPANSION
UNITED KINGDOM: The Royal Navy will increase its Aukus class nuclear submarine buy by 70% stabilising the Australian program.
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JAPANESE BATTLE GROUP IN FNQ
TOWNSVILLE: The Japanese Ground Self Defence Force battle group training in Far North Queensland is the largest to ever deploy to Australia.
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ROYAL NAVY CARRIER STRIKE GROUP INBOUND
RED SEA: The Brit Carrier Strike Group 25 is transiting the Red Sea inbound for Australia and Exercise Talisman Sabre 25.
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FIRST M1A2 COMBINED LIVE FIRE
TOWNSVILLE: The Australian Army's new M1A2 SEPv3 Abrams tanks are running hard towards operational certification with their first combined live fire achieved.
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MAJOR WEAPON BUYS THIS YEAR
GOLD COAST: The Government has reconfirmed its commitment to military spending with major new programs to be finalised this year.
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EXTENDED FIJI INFANTRY COY DEPLOYMENT
BRISBANE: A company group from the Fiji Infantry Regiment is conducting an extended deployment to Australia with 7th Brigade.
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BIRDON VESSELS FOR USMC
USA: Aussie military vessel specialist Birdon is building new amphibious landing craft for the US Marine Corps.
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SOVEREIGN TACTICAL sUAS EMERGE
AUSTRALIA: The first locally designed and manufactured tactical Small Unmanned Aerial Systems have emerged out of the Sovereign UAS Challenge.
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TALISMAN SABRE MRH-90 FATAL CRASH REPORT
AUSTRALIA: The Defence Flight Safety Bureau report into the fatal crash of MRH-90 A40-040 in July 2023 has been released with findings.
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BUSHMASTER COUNTER UAS CAPABILITY
AUSTRALIA: Thales Australia is offering an advanced counter drone system for the Australian Army's large Bushmaster PMV fleet.
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FIRST NEW ZEALAND VAMTAC ST5
NEW ZEALAND: The New Zealand Department of Defence has accepted its first next generation VAMTAC ST5 Utility Vehicle Light tactical vehicles.
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TALISMAN SABRE LEAD IN ACTIVITY
QUEENSLAND: The Australian Army is working up for this year's Talisman Sabre exercise which will be the largest ever in the series.
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TALON STRIKE LOITERING MUNITIONS
AUSTRALIA: The Department of Defence is prioritising the establishment of a local loitering munitions industrial capacity.
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F-35 SIMULATOR NETWORKING
AUSTRALIA: The RAAF is the first F-35 partner operator to field fused network synthetic training technology.
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US ARMY DESIGNATES FLRAA TILTROTOR
USA: The US Army has formally issued its mission design series designator for the Valor Future Long Range Assault Aircraft.
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POST AMCAP ANZAC FLEET STATUS
AUSTRALIA: With the major Anzac Midlife Capability Assurance Program upgrade complete, the RAN's Anzac have headed into their final quarter.
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DEFENCE POLICY LIKELY ON A STEADY COURSE
CANBERRA: The return of the Albanese Government in the election will likely see defence policy retaining its previous settings.
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HMAS SYDNEY NORTH KOREA SURVEILLANCE OPS
YELLOW SEA: The Hobart class destroyer HMAS Sydney has joined the UN operation conducting surveillance of North Korean sanctions evasion operations.
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TWO MORE ECCPBs COMMISSIONED
DARWIN: The RAN has formally commissioned two more of its new Evolved Cape class Patrol Boats into service.
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US ARMY TO RADICALLY CUT APACHE FLEET
USA: The US Army will radically reduce its older AH-64D Apache fleet and cut new orders of the type undermining the Australian Army acquisition of the type.
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CANADIAN CC-177 IN GLOBAL DEXTERITY
AMBERLEY: The Royal Canadian Air Force CC-177 Globemaster is participating in Ex Global Dexterity at Amberley for the first time.
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HMNZS TE MANA OPERATIONAL WITH TF150
MIDDLE EAST: The Royal New Zealand Navy's HMNZS Te Kaha is conducting Maritime Security Operations in the Middle East with Task Force 150.
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2ND TRITON DELIVERED
TINDAL NT: Another massive MQ-4C Triton Broad Area Maritime Survellance drone has been delivered to the RAAF by Northrop Grumman.
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D SQUADRON 2 CAVALRY REGT OPERATIONAL
TOWNSVILLE: The Australian Army's second M1A2 SEPv3 Abrams tank squadron is now at work at Lavarack Barracks in FNQ.
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KC-46A CERTIFIED TO REFUEL RAAF E-7A
USA: The USAF has prioritised the RAAF E-7A as the first foreign airframe to be certified for inflight refuelling on the KC-46A Pegasus.
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INTEGRATOR TUAS IN SERVICE
BRISBANE: The Integrator TUAS is now operational, with the first full regimental field activities complete.
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NINTH EVOLVED CAPE CLASS PATROL BOAT
HENDERSON WA: The ninth Evolved Cape class Patrol Boat for the Royal Australian Navy has been launched in Western Australia.
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UKRAINE M1A1 ABRAMS TRANSFER DELAY
AUSTRALIA: The transfer of retired Australian Army M1A1 Abrams to Ukraine is still awaiting formal US congressional approval.
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RNZAF P-8A SUPPORT MATURES
NEW ZEALAND: The RNZAF has received its first high resolution full flight simulators and is about to commission high security hangars for its P-8A Poseidons.
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FIRST RAN ORs ABOUT TO DEPLOY ON USN SSNs
USA: The first Aussie sailors have graduated and are about to join their officer counterparts on active US Navy nuclear submarines.
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RAAF P-8A POSEIDON ACTIVE IN NORTH KOREA OPS
EAST SEA: RAAF surveillance of North Korea sanctions evasion for the United Nations is underway in the maritime approaches to the DPRK.
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NO NEXT GEN F-35 RADAR FOR RAAF
USA: The US has excluded partners from the advanced new radar that is the keystone of the F-35 Block 4 upgrade.
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STARLINK INTEGRATED ON THEE-7A WEDGETAIL
WILLIAMTOWN NSW: The RAAF has integrated Starlink satellite internet connectivity on its E-7A Wedgetail AEW&C aircraft.
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RUSSIA TARGETS AUSTRALIA
INDONESIA: Russia has launched a diplomatic attack on Australia, calling our US military hosting arrangements a threat to Indo Pacific security.
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MRFD25 AIR COMBAT ELEMENT OPERATIONAL
DARWIN: The MV-22B tiltrotors of Marine Rotational Force - Darwin 25's Air Combat Element are operational.
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NEW M1150 & M1074 IN AUSTRALIA
PUCKAPUNYAL: The first of the Australian Army's new M1150 Assault Breacher Vehicles and M1074 Joint Assault Bridges have arrived.
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US NAVY INTEREST IN MQ-28A GHOST BAT
USA: The US Navy has confirmed that it is assessing the Australian based MQ-28A Ghost Bat combat drone program for its own operations.
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REDUCED ADF BERSAMA LIMA CONTINGENT
MALAYSIA: The Australian Defence Force has deployed a much smaller contingent in the FPDA Ex Bersama Lima than last year.
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$5 BILLION IN F-35 OFFSETS
AUSTRALIA: Australian companies have undertaken $5 billion in contractual work for the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter program.
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AS21 REDBACK DOZER BLADE
UNITED KINGDOM: The Australian Army's next generation AS21 Infantry Fighting Vehicle will feature an integrated Combat Dozer Blade.
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RAAF AMRAAM ACQUISITION
USA: The US State Department has approved an Aussie request for hundreds of the most advanced variants of the AMRAAM Air Interception Missile.
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ADDITIONAL MH-60R DELIVERY TIMELINE
NOWRA NSW: The Royal Australian Navy's additional MH-60R Romeo helicopters are in production and heading Downunder in the not to far distant future.
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MASS NAVAL COUNTERMEASURES PRODUCTION
BRISBANE: Production of the Royal Australian Navy's next generation Anti Ship Missile countermeasures system is underway.
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NEW ZEALAND INCREASES DEFENCE FUNDING
NEW ZEALAND: The New Zealand Defence Force's budget will be almost doubled albiet from a low base under Government plans.
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M1A2 ABRAMS ENGINEERING ACCESSORIES
PUCKAPUNYAL: The Australian Army's new M1A2 fleet has a full suite of combat manoeuvre engineering accessories in support.
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LAND BASED MARITIME STRIKE SELECTION
CANBERRA: The fast tracked selection process to choose a mobile Anti Ship Missile capability for the Australian Army is underway.
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RAAF 6 GEN GCAP BRIEFING
GEELONG VIC: The RAAF has been briefed on the advanced British led Japanese and Italian Tempest sixth generation combat aircraft program.
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BRITS RE EVALUATING AUKUS
UNITED KINGDOM: The British Government has launched an inquiry into the viability of AUKUS in the wake of Trump Administration strategic estrangement with long term allies.
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USS MINNESOTA TENDERED IN DARWIN
DARWIN: The US Navy's Virginia class nuclear submarine USS Minnesota has surfaced in Darwin only a month after her visit to Western Australia.
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15th RAAF OP ARGOS DEPLOYMENT
JAPAN: The RAAF has returned to Japan to conduct surveillance of North Korea's sanctions evasion operations.
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155mm ASSEGAI ARTY AMMO FIRST FIRING
TOWNSVILLE: The Australian Army has successfully fired its advanced new Assegai artillery ammunition for the first time.
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PrSM INCREMENT 1 MISSILES THIS YEAR
GEELONG VIC: The first Precision Strike Missile Increment 1 All Up Rounds will be delivered to the Australian Army this year.
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F9 PISTOL ROLL OUT
BRISBANE: The Australian Army's new pistol has been rolled out across the Brisbane based 7th Brigade.
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OWL-X COUNTER ROBOT ARMED DRONE
GEELONG VIC: A super advanced AI enabled Aussie made Counter Robotic Autonomous Systems loitering munition has been revealed.
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RNZAF & USN AIRCRAFT MAINTENANCE IN SA
EDINBURGH SA: Royal New Zealand Air Force and United States Navy P-8A Poseidons and MQ-4C Tritons BAMS UAS will undergo deeper maintenance in Australia.
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MQ-28A GHOST BAT WEAPONS TESTS
GEELONG VIC: Boeing has revealed that it has plans to conduct the first MQ-28A Ghost Bat weapons tests in the near future.
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FIRST AAAVN AH-64Ev6 FINAL ASSEMBLY
USA: The final assembly of the first of the Australian Army's future AH-64v6 Apache Guardian helicopters is underway in Arizona.
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FIRST M142 HIMARS DELIVERED
AVALON VIC: The first of the Australian Army's new M142 High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems were delivered to Australia on Friday.
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AGM-158A LRASM ENTERS SERVICE
USA: The Royal Australian Air Force has successfully validated the advanced and stealthy AGM-158A Long Range Anti Ship Missile.
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ADDITIONAL MK 48 MOD 7 CBASS TORPEDOES
CANBERRA: The Royal Australian Navy is augmenting its Mark 48 Mod 7 CBASS Heavyweight Torpedo war stores with a new order for the weapons.
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AIRCRAFT COUNTERMEASURES ACQUISITION
USA: The US State Department has approved a RAAF request for a number of countermeasures munitions for its aircraft fleets.
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CANADA JOINS JINDALEE PROGRAM
CANADA: Canada has announced it will acquire Australian Jindalee over the horizon radar technology for its key NORAD Arctic radar program.
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US ARMY APACHES FLY IN
RICHMOND NSW: Two US Army AH-64E Apache's are in Australia to fly at airshows and support the Australian Army's introduction of the type.
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MARINE ROTATIONAL FORCE - DARWIN 25 DEPLOYS
DARWIN: The advance elements of Marine Rotational Force - Darwin 2025 have flown into RAAF Darwin.
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5AVN WILL FLY UH-60M FROM OAKEY
OAKEY QLD: Australian Army Aviation has confirmed that the legendary 5th Aviation Regiment will fly the new UH-60M Black Hawk.
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GMLRS & M795 PRODUCTION
CANBERRA: Australia and the United States have finalised agreements for local production of GMLRS guided artillery rockets and 155mm artillery rounds.
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2ND M1A2 ABRAMS SQUADRON OPCON
PUCKAPUNYAL VIC: Personnel assigned to 2nd Cavalry Regiment's second Main Battle Tank Squadron are undergoing operational conversion.
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JMSDF MOGAMI FRIGATE AT FBW
ROCKINGHAM WA: A Japanese Mogami class frigate has docked in Western Australia, allowing the RAN a close look at the advanced Japanese design.
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UH-60Ms BOUND FOR OAKEY
OAKEY QLD: Australian Army Aviation will be flying UH-60M Black Hawks out of the Army Aviation Training Centre at Oakey within a few months.
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ARMY APPROVED FOR MORE 227mm GMLRS ALTERNATIVE WARHEAD
USA: The US State Department has approved an Australian Army request for additional M30A2 GMLRS-Alternative Warhead All Up Rounds.
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USN SURF-WEST DEPLOYMENTS KICK OFF
ROCKINGHAM WA: The first US Navy contingent supporting Submarine Rotational Force - West has arrived at HMAS Stirling near Perth.
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OP TROPICAL CYCLONE ALFRED ASSIST
GOLD COAST: The Australian Army is spearheading the ADF's response to the emerging flood and storm disaster unfolding in southern Qld and northern NSW.
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E-7A WEDGETAIL UPGRADE
WILLIAMTOWN NSW: The latest funding package for the progressive upgrade and sustainment of the RAAF's E-7A Wedgetail AEW&C fleet has been announced.
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GP FRIGATE TIMELINE CONTROVERSY
CANBERRA: A controversy has arrisen over the decision time line for the RAN's next generation General Purpose Frigates.
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HUNTER FRIGATE PRODUCTION MILESTONE
OSBORNE SA: The production of the future HMAS Hunter will hit a key milestone with the consolidation of the first modular 'blocks' later this month..
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ADF RECOVERS WASHED UP TORPEDO
GOLD COAST QLD: Australian Defence Force Explosive Ordnance specialists have recovered the Mk54 REXTORP training torpedo found on a Gold Coast beach..
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FIRST HUNTSMAN SPH FIRE UNIT
GEELONG VIC: The first Huntsman Self Propelled Artillery System Fire Unit is being delivered to the Australian Army.
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USS MINNESOTA DOCKS AT FLEET BASE WEST
ROCKINGHAM WA: The US Navy has deployed its first nuclear powered attack submarine to Fleet Base West south of Perth for 2025.
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ARAFURA COMMISSIONING TIMELINE REVEALED
CANBERRA: The Chief of Navy has outlined the schedule for future HMAS Arafura's acceptance and commissioning.
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NEW DETAILS OF CHINESE SURFACE ACTION GROUP
TASMAN SEA: The Chinese Surface Action Group remains in Australian waters south of Tasmania heading into the Great Australian Bight.
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EXERCISE COPE NORTH 25 COMPLETE
GUAM: The annual trilateral offensive air operations exercise between Australia, Japan and the USA in Guam has been successfully completed .
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1ST AS21 REDBACK IFV THIS YEAR
TOWNSVILLE: The first new AS21 Redback Infantry Fighting Vehicles will arrive at 3rd Brigade sometime this year.
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TALISMAN SABRE ACTIVITY IN PNG
PAPUA NEW GUINEA: A sub component of this year's Exercise Talisman Sabre will be conducted in Papua New Guinea.
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CHINESE SURFACE ACTION GROUP MOVES SOUTH
TASMAN SEA: The Chinese naval group transiting close to Australia's Pacific coastline is being closely watched by the Australian Defence Force.
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UH-60M BLACK HAWK IOC CERTIFICATION
HOLSWORTHY NSW: The Australian Army has certified IOC for 6th Aviation Regiment's new UH-60M Black Hawks.
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RNZN LAUNCHES FIRST AGM-119
TASMAN SEA: The Royal New Zealand Navy has launched a live AGM-119 All Up Round warshot for the first time.
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RAN's GP FRIGATE PROGRAM MOMENTUM
AUSTRALIA: The Royal Australian Navy's General Purpose Frigate acquisition is gaining momentum with both tenders pushing their warship design.
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INDONESIA CUTS DEFENCE SPENDING
INDONESIA: The new Indonesian President is seriously reducing defence spending and redirecting funds to social programs.
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RECKLESS CHINESE ATTACKS ON ADF FORCES CONTINUE
SOUTH CHINA SEA: The latest reckless and dangerous Chinese military interception of an RAAF aircraft is part of an escalating programs of less than lethal attacks on Australian Defence Force elements.
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HMNZS TE KAHA DEPARTS FOR MIDDLE EAST
NEW ZEALAND: HMNZS Te Kaha has departed Auckland for an operational deployment with CTF-150 in the Middle East.
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ARMY ACQUIRING MMPAR RADARS
CANBERRA: The Australian Army will acquire Aussie CEA MMPAR Multi Mission Phased Array Radars for its Long Range Fires Regiments.
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KORD WINS US ARMY CONTRACT
USA: The US Army has downselected Australian developed Kord RACU weapon interfaces within its massive Next Generation Squad Weapons program.
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EX COPE NORTH 2025
GUAM: The RAAF has returned to Guam in force for the trilateral Ex Cope North between the RAAF, Japan Air Self Defence Force and US Pacific Air Forces.
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THIRD RAAF MQ-4C COMPLETES FLIGHT TRIALS
USA: The third RAAF MQ-4C has complete Northrop Grumman contractor flight trials and will be delivered later this year.
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NEXT GENERATION SQUAD WEAPON FCS ISSUES
USA: The US Army's operational conversion to the new 6.8x51mm XM7 and XM250 small arms is being complicated by issues with the advanced 'smart' scope.
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FIRST AUSTRALIAN M1074 JAB
USA: The first of the Australian Army's new Joint Assault Bridge vehicles has been spotted in the USA. Pic Gregory Knowles/X
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AN/USG-34(V)2 IRST21 ISSUES
USA: The Royal Australian Air Force's critical introduction of the IRST21 system able to engage stealth aircraft and missiles and see through jamming has some 'problems'.
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ADDITIONAL AGM-88G AARGM-ER FOR RAAF
CANBERRA: The Royal Australian Air Force is acquiring a large tranche of advanced AARGM-ER Suppression of Enemy Air Defence missiles .
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RNZAF C-130H FINAL FLIGHTS
NEW ZEALAND: The Royal New Zealand Air Force is conducting the final flights of its legendary 55 year old H model Hercs.
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OPV EYRE COMMENCES SEA TRIALS
OSBORNE SA: The troubled Arafura class Offshore Patrol Vessel program has achieved a milestone with the second ship commencing sea trials.
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FRENCH NAVAL RAFALES IN DARWIN
DARWIN: A flight of French Rafale M's forward deployed from the Charles de Gaulle Carrier Strike Group to RAAF Darwin for exercises.
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NAVAL SPECIAL WARFARE RHIB ACQUISITION
AUSTRALIA: Special Operations Command - Australia is replacing its inservice fast assault boats with new NSWRHIBs.
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MC-55A PEREGRINE FLIGHT TRIALS
USA: New images of the RAAF's top secret MC-55A Peregrine electronic warfare aircraft have emerged online. Pic SR Planespotter/X
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NULKA MISSILE DECOY COMBAT PROVEN
USA: The US Navy has confirmed that the Aussie made Mk 234 Nulka Offboard Active Decoy has "demonstrated great performance in combat" seducing Houthi missiles away from warships.
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FIRST AS9 HUNTSMAN SPH DELIVERED
GEELONG VIC: The first image of what appears to be a final Aussie configuration AS9 Huntsman 155mm SPH has emerged on X. Pic Pic Gregory Knowles/X
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REGIONAL PRESENCE DEPLOYMENT 25-1
DARWIN: HMAS Hobart departed Darwin Harbour on Friday to fly the flag on Regional Presence Deployment 25-1.
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EXERCISE RED FLAG 25-1
USA: A contingent of Australian combat aircraft have deployed to Nellis AFB at Las Vegas for the highly classified Ex Red Flag 25-1.
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RAAF P-8As 013 & 014 IN PRODUCTION
USA: The RAAF's final two P-8A Poseidons are in final production in the USA with delivery in 2025 likely.
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CRITICAL YEAR FOR MQ-28A GHOST BAT PROGRAM
AUSTRALIA: The RAAF's cutting edge Ghost Bat Loyal Wingman program either gets a decent RAAF acquisition contract or risks losing ground to international competitors.
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HEAVY COMBAT ENGINEERING VEHICLES IN 2025
AUSTRALIA: The Royal Australian Engineers are set to exponentially expand their capability with the introduction of new Abrams based Heavy Combat Engineering Track vehicles this year.
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HAWKEI ACCEPTANCE ALMOST COMPLETE
AUSTRALIA: After years of delays, four out of five Hawkei Protected Mobility Vehicle - Light have entered service with the Australian Army.
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MORE BUSHMASTER PMV-Ms FOR ARMY
BENDIGO: The Dept of Defence has finalised an eighth contract for new build Bushmaster PMV-Ms to equip new long range missile units.
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US NAVY DECLARES NEXT GENERATION JAMMER - MID BAND IOC
USA: The US Navy has declared the already combat proven AN/ALQ-249(V1) Next Generation Jammer - Mid Band operational paving the way for the RAAF's entry into service.
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UH-60M DELIVERIES BEHIND SCHEDULE
HOLSWORTHY NSW: The 'fast tracked' deliveries of new UH-60M Black Hawks are behind schedule according to Minister of Defence Industry and Capability Delivery.
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HMAS BRISBANE RETURNS FROM USA
SYDNEY HARBOUR: The Hobart class destroyer HMAS Brisbane has returned to Fleet Base East after her five month US deployment.
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NEW ARMY SYSTEMS FOR 2025
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Army will receive a bunch of new weapons systems in 2025 that will exponentially improve its combat capability.
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OPERATION OKRA CONCLUDES
IRAQ: The Australian Defence Force's ten year mission to defeat Islamic State in Iraq and Afghanistan has been formally concluded.
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2 CAVALRY REGT ORDER OF BATTLE REVEALED
TOWNSVILLE: The Australian Army has revealed the future Order of Battle of its 2nd Cavalry Regiment armoured cavalry regiment.
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OPERATION VANUATU ASSIST AIRLIFT
VANUATU: Australia and New Zealand have responded to the Port Vila earthquake with surveillance and emergency response airlifts of aid and personnel.
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HMAS TOOWOOMBA FIELDS RGM-184A NSM
HENDERSON WA: Confirmation of a second Royal Australian Navy Anzac class frigate has been armed with the Naval Strike Missile has emerged.
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RAAF F-35A LIGHTNING II FLEET COMPLETE
WILLIAMTOWN NSW: The RAAF's fleet of F-35As is complete with the last aircraft flown into RAAF Williamtown yesterday. Pic Glen Greathead
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H135 JUNO HELOS OPERATIONAL
OAKEY QLD: Australian Army Aviation's small fleet of new H135 Juno HT1 helicopters has commenced flight operations at AATC Oakey.
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SUCCESSFUL SMART SEA MINE WARSHOT TEST
AUSTRALIA: The Royal Australian Navy has confirmed that it has successfully tested its new Multi Influence Sea Mine with a live fire of an All Up Round warshot.
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NEW SECOND GEN MEDIUM INFANTRY KNIFE MIK-03P K340
AUSTRALIA: Halfbreed Blades has releaed their new second gen MIK-03P knife in K340 tool steel just in time for Christmas.
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COLLINS LISTED AS 'PRODUCT OF CONCERN'
AUSTRALIA: The Royal Australian Navy's contracted submarine maintenance program has been designated a Product of Concern by the Department of Defence.
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ANZAC FRIGATE NAVAL STRIKE MISSILE LAUNCH
AUSTRALIA: The Royal Australian Navy has confirmed that it has successfully launched a Naval Strike Missile from an Anzac class frigate.
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RNZAF C-130J-30 OPERATIONAL CONVERSION
NEW ZEALAND: The Royal New Zealand Air Force's operational conversion from the 1960s era C-130H to the new C-130J-30 is all but complete.
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LOCALLY MADE NAVAL STRIKE MISSILE LAUNCHER TESTS
PORT WAKEFIELD SA: Kongsberg Australia has successfully tested its locally made Naval Strike Missile Launching System at the Joint Proofing Experimental Unit.
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NO SIGN OF ARAFURA CLASS OPV IIS
OSBORNE SA: The Royal Australian Navy has been silent about its future Arafura class OPVs as the latest deadline for their entry into service approaches. Photo by Pete Turner/shipspotting.com
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RGM-109E TLAM-E ENTERS RAN SERVICE
USA: The Royal Australian Navy has successfully tested a live Tomahawk Land Attack Missile from one of its Hobart class DDGs.
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MARINE ROTATIONAL FORCE - DARWIN 2025 UNITS
USA: The US Marine Corps has certified its ground combat elements that will deploy to Australia as Marine Rotational Force - Darwin 2025.
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MARK 48 MOD 7 CBASS PRODUCTION RESUMES
USA: Production of critical components of the RAN's Heavyweight Torpedo is underway at Lockheed Martin's reactivated Mark 48 production line.
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STRIKEMASTER vs HIMARS TRIALS
AUSTRALIA: The ABC is reporting that the Albanese Govt will conduct a competitive tender between StrikeMaster and HIMARS for Army's Ground Launched Anti Ship Missile requirement.
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5RAR REDESIGNATED AS 5/7RAR
DARWIN: The Northern Territory based 5RAR has been redesignated 5/7RAR after sister battalion 7RAR was disbanded under Albanese Government cuts to Army.
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PrSM INCREMENT 2 FIRMS UP
USA: Successful tests of the Australian partnered Precision Strike Missile Increment 2 pave the way for the Australian Army to adopt the advanced moving target/Anti Ship ground launched missile.
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6 COMBAT SUPPORT BRIGADE DISBANDING
BRISBANE: The Army's 6th Combat Support Brigade is effectively disbanded with its units reassigned to other formations ahead of disestablishment in a few weeks.
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USMC FIELDS NMESIS MISSILE SYSTEM
HAWAII: The US Marine Corps has fielded its key NMESIS missile system, paving the way for the Australian Army.
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MORE NEW F-35As FLY IN
WILLIAMTOWN NSW: The first of the RAAF's new configuration Block 4 F-35As has been delivered to RAAF Williamtown. Pic Glen Greathead/GEG Aviation
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OPERATIONAL ECCPBs TO BE COMMISSIONED
DARWIN: The Royal Australian Navy will mass commission multiple Australian Defence Vessels in its Top End based patrol fleet.
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MORE AN/ALQ-249(V1) NGJ-MBs FOR RAAF
USA: The RAAF is contracted for a second tranche of the advanced AN/ALQ-249(V1) Next Generation Jammer - Mid Band for its Airborne Electronic Attack fleet.
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SUCCESSFUL TRIAL OF RAPID TAXIWAY SYSTEM
TINDAL NT: The RAAF has successfully trialled a plastic modular hard base system to rapidly construct taxiways as part of its airfield damage repair and dispersed air operations programs.
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VIRGINIA SSN BASED IN GUAM
GUAM: The US Navy has based its first Virginia class nuclear powered submarine in Guam, ahead of the eventual basing of the subs in Western Australia.
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H135s NOT FLYING AT AATC YET
OAKEY QLD: Australian Army Aviation has missed its 'mid year' deadline to introduce its new H135 Juno helos with none flying out of Oakey to date.
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2 CAV ASSIGNED FIRST NEW M1A2 SEPv3 ABRAMS
TOWNSVILLE: The first of the next generation M1A2 SEPv3 Abrams have been delivered to 2nd Cavalry Regiment in Townsville.
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FRIGATE DOWNSELECT CONFIRMED
AUSTRALIA: The Government has formally announced the downselection of two designs for the RAN's rushed General Purpose Frigate fleet confirming earlier reporting.
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LST100 LCH CONFIGURATION & CAPABILITY
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Army's future LST100 Landing Ship Transport design packs a lot of capability into a compact design.
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NZ ARMY ORDERS VAMTAC TACTICAL VEHICLES
NEW ZEALAND: The New Zealand Army will acquire VAMTAC tactical vehicles and light trucks to replace its old Unimogs and LOVs.
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UKRAINIAN ARMY TRAINING MISSION MILESTONE
ENGLAND: The international British Army led Operation Interflex, including the Australian and New Zealand Army training teams has trained 50,000 Ukrainians to fight against Putin.
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HAFLBREED BLADES' LBF-02 GEN-2 JUST RELEASED
AUSTRALIA: Halfbreed Blades announces a new addition to their LBF family of blades.
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ADF PAYLOAD LAUNCH
USA: An Australian Defence Force linked 'classified military communications satellite' was launched into orbit by SpaceX on Monday.
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AUKUS HYPERSONIC TECH PROGRAM
AUSTRALIA: Australia, the United States and the United Kingdom will integrate their hypersonic weapons development research to fast track offensive and defensive systems into service.
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NO FUNDING, APPROVALS FOR GP FRIGATES
CANBERRA: Testimony before the Senate in early November revealed that the Albanese Govt's signature fast tracked General Purpose Frigate acquisition had not yet been approved and no funding was allocated.
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EXERCISE KERIS WOOMERA 2024
INDONESIA: The Australia and Indonesia have conducted their first ever bilateral amphibious training activity with a long range over the beach insertion near Surabaya.
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F-35A LIGHTNING II FOC EARLY NEXT YEAR
CANBERRA: If everything goes to plan, the RAAF is scheduled to declare Final Operating Capability for its advanced F-35A Lightning II fleet within a few months.
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RAAF REFUELS WARTHOGS OVER SOUTH KOREA
REPUBLIC OF KOREA: RAAF MRTTs conducted a rare aerial refuelling of USAF A-10C 'Warthogs' over South Korea in October .
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POSTHUMOUS VICTORIA CROSS FOR VIETNAM HERO
CANBERRA: 1RAR Vietnam hero Richard Norden has had his original DCM upgraded to a Victoria Cross in recognition of his extraordinary valour during the Battle of Coral.
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HMAS GASCOYNE COMPLETES FINAL MISSION
SYDNEY HARBOUR: Minehunter HMAS Gascoyne is now laid up awaiting her decommissioning after completing her final mission last week.
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RAN POSSESSES RIM-174 WAR STOCK
AUSTRALIA: Chief of Navy has confirmed that the Royal Australian Navy has war stocks of RIM-174 SM6 Standard Missiles and all three Hobart DDGs are certified to fire them.
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FINAL F-35A DELIVERED BY XMAS
AUSTRALIA: The final RAAF F-35A Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter will be on the tarmac at RAAF Williamtown within months. Pic Keith Snyder/F16.net
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7RAR GONE, 5/7RAR RELINKED NEXT MONTH
AUSTRALIA: The proud 7RAR is officially disbanded, with 5RAR set to be renamed next month under the Albanese Army cuts.
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NEW M1A2 ABRAMS GO LOUD
PUCKAPUNYAL VIC: The Australian Army's new M1A2 SEPv3 Abrams tanks have entered service and have put rounds down range.
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RAN ORDERS MARITIME sUAS
AUSTRALIA: The Royal Australian Navy has ordered a small fleet of advanced semi autonomous surveillance drones.
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RNZN ACQUIRES SENTINEL 780R
NEW ZEALAND: The RNZN has contracted Tasmanian boat builder Sentinel Boats for a next generation Naval Sea Boat.
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RAAF P-8A DEPLOYS ON OP ARGOS
JAPAN: Another P-8A Poseidon is flying sanctions surveillance missions for the UN monitoring North Korean sanctions evasion ops.
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ORBITAL SATCOM SWARM
CANBERRA: The ADF has abandoned traditional satcoms and is now exploring a swarm of network of mini or microsatellites to deliver combat data bandwidth.
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ADV CAPE SCHANCK ENTERS SERVICE
ROCKINGHAM WA: The latest Evolved Cape class Patrol Boat ABV Cape Schanck has entered Royal Australian Navy service.
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227mm GMLARS PRODUCTION DETAILS
CANBERRA: A major production facility for 227mm Guided Multiple Launch Artillery Rocket System munitions will be built by Lockheed Martin Australia.
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FIRE AT KEY AUKUS SUBMARINE SITE IN UK
ENGLAND: A fire has damaged a part of the key BAE Systems nuclear submarine production shipyard at Barrow in Furness.
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THALES AUSTRALIA AWARDED 155 ARTY AMMO PRODUCTION
BENALLA VIC: The Albanese Govt has sole selected Thales Australia to build a new factory for 155mm ammunition rather than an already operational state of the art facility in Qld.
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UH-60M BLACK HAWK DELIVERIES
HOLSWORTHY NSW: Two more UH-60M Black Hawks have been delivered and are flying with 6 Aviation Regiment in Sydney.
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127x835mmR COUNTER SMALL DRONE MUNITIONS
CANBERRA: An expedited acquisition of Counter UAS 127mm naval All Up Rounds for the RAN's warships is underway.
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TKMS SEA 3000 OFFER
GERMANY: Thyssenkrupp Marine Systems has disclosed their warship concepts the RAN's headline General Purpose Frigate contract.
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HMNZS MANAWANUI SALVAGE OPS
SAMOA: The New Zealand Government operation to clean up the wreckage and pollutants and salvage what it can from the sunk HMNZS Manawanui is underway.
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SPEARTOOTH LUUV ACTIVE IN AUTONOMY WARRIOR 24
JERVIS BAY NSW: The second of the three RAN funded submarine drones is active in the AUKUS alligned Exercise Autonomy Warrior 2024 at Jervis Bay.
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MARINE ROTATIONAL FORCE - DARWIN 24 COMPLETE
DARWIN NT: This year's Marine Rotational Force - Darwin MAGTF is complete with the last Marines now home at their regular barracks after seven months in Australia.
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ADF MONARCHICAL REVIEW
SYDNEY HARBOUR: The Australian Defence Force deployed warships, fighter jets and a large formation of Army and RAN helicopters to honour King Charles first Australian visit as Monarch. Pic Glen Greathead GEG Aviation
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GOVT RECONFIRMS SM6 & SM2 BUY
USA: The Minister for Defence Industry has reconfirmed the RIM-174 SM6 and RIM-66M-6 SM2 IIIC missiles for the Royal Australian Navy.
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ADF
CONFIRMS & DENIES ROLE IN YEMEN STRIKE
CANBERRA: The Australian Defence Force has formally denied that US bombers used RAAF bases to attack Houthi missile sites in Yemen, but formally confirmed some unidentified direct Australian assistance to mission.
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AUSSIE CDOs TRAIN WITH UKRAINE'S SPETSIALNYKH
EUROPEAN UNION: Australian Army Commandos have been training with Ukraine's elite Spetsialnykh Special Operations Forces somewhere in Europe.
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PACIFIC PROTECTOR SPECIAL OPS
SYDNEY HARBOUR: Australian and international special tactical teams were busy in Sydney Harbour in September rehearsing to interdict WMD shipments.
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RETIRED M1A1 MBTs BOUND FOR UKRAINE
CANBERRA: The Australian Army's retiring M1A1 Abrams Main Battle Tank fleet will be transferred to Ukraine as they are withdrawn from service.
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RNZAF C-130J-30 FLEET OPERATIONAL
NEW ZEALAND: The RNZAF's new C-130J-30 Herc fleet is more than half complete and is flying operational airlift missions within days of aircraft delivery.
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1st AS9 HUNTSMAN PHOTOGRAPHED
REPUBLIC OF KOREA: The first of the Australian Army's new AS9 Huntsman Self Propelled Howitzers has been photographed in South Korea.
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UNDERWATER EXPLOSIVE TEST FACILITY
NAGAMBIE VIC: Defence Science and Technology Group's new Underwater Explosive Test Facility is operational and testing military systems for combat survivability.
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FIRST RAN NUKE SAILORS GRADUATE
USA: The first Australian sailors have followed the trailblazing officers to graduate fromt US Navy submarine training.
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ARMY DEMONSTRATES OWL-B LOITERING MUNITION
PUCKAPUNYAL: The Australian Army has demonstrated the new Aussie developed OWL One Way Loitering munition for the first time.
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RAN DISPERSED LOGISTICS
BATHURST IS NT: The Royal Australian Navy is leveraging civilian facilities in forward and remote locations to support its expeditionary logistics requirements.
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RAN ASSUMES COMMAND OF CTF-153
BAHRAIN: The RAN has assumed command of Combined Task Force 153 directing security operations to protect shipping from Houthi missile USV attacks.
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ARMY TRAILING WE PLATT ROWP RWS
EDINBURGH: The Australian Army revealed an armoured vehicle equipped with the advanced but low cost Aussie made WE Platt ROWP Remote Weapons Station last month.
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ADVANCED GROWLER CONTRACTS FINALISED
USA: Contracts for the hardware to upgrade the US Navy and RAAF EA-18G Growler to Block II Advanced Growler configuration have been finalised.
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HMNZS MANAWANUI SUNK OFF SAMOA
SAMOA: The RNZN's Diving Support Ship HMNZS Manawanui has sunk after striking a reef during hydrographic survey operations off Samoa.
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UK CEDES DIEGO GARCIA TO MAURITIUS
UNITED KINGDOM: The UK Government has handed to sovereignty of the key strategic base that secures the western approaches to Australia to Mauritius.
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NZ MAJ GENERAL APPOINTED DEPUTY CJOPS
BUNGENDORE ACT: A decorated New Zealand Army two star has been appointed Deputy Chief of Joint Operations by the ADF.
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MARK 48 MOD 7 CBASS CONTRACTS
PILBARA WA: The US Navy has contracted for an undisclosed number of Mark 48 Mod 7 Heavyweight Torpedoes for the RAN's submarines.
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RAAF REMOTE AIRSTRIP ACTIVITY
PILBARA WA: The RAAF has flown F-35As into and out of remote Western Australia mining company controlled airstrips.
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REGIONAL PRESENCE DEPLOYMENT 2024.4
INDIAN OCEAN: The RAN's fourth warship has deployed under the Indo Pacific Regional Presence Deployment 2024 program with a first activity in India.
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SECOND AGM-88G AARGM-ER BUY APPROVED
USA: The US State Department has approved a significant second order of the top shelf AGM-88G AARGM-Extended Range for the RAAF.
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FOLLOW ON FONOP IN PHILIPPINE SEA
PHILIPPINE SEA: The RAN/RNZN Anzac warship package has joined with the US Navy, Japanese Maritime Self Defence Force and the Philippine Navy to conduct a multinational naval fleet training activity off Luzon.
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ANZAC TAIWAN STRAIT FONOP
DARWIN: Australian and New Zealand warships have conducted a combined passage of the Taiwan Strait cooperatively with the Japanese in defiance of Chinese demands.
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ARMY TRIALING 30x113mm M230LF
PUCKAPUNYAL: The Australian Army is trialling vehicle mounted lightweight high lethality 30x113mm cannon systems.
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TRILATERAL WARSHIP MISSILE REARMING
DARWIN: The RAN and Thales Australia have validated their ability to rearm Australian and partner warship's at ad hoc commercial facilities across Australia's north.
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RNZAF KA-350s RETAIN EEZ SURVEILLANCE
NEW ZEALAND: The RNZAF's King Air 350 ISR aircraft will retain the EEZ and fisheries surveillance mission after proving successful. Pic Josh Telfer
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PACIFIC SUPPORT SHIP COMBAT FORCES SEALIFT
PAPUA NEW GUINEA: The RAN's new Pacific Support Ship has validated its flexibility, sea lifting armour to Papua New Guinea's northern coast.
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UH-60M BLACK HAWK SEA FLIGHT TRIALS
JERVIS BAY: The Army's new UH-60M Black Hawks have commenced First of Class Flight Trials on RAN ships as part of their IIS.
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LARGEST EVER SINGAPOREAN DEPLOYMENT
SHOALWATER BAY QLD: The largest ever Singapore Armed Forces deployment to Australia is currently underway with two combat brigades and elements of a third training in SWBTA.
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HMAS BRISBANE 'INTERCHANGEABILITY' INTEGRATION WITH US NAVY
USA: The RAN's Hobart class destroyer HMAS Brisbane is on extended assignment with the US Navy's 3rd Fleet based out of California.
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ANZAC RAS DURING NK MONITORING OPS
YELLOW SEA: The Royal Australian Navy and Royal New Zealand Navy are operating together conducting survellance of North Korean attempts to evade United Nations sanctions.
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HEAVY ENGINEERING VEHICLE IIS UNDERWAY
USA: The Royal Australian Engineers' new Assault Breacher Vehicle and Joint Assault Bridge Introduction Into Service is in full swing.
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US NAVY HAILS SUCCESS OF SSN REPAIRS
ROCKINGHAM WA: The US Navy has hailed the success of the first Australian based nuclear submarine maintenance program at Fleet Base West under AUKUS.
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SWEDES & DUTCH ADOPT AUSSIE BEB BOAT
AUSTRALIA: The Netherlands and Sweden are acquiring the Aussie owned and designed Birdon Bridge Erection Boat.
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THIRD RSAF FIGHTER ROTATION IN WA
BULLSBROOK WA: The third rotation of fighters under Singapore's Extended Fighter Detachment is now operational in Western Australia.
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RIM-162/2 PRODUCTION RAMPS UP
AUSTRALIA: The latest production order for Australian made subcomponents of the RIM-162/2 is more than five times the 2022 order.
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ADF DESIGNATES 7.62x35mm MCX-LT AS F15
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Defence Force has formally designated its new .300BO MCX-LT Close Combat Weapon System as the F15.
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NEXT GEN PISTOL DESIGNATED F9
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Defence Force's next generation 9mm pistol has received its Australian service designation F9.
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M1A2 SEPv3 ABRAMS IN SERVICE
PUCKAPUNYAL: The first next gen M1A2 SEPv3 Abrams Main Battle Tanks have entered service with the School of Armour at Puckapunyal.
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AFGHANISTAN VETS STRIPPED OF MEDALS
CANBERRA: The Minister of Defence has announced he has formally stripped an undisclosed number of Special Operations Task Group Afghanistan commanders of their medals.
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MC-55A PEREGRINE WITH 10 SQN MARKINGS
USA: Photos of an Aussie MC-55A Poseidon spy plane with RAAF roundels and 10 Squadron tail art have emerged on social media.
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ATLAS CCV COLLABORATIVE COMBAT BOT
AUSTRALIA: A locally developed advanced autonomous Collaborative Combat Vehicle has been revealed by BAE Systems Australia.
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SYDNEY DEPLOYS ON OP ARGOS
KOREAN WATERS: HMAS Sydney has commenced United Nations mandated surveillance operations against North Korean sanctions evasion activities.
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JUNO LIGHT UTILITY HELICOPTERS
NOWRA NSW: Australian Army Aviations new H-135 Juno light helicopters are in country and will presumably enter service at Oakey soon.
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ARMY ACQUIRING NEW LIGHT TACTICAL VEHICLE
CANBERRA: The Australian Army is acquiring a new fleet of Polaris light tactical vehicles capable of extreme offroad mobility.
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M1A2 ABRAMS OPCON TO START IN WEEKS
PUCKAPUNYAL: The School of Armour has withdrawn its old M1A1s and is clearing the deck for M1A2 SEPv3 OpCon to commence within weeks.
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NEW BOEING MAINTENANCE FACILITY
EDINBURGH SA: Boeing's new Deep Maintenance Modification Facility at RAAF Edinburgh will support the RAAF's expanding 737 based fleets.
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JAPANESE DEPLOYMENTS TO INCREASE
CANBERRA: Japanese military deployments to Australia will increase under the expanded security cooperation agreement recently agreed by both nations.
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JOINT STRIKE MISSILE ACQUISITION CONFIRMED
ADELAIDE: The acquisition of the Joint Strike Missile for the RAAF's F-35A Lightning IIs has been formally confirmed with the first All Up Rounds due next year.
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FIRST PICS OF NSM EQUIPPED ANZAC
HENDERSON WA: The RAN has released the first imagery of an Anzac class frigate with her new Naval Strike Missile Launcher system installed.
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FIRST RNZAF C-130J-30 INBOUND
PACIFIC OCEAN: The first of the Royal New Zealand Air Force's new C-130J-30 Hercules airlifers has departed the USA and is inbound to New Zealand.
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2ND RAAF MQ-4C TRITON FLYING
USA: The second Australian MQ-4C Triton has rolled out of Northrop Grumman and is now being upgraded by the US Navy.
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ARAFURA OPV CONTRACTOR SEA TRIALS
ADELAIDE: Contractor sea trials for the delayed Arafura class Offshore Patrol Vessel have commenced in South Australia. Pic Pete Turner/shipspotting.com
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BOXER BLOCK II ACCEPTANCE
AUSTRALIA: The first of the final configuration Boxer Combat Reconnaissance Vehicle Block IIs has been delivered to the Australian Army.
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AAAVN AH-64Ev6 APACHE EXCHANGE AIRCREW
USA: The Australian Army pilots are already flying US Army Apache Guardian helicopters in the USA within the Aussie introduction of the type into service program.
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HUNTSMAN INTRODUCTION INTO SERVICE ACTIVITY
AUSTRALIA: The Huntsman Self Propelled Artillery System's Introduction Into Service program is gaining steam, with training programs and first vehicle delivery imminent.
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ARAFURA FULL MISSION BRIDGE SIMULATOR
DARWIN: Sophisticated mobile full mission simulators for the Arafura class Offshore Patrol Vessels are operational in Darwin hopefully heralding the entry into service of the first ships.
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HMAS BROOME DECOMMISSIONING
DARWIN HARBOUR: HMAS Broome will formally be decommissioned from service at a ceremony at HMAS Coonawarra in Darwin Harbour.
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BUSHMASTER PMVs IN UKRAINE'S KURSK OFFENSIVE
RUSSIA: Ex Australian Bushmaster PMV-Ms are spearheading at least one axis of advance within Ukraine's invasion of Russia's Kursk Oblast
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RGM-109 TOMAHAWK IN SERVICE SOON
NEWCASTLE NSW: The very long range RGM-109 Tomahawk cruise missile will enter RAN service within months according to the Minister for Defence Industry and Capability Delivery.
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AUSTRALIA TO ASSUME COMMAND OF RED SEA COMBAT OPS
RED SEA: The Royal Australian Navy will assume command of the high tempo naval combat operations to protect commercial shipping in the Red Sea, Bab el Mandeb and Gulf of Aden in October.
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HMAS PERTH REGIONAL PRESENCE DEPLOYMENT
ARAFURA SEA: HMAS Perth is steaming north out of Darwin heading for Southeast Asia under the Australian Defence Force's key Regional Presence Deployment program.
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USS HAWAII ARRIVES FOR AUKUS MAINTENANCE
AUSTRALIA: A Virginia class submarine has docked at Fleet Base West ahead of the first AUKUS nuclear submarine maintenance activity
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NAVAL STRIKE MISSILE & JOINT STRIKE MISSILE PRODUCTION
AUSTRALIA: Kongsberg Defence Australia will build an advanced production facility for its Naval Strike Missile and Joint Strike Missiles used by the RAN and RAAF.
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FIRST RAAF MQ-28A 'PILOT' QUALIFIED
AUSTRALIA: The first Royal Australian Air Force officer has been qualified to control MQ-28A Ghost Bat flights during the drone's flight trials.
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GHOST SHARK XL-AUV IN THE USA
USA: A second Ghost Shark XL-AUV drone sub has been built in Sydney and flown by the RAAF to the USA for testing and capability demonstrations.
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MORE FGM-148F JAVELIN AURs APPROVED
USA: The US State Department has approved the second significant FGM-148F Javelin missile buy for the Australian Army in 18 months.
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STEALTH BOMBERS RETURN TO AMBERLEY
AMBERLEY SEQ: US Air Force B-2A Stealth Bombers have returned to RAAF Amberley under the US Air Force's nomadic Bomber Task Force program.
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1st COMBINED USN & RAN SSGN MAINTENANCE
ROCKINGHAM WA: A US Navy submarine tender with an RAN maintenance contingent embedded in its crew has berthed at Fleet Base West ahead of the first combined USN and RAN nuclear submarine maintenance operation.
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HMAS BALLARAT FITTED WITH RGM-184A LAUNCHERS
HENDERSON WA: The RAN's Anzac class frigate HMAS Ballarat has been fitted with RGM-184A NSM launching systems to replace her Mark 141 launchers.
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RSAF EXTENDED FIGHTER DET IN WA
BULLSBROOK WA: A second contingent of Singaporean fast jets is operating from RAAF Pearce in WA, this time top shelf F-15SG strike fighters.
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AUSSIE APACHE OPCON IN UK
UNITED KINGDOM: A team of Australian Army Aviation technicians has been embedded with the British Army training on the AH-64Ev6 Apache since last year.
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UH-60M BLACK HAWK DELIVERY
HOLSWORTHY NSW: Additional UH-60M Black Hawks were quietly delivered to Australia mid last month and are now in service with 6 Aviation Regiment.
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USMC LEASE AUSSIE STERN LANDING VESSEL
GOLD COAST: The US Marine Corps has leased advanced Aussie Stern Landing Vessel to trial in Littoral Operations in a Contested Environment and Expeditionary Advanced Base Operations concepts.
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LUFTWAFFE PILOT TRAINING PROGRAM
CANBERRA: The German Luftwaffe sought access to the RAAF's Flying Training Schools after putting candidates through multiple international programs and assessing the RAAF as excellent.
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MINISTER REVEALS SM3 MISSILE PROGRAM
CANBERRA: The Minister for Defence Industry and Capability Delivery has disclosed that Australia is investing in the top shelf RIM-161 SM3 Inteceptor missile.
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RNZAF ACCEPTS FIRST C-130J-30 HERCULES
USA: The RNZAF has accepted the first of its new C-130J-30 Hercules from Lockheed Martin in a ceremony in Marietta Georgia.
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RAN FIRES FIRST SM6 ERAM
HAWAII: HMAS Sydney has launched a RIM-174 Standard Missile 6 Extended Range Active Missile, the first of its type by the RAN.
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C-130J BLOCK 8.1 UPGRADE
RICHMOND NSW: The RAAF's C-130J-30 Block Upgrade Project is progressing with the aircraft now flying in the latest technical specification.
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NAVANTIA's GP FRIGATE PROPOSAL
AUSTRALIA: Navantia Australia is offering a heavily armed and sensor packed compact and economical solution to the RAN's rushed General Purpose Frigate acquisition program.
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HMAS MELVILLE DECOMMISSIONING
CAIRNS FNQ: The Leeuwin class Hydrographic Ship HMAS Melville will be decommissioned from service with a formal ceremony tomorrow.
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AH-64Ev6 APACHE COUNTDOWN UNDERWAY
TOWNSVILLE: Australian Army Aviation is kicking its AH-64Ev6 Apache Guardian Introduction Into Service into gear with the arrival of the first airframes next year.
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NEXT GEN F-35 LIGHTNING RADAR
USA: The next generation F-35 Lightning II radar promises to exponentially expand the combat capacity of the already extremely capable fleet.
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AGM-158B-2 JASSM EXTREME RANGE
AUSTRALIA: The RAAF's Introduction Into Servie of the AGM-158B-2 Joint Air to Surface Standoff Missile - Extended Range was deliberately delayed to cut RAAF expenses.
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R400S MK 2 RWS ARMED HAWKIE
PERTH WA: A Hawkei PMV-L with an integrated EOS R400S Mark II D-HD Remote Weapon Station assigned to an operational unit has emerged during Ex Austral Shield 24.
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SIMULATED HIMARS & eNASAMS IN PREDATORS RUN
TOP END NT: The Darwin based 1st Brigade is employing mocked up eNASAMS Ground Based Air Defence and HIMARS artillery rocket systems to evolve tactics for the soon to arrive systems.
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JAPAN'S GP FRIGATE OFFERING
PERTH: Mitsubishi Heavy Industries has revealed the second generation of FFM as its offering for the RAN's fast tracked GP Frigate acquisition.
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7BDE LOSES MAIN BATTLE TANK CAPABILITY
BRISBANE: The 2nd/14th Light Horse Regiment's final M1A1 SA Abrams has been trucked out under the latest Army reorganisation.
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COLLINS MAINTENANCE CONTRACTS
OSBORNE SA: Contracts for the continued maintenance support of the RAN's Collins class diesel electric submarine fleet have been renewed with ASC Pty Ltd.
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MQ-28A MISSION PAYLOAD CONTROVERSY
PERTH WA: The Minister of Defence Industry has confirmed that the first MQ-28A Ghost Bats will be configured for surveillance and reconnaissance missions but leaves door open for weapons delivery.
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PITCH BLACK TANKER SUPPORT
AMBERLEY QLD: A large international fleet of modern aerial tankers is supporting Exercise Pitch Black 2024 with air to air refuelling.
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ITALIAN FAST JET DOWN IN NT
DARWIN: Northern Territory media are reporting that one of the Italian Air Force Pitch Black contingent's jets has crashed during the exercise.
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LITTORAL MANOEUVRE VESSEL-MEDIUM PRODUCTION
HENDERSON WA: Production of the Austalian Army's next generation landing craft is commencing at Austal Australia's yard at Henderson near Perth.
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USAF E-7 WEDGETAIL ACQUISITION FINALISED
USA: The US Air Force has finalised negotiations for the first prototypes of its next generation Wedgetail Airborne Early Warning & Control aircraft.
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RAN LAUNCHES RGM-184A NSM AT RIMPAC
HAWAII: The Royal Australian Navy has launched it new RGM-184A Naval Strike Missile off Hawaii as part of RIMPAC 24.
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PITCH BLACK'S USAF F-22A RAPTORS
TINDAL NT: The US Air Force's elite 27th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron's F-22As are flying alongside the RAAF's 75 Squadron during Ex Pitch Black 24.
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HAWKEI PMV-L ROLL OUT RESUMES
BENDIGO: The Australian Army's roll out of the Hawkei PMV-L has resumed after acceptance of an upgrade of the German ABS braking system.
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US MARINE LAVs DEPLOY
EDINBURGH SA: US Marine Corp's LAV armoured vehicles have deployed to Australia to test Indo Pacific long range air and rail lift and partipate in Ex Predators Run in the Top End.
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PASSIVE RADAR SENSOR SYSTEMS DELIVERED
ADELAIDE: Advanced Aussie made passive radar sensors that leverage mobile phone and commercial radio emissions to detect and track hostile aircraft have been delivered.
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CZECHIA FAVOURS BUSHMASTER PMV
CZECHIA: The Czech Army has selected the Aussie Bushmaster PMV-M as its preferred option for its Combat Engineer/EOD vehicle requirement.
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SHORT NOTICE DOMESTIC SECURITY DEPLOYMENT
NORTHERN AUSTRALIA: Army Reserve brigades from Queensland and Western Australia have conducted a short notice long distance deployment exercise to validate the capability.
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AUSSIE CORVO-X THRUST VECTORING sTUAS
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Army and RAAF will acquire the locally developed and manufactured Sypaq CorvoX surveillance drone.
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ARMY ACQUIRING VECTOR 2in1 sTUAS
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Army is acquiring the Vector 2in1 small Tactical Unmanned Aerial System to conduct tactical ISR.
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MORE BUSHMASTER PMV-Ms ORDERED
BENDIGO VIC: The Australian Army has ordered its seventh tranche of new build Bushmaster Protected Mobility Vehicles.
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FIRST RAAF 737 MAX8 ARRIVES
CANBERRA: The first of the new Boeing B737 Max 8 VIP airliners has arrived in Australia as part of the renewal of the RAAF's long serving medium Special Purpose Aircraft fleet.
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F-35 ACCEPTANCE HALT LIFTING
USA: The US F-35 Joint Program Office has signalled that it will lift the acceptance ban on new F-35s, freeing the final RAAF Lightnings to fly home soon.
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LATEST UKRAINE MILITARY AID PACKAGE
CANBERRA: Australia has announced an additional $250 million dollar military aid package of munitions for Ukraine.
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PITCH BLACK CONTINGENTS FLY IN
DARWIN NT: International contingents flying in for Ex Pitch Black have transformed into a hive of activity.
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40 COMMANDO IN NORTHERN TERRITORY
TOP END NT: The Royal Marine Commando's forward deployed 40 Commando Littoral Response Group South is in Australia training with 1st Brigade.
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USMC PILOTS FLY RAAF F-35As
TINDAL NT: US Marine Corps F-35B pilots flew RAAF F-35A Lightnings for the first time last month.
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PITCH BLACK CONTINGENTS FLY IN
DARWIN NT: International fast jet contingents are swarming into the Top End for Exercise Pitch Black 2024.
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ARMY TO ACQUIRE COMBAT PROVEN SWITCHBLADE 300/20
CANBERRA: The Australian Army will acquire the combat proven Switchblade 300 Block 20 Loitering Munition next year.
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LRASM SET TO REVOLUTIONISE AUSTRALIAN DETERRENCE
AMBERLEY: The RAAF's next generation Long Range Anti Ship Missile is a true game changer altering the military balance in Australia's favour.
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TOMAHAWK MISSILE C2 CONTRACTS
USA: The US Navy has finalised contracts for the Command & Control suite to support the Royal Australian Navy's near future Tomahawk cruise missile long range strike capability.
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AS21, AS9 & AS10 MULTI SPECTRAL SHROUD
HOBART: The Australian Army's future fleets of Infantry Fighting Vehicles and Self Propelled Howitzers will feature a radar and thermal reducing camouflage shroud to make them harder to detect.
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US NAVY DEBUTS AIR LAUNCHED SM6
HAWAII: The US Navy has introduced its new air launched SM6 Extended Range Active Missile which raises the possibilities of game changing advantages for Australia.
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RSAF EXTENDED DEPLOYMENT IN WA
RAAF PEARCE WA: The Rep of Singapore Air Force's inaugural three month extended deployment to RAAF Pearce in Western Australia is underway.
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5RAR REVEALS SUPACAT FLEET
MOUNT BUNDEY NT: The Darwin based 5RAR has revealed its new Supacat fleet during Ex Predators Walk after introducing the vehicles earlier this year.
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6AVN UH-60M FLEET GROWS TO SIX
HOLSWORTHY NSW: Another tranche of new UH-60M Black Hawks has been delivered to Army's Special Operations Aviation Support unit in Sydney.
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JOINT PROOF & EXPERIMENTAL UNIT VIDEO
PORT WAKEFIELD SA: Video: The ADF's Joint Proof & Experimental Unit has released a compilation video of some of their explosive and munitions work. |
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AUSTRALIAN RIMPAC CONTINGENT REDUCED BY 80%
HAWAII: Australia has deployed an embarrassingly small contingent to RIMPAC as the free world gathers to demonstrate solidarity against China.
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AIR & MISSILE DEFENCE PROGRAMS CANCELLED
CANBERRA: Defence has confirmed that its approved medium and long range ground based air defence missile programs have been cancelled with new programs years away.
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COLLINS UPGRADE OPTRONICS CUTS JUSTIFIED
CANBERRA: The Royal Australian Navy has justified the cancellation of the Safran Optronic optical and radar sensor suite in the Collins LOTE upgrade.
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FIJI WANTS TO BUY MORE BUSHMASTERS
FIJI: Fiji media are reporting that the Government has approved a second acquisition of Australian made Bushmaster PMV-M MRAPs.
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TWO SQUADRONS OF M1A2 ABRAMS INBOUND
USA: A trainload of brand new M1A2 SEPv3 Abrams in Australian Army markings entered a major port in California last week bound for Australia.
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ATTRITIONAL PATROL BOATS ORDERED
HENDERSON WA: The Government has contracted for two new Guardian class Patrol Boats to replace gifted hulls destroyed by Pacific Islands nations.
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HUNTER FUTURE FRIGATE BUILD UNDERWAY
OSBORNE SA: The contract is finally signed and the first steel has officially been cut on the first of six Hunter class Future Frigates.
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HALFBREED BLADES IS RELEASING A NEW CCK BLADE
AUSTRALIA: Halfbreed Blades is adding to their CCK series with a new blade, the CCK-01 XL.
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13% SF COMMON SELECTION COURSE SUCCESS
AUSTRALIA: Only 13 percent of candidates passed Special Operations Command's controversial 'Brereton' common selection course.
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RAAF WILL LAUNCH USAF HYPERSONIC MISSILE TESTS
USA: The US Govt has revealed that its top secret Hypersonic Attack Cruise Missile flight test program will be flown in Australia using RAAF fighters.
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RAN JUNIOR SAILORS COMMENCE US SSN TRAINING
USA: The first contingent of Aussie junior sailors has commenced training ahead of being assigned to US Navy Virginia class submarines.
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FIRST RAAF MQ-4C TRITON HAS ARRIVED
TINDAL NT: The first RAAF MQ-4C Triton Broad Area Maritime Surveillance drone has flown into Australia from the USA.
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DEFENCE INITIATES A PAYMENT STOP ON ARAFURA OPVs
CANBERRA: The Arafura Offshore Patrol Vessel acquisition is going from bad to worse with Defence revealing it has formally halted payments for the ships. Pic Trevor Powell
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ADF COUNTER DRONE LASER DEVELOPMENT
PUCKAPUNYAL: An Aussie start up backed by the Australian Army and RAAF has successfully demonstrated an AI driven laser system able to counter drone swarms.
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FIJI GROUNDS BRAND NEW PATROL BOAT
FIJI: The Republic of Fiji Navy has grounded a brand new patrol boat gifted by Australia in March on a remote coral reef.
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RAAF READY FOR INBOUND MQ-4C TRITON
TINDAL NT: The RAAF has an operational ground control capability ready for its its soon to arrive MQ-4C Triton Broad Area Maritime Surveillance drone.
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AS21's MK44S CANNON COMPLICATES AMMO SUPPLY
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Army will soon have two separate 30x173mm cannons in service that use two different ammunition families.
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US NAVY's ELITE VX9 F-35Cs FLY IN
WILLIAMTOWN: The US Navy has deployed a flight of F-35C carrier fighters from the elite Air Test & Evaluation Squadron 9 to Australia. Pic GEG Aviation/ Glen Greathead
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HMAS SUPPLY OUT FOR ANOTHER YEAR
SYDNEY HARBOUR: The RAN's key underway refuelling ship HMAS Supply will be out of service for at least another year.
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RGM-184A NSM INSTALLED ON RAN WARSHIPS
SYDNEY: The RGM-184A NSM surface strike missile has been integrated onto some Royal Australian Navy warships
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NO UGM-109 MISSILES FOR COLLINS SUBS
CANBERRA:The RAN has dropped plans to arm the Collins class submarines with a long range precision strike missile.
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ADF 'FIVE EYES' RECRUITMENT
CANBERRA:The Australian Defence Force has been authorised to recruit residents from New Zealand, Canada, the UK and USA to make up numbers.
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AUSTRALIAN ARMY LONG RANGE LOITERING MUNITION
CANBERRA: The Australian Army will introduce an advanced AI enabled long range autonomous loitering munition within months.
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MAJOR NEXT GENERATION JAMMER ISSUE RESOLVED
USA: The US Navy has resolved a major issue with AN/ALQ-249(V1) Next Generation Jammer - Mid Band being acquired for the RAAF's EA-18G Growler Airborne Electronic Attack aircraft.
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1ST US NAVY VISIT TO RAN'S NEW DARWIN FACILITY
DARWIN NT: The US Navy has made its first visit to the RAN's new defence controlled secure wharf facility in Darwin Harbour.
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SHEEAN, FARNCOMB & RANKIN OUT OF SERVICE
AUSTRALIA: Three of Australia's six Collins class submarines are out of service due to scheduled maintenance or urgent repair.
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AUKUS SONOBUOY DATA FUSION
USA: Advanced software that will allow Australia, the US Navy and the United Kingdom to share sonobuoy feeds is the first concrete capability to be developed under AUKUS.
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RAAF HUMANITARIAN AIRLIFT FOR PNG
PAPUA NEW GUINEA: The RAAF has conducted an emergency airlift of suport teams and aid into Papua New Guinea's remote Highlands in response to a lethal landslide.
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NO HUNTER FRIGATE BUILD CONTRACT
OSBORNE SA: Negotiations are underway, but there is still no final contract for the actual building of the RAN's Hunter class Future Frigates.
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RAN CONFIRMS RUSHED & RISKY GP FRIGATE PLAN
UNITED KINGDOM: The leaked details of the Albanese Government's rushed and reckless GP Frigate acquisition process has been confirmed by the Royal Australian Navy at a British naval conference.
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SSN AUKUS WILL BE MASSIVE
CANBERRA: The Royal Australian Navy's future SSN Aukus class nuclear powered submarines will be triple the size of the Collins and bigger than our first Virginias.
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RAEME LENDS US NAVY A HAND
TOWNSVILLE QLD: The Royal Australian Electrical & Mechanical Engineers have assisted the US Navy fit an advanced eight bladed prop to an old Hercules in Townsville.
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ARMY HIRES COMMERCIAL LANDING CRAFT
NORTHERN AUSTRALIA: The Australian Army's northern brigades are hiring commercial barges to expedite their transition to Littoral Warfare units.
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USMC F-35Bs AT TINDAL
TINDAL NT: The US Marine Corps F-35B Lightning IIs are back in Australia with VMFA 214 flying out of RAAF Tindal.
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RAAF NOUMEA EVACUATION FLIGHTS UNDERWAY
NEW CALEDONIA: The RAAF and RNZAF have commenced evacuation flights out of Noumea with more to follow.
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B737 MAX8s BOUGHT NOT LEASED
CANBERRA: The Albanese Govt has used unspent funds from cancelled weapons acquisitions to buy, not lease, its new VIP jets.
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NON COMBATANT EVACUATION MISSION PLANNING
NEW CALEDONIA: The ADF and NZDF are preparing a Non Evacuation Mission to rescue citizens caught up in the violence in New Caledonia.
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ARMY TRIES AGAIN WITH SUPACATS
DUNDEE BEACH NT: Two of the Army's very expensive and still not employed Supacat Special Operations Vehicles have emerged being trialled as artillery tow vehicles.
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ANZAC ARMY RESERVE FIELD EX
NEW ZEALAND: Australian Army Reserve infantrymen deployed to New Zealand's rugged Waiouru Military Training Area to work with their New Zealand Army Reserve Force counterparts earlier this month.
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AFGHAN INQUIRY IMPLEMENTATION OVERSIGHT PANEL REPORT LEAK
CANBERRA: The soon to be released Afghan Inquiry Implementation Oversight Panel Report explicitely reject the exoneration of senior officers for any responsibility for all incidents arising out of the original IGADF Afghan Inqiry Report.
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MORE OFFICER & SENIOR APS BLOAT IN BUDGET
CANBERRA: The Albanese Govt has funded major increases in senior ADF officer corps and public service senior positions while cutting combat units and decommissioning ships in the latest budget.
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HMAS ANZAC REFLOATED FOR DECOMMISSIONING
HENDERSON: The veteran frigate HMAS Anzac will be refloated for her decommissioning ceremony this Saturday. Pic Tim Slater
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ARMY WILL BUY NOT LEASE H135 HELOS
UNITED KINGDOM: The British Ministry of Defence has revealed it has sold not leased the small fleet of H135 helicopters to the Australian Army.
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NZ ARMY VEHICLE PROJECTS FUNDED
NEW ZEALAND: The New Zealand Government has increased defence funding and will expedite vital NZDF vehicle acquisition programs.
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OXYGEN SYSTEM UPGRADE FOR RAAF F/A-18F
USA: The US Navy has awarded contracts for upgrade kits to fix potentially dangerous crew oxygen supply systems in the RAAF's Super Hornets.
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M1150 ASSAULT BREACHER TRAINING UNDERWAY
USA: Three Townsville based Combat Engineers have graduated from the US Army's M1150 Assault Breacher Vehicle operational conversion program.
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RUSSIAN EW DEGRADES SOME KEY ADF PGMs
UKRAINE: Russian EW and ECM advances in Ukraine have degraded the effectiveness of some key Precision Guided Munitions employed by the ADF.
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FINAL eNASAMS FDC COMPLETE
AUSTRALIA: The final eNASAMS Ground Based Air Defence missile system Fire Distribution Centre is complete and will soon enter service with the Australian Army.
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SPECIAL FORCES GROUP RESUMES PARACHUTE TRAINING
NOWRA NSW: Special Forces Group has resumed parachute training at the ADF Parachuting School in place since the fatal incident of March 7.
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MORE DETAILS ON CHINESE ATTACK ON RAN HELO
YELLOW SEA: The Chinese harrassment attack on the Australian helicopter off North Korea was deliberate and conducted by one of China's most advanced combat aircraft.
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HMAS ADELAIDE VALIDATES DARWIN NAVAL BASE UPGRADE
DARWIN HARBOUR: The RAN has successfully docked a massive Canberra class Amphibious Assault ship at it's upgraded Darwin naval base.
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GERMANY ACCEPTS 1st AUSSIE DESIGNED BOXER
GERMANY: The first Aussie designed Boxer Block 2 Kampfboxer has been accepted by the German Ministry of Defence.
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AUKUS DEFENCE TECH EXPORT ALLIGNMENT
CANBERRA: Australia, the USA and UK have tabled ammendments to reduce bureaucratic costs and barriers to the trilateral development of advanced military technology.
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HMAS BALLARAT RELAUNCHED
HENDERSON WA: The RAN's current AMCAP upgrade program is progressing with the 7th Anzac frigate returned to the water after completing dry docking.
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HMAS HUON TO DECOMMISSION NEXT MONTH
SYDNEY HARBOUR: HMAS Huon, the oldest of the RAN's Huon class Mine Hunter Coastals will decommission next month.
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7TH EVOLVED CAPE CLASS PB LAUNCHED
HENDERSON WA: Austal Australia has launched the 7th new Evolved Cape class Patrol Boat from its WA facility.
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GHOST SHARK XL-AUV SEA TRIALS
USA: Anderil has disclosed that the Ghost Shark XL-AUV program is more advanced than publicly revealed with a significant sea trials program already undertaken..
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LATEST UKRAINE MILITARY ASSISTANCE
UKRAINE: Australia has announced its latest military aid assistance for Ukraine as the tactical situation erodes.
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MRF-DARWIN 2024 OSPREYS INBOUND
HAWAII: US Marine Corps MV-22B Osprey tiltrotors are heading to the Top End for this years Marine Rotational Force - Darwin deployment.
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NZ ARMY BUSHMASTER OPCON
NEW ZEALAND: The New Zealand Army is conducting its Operational Conversion to its new Aussie made Bushmaster 5.5 PMV-M vehicle fleet.
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PATROL BOAT AUTONOMY TRIALS
HENDERSON WA: The RAN's experimental prototype Autonomous Surface Vessel Sentinel has successfully completed her Sea Acceptance Trials in WA.
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80 SQUADRON RAAF RERAISED
USA: The RAAF and the Brit RAF have raised a joint squadron to support F-35 capability at Eglin AFB in Florida.
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LAST RAAF F-35A IN FLIGHT TRIALS
USA: The final RAAF F-35A has been photographed in contractor flight trials in the USA. Pic Keith Snyder
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NZ ARMY ACQUIRES NEW THERMAL SIGHTS
NEW ZEALAND: The New Zealand Army is introducing its next gen thermal imager accessory for its MARS-L weapons systems.
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ARMY 'COMBAT EQUIPMENT' DELAYS ORDERED
CANBERRA: Undisclosed Army 'combat equipment' deliveries will be delayed to find $2 billion in savings.
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AIR & MISSILE DEFENCE DOWNGRADE
CANBERRA: The Albanese Govt has decided to ignore the exo atmospheric and long range missile threats to Australia under its new National Defence Strategy policy.
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GHOST SHARK XL-AUV PROTOTYPE REVEALED
SYDNEY HARBOUR: The DSTO and Anduril have revealed the first Ghost Shark XL-AUV autonomous oceanic submersible naval system at Fleet Base East in Sydney Harbour.
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FINAL F-35A ACQUISITION DISAPPEARS
CANBERRA: The RAAF's planned expansion with additional squadron of F-35As has disappeared from the Albanese Governments just released National Defence Strategy and 2024 Integrated Investment Program.
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NATIONAL DEFENCE STRATEGY & 2024 INTEGRATED INVESTMENT PROGRAM
CANBERRA: The Albanese Governments just released National Defence Strategy and 2024 Integrated Investment Program is very vague with no new capability and few details.
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ADF & NZDF DEPLOYED TO SOLOMONS
SOLOMON ISLANDS: Substantial Australian and New Zealand military and police contingents have deployed to the Solomon Islands to support the elections delayed by anti Australian PM Sogavare.
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P-8A POSEIDON CAPABILITY EXPANSION
EDINBURGH SA: The recently contracted RAAF P-8A Poseidon upgrade is far more extensive than has been reported with exponential capability improvements.
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ISRAEL & COALITION DEFEAT IRANIAN MISSILE BOMBARDMENT
ISRAEL: The Israeli Defence Force assisted by a US led international coalition comprehensively defeated a massive Iranian missile and drone attack on the country.
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1ST RNZAF OPERATIONAL DEPLOYMENT OF P-8A
JAPAN: The RNZAF has deployed its new P-8A Poseidons for the first time to Japan to conduct surveillance of North Korean sanctions evasion for the UN.
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TRILATERAL AIR & MISSILE DEFENCE INITIATIVE
USA: The US President has announced a new trilateral program to develop a networked air and missile defence system involving the USA, Japan and Australia
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US ARMY 6.8x51mm ROLL OUT
USA: The US Army has commenced its trial operational conversion to the new 6.8mm NGSW XM-7and XM-250 weapons, forcing the Australian Army to develop options.
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US NAVY ADOPTS RAAF GROWLER ARMAMENT
USA: A US Navy has adopted the RAAF long term practice of arming their Growlers with the latest AIM-9X Sidewinder WVRAAM missile systems.
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AUSTRALIAN BASED SSN MAINTENANCE
ROCKINGHAM WA: A US Navy nuclear powered attack submarine will undergo a 'significant' maintenance program in Australia for the first time later this year.
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NEXT CHIEF OF DEFENCE FORCE ANNOUNCED
CANBERRA: The Government has announced that Vice Admiral David Johnston will replace the controversial General Angus Campbell as Australia's next Chief of Defence Force.
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HMAS HOBART DEPLOYS ON OP ARGOS
PACIFIC OCEAN: HMAS Hobart is steaming north to Japan to conduct North Korean sanctions evasion surveillance for the UN and other naval engagement activities under RPD 24.2.
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MINISTER HINTS AT MAJOR DEFENCE PROGRAM CUTS
SYDNEY: The Minister of Defence has hinted that their are more major defence program cuts, reductions and delays coming particularly for Army and the RAAF.
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HMAS ANZAC DECOMMISSIONING DATE CONFIRMED
ROCKINGHAM WA: The Royal Australian Navy has officially confirmed the date and location of HMAS Anzac's formal decommissioning service.
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TR3 UPGRADE OF INSERVICE RAAF F-35As DELAYED
USA: The planned upgrade of the RAAF's already delivered F-35A's to the next configuration has been delayed by the F-35 Joint Project Office due to issues with component supply and systems certification.
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ARMY ACQUIRES BRIT APACHES
UNITED KINGDOM: The Australian Army has acquired two former British Army WAH-64 Apache airframes to convert into training aids.
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RAN & RAAF TO JOIN PHILIPPINE FONOP
PHILIPPINE WATERS: HMAS Warramunga and an RAAF aircraft will join the US Navy, Japanese Maritime Self Defence Force and Philippine Navy in a quadrilateral Freedom of Navigation Operations in the South China Sea.
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NEW RAAF VIP JET IN FLIGHT TRIALS
USA: The first of the RAAF's new fleet of leased airliners for the VIP 'Special Purpose Aircraft' mission is in contractor flight trials at Boeing. Video still capture Aero Productions
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2/5 MARINES KICK OFF DRY SEASON DEPLOYMENT
DARWIN NT: The lead elements of Marine Rotational Force - Darwin 2024 have commenced preliminary training in the Northern Territory.
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AUSSIE MMRC CRAFT ACQUIRED BY USMC
USA: The Australian made Whiskey Multi Mission Reconnaissance Craft has been acquired by the USMC under its Expeditionary Small Boats program.
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HUNTSMAN SPA PRODUCTION UNDERWAY
REPUBLIC OF KOREA: The first of the Australian Army's future 155mm Huntsman Self Propelled Artillery systems are under assembly in South Korea.
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RAN & RAAF IN US NAVY MISSILE INTERCEPTION EX
HAWAII: An Australian frigate and E-7A Wedgetail participated in a successful ballistic missile interception live fire exercise off Hawaii yesterday.
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AUSSIE & NZ SOF IN NEW CALEDONIA
NEW CALEDONIA: Australian, US Army and New Zealand Special Operations elements deployed to New Caledonia for the French SF led Exercise Thalawan.
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NZDF DEPLOYS MRV & HELOS TO SOLOMON ISLANDS
PACIFIC OCEAN: New Zealand has deployed its largest sealift warship and an aviation contingent to support the Solomon Island's delayed national elections.
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MQ-28A GHOST BAT FACTORY BUILD
TOOWOOMBA QLD: Construction of the Boeing Defence Australia factory which will produce the MQ-28A Ghost Bat CCA has commenced in Queensland.
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MAJOR RAN DARWIN BASE UPGRADE OPERATIONAL
DARWIN NT: The RAN can now support major warships from its HMAS Coonawarra in central Darwin with the openning of a huge new naval wharf at Larrakeyah.
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AUKUS SSN INDUSTRIAL DETAILS
AUSTRALIA: Initial details of the industrial specifics of the Aukus class nuclear submarine acquisition and the workshare between Australia and its US and UK partners has emerged.
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GERMAN BUNDESTAG APPROVES AUSSIE BUILT BOXER BUY
GERMANY: The German parliament has formerly approved the acquisition of a large fleet of Australian made turreted Boxer Block II combat vehicles for the Deutsches Heer.
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RAAF P-8A OPERATING INTO REUNION ISLAND
REUNION ISLAND: An RAAF Poseidon has been refuelled at the remote French Indian Ocean territory of Reunion Island under the France Australia reciprocal access agreement arrangments .
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6 AVN REGT UH-60M BLACK HAWK SPEC OPS TRAINING
HOLSWORTHY NSW: Video: Special Operations Command - Australia has released the first video B Roll of Aussie Special Operations personnel fast roping from a new UH-60M Black Hawk. |
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RNZN SPECIALIST BOARDING PARTY ON BRIT OPV
FIJI: A specialist RNZN boarding team is embarked on a Brit Offshore Patrol Vessel conducting a combined fisheries protection deployment in Fijian waters.
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'UNFORESEEN COMPLICATIONS' DOG MC-55A
AUSTRALIA: Airframe reengineering due to the MC-55A Peregrine's extensive modifications have resulted in 'unforeseen complications' to finalising the advanced Special Electronic Missions Aircraft. Pic SR_Planespotter
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ANZAC MINE COUNTERMEASURES EXERCISE
EDEN NSW: Elite Australian and New Zealand naval Clearance Divers are exercising Mine Countermeasures in southern New South Wales waters.
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VARIANTS COULD DELAY BOXER FOC
BRISBANE: Delays in the systems design and demonstration program for the Recovery and Repair variants of the Australian Army's next gen Boxer Block II will likely delay Final Operating Capability of the new CRV.
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LOS ANGELES CLASS SSN AT FLEET BASE WEST
ROCKINGHAM WA: Another US Navy nuclear powered attack submarine has berthed at the RAN's Fleet Base West in Western Australia in the work up towards SURF-West deployment.
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RAAF F-35A DELIVERIES STILL FROZEN
USA: The delivery of the RAAF's final F-35A Lightning II Joint Strike Fighters is now predicted to be in the final months of this year as the F35 Program Office acceptance halt remains in place.
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POTENTIAL GBAD RANGE & ALTITUDE EXPANSION
NORWAY: The validation of extended range air interception missiles from the NASAMS Ground Based Air Defence System have enormous potential for the Australian Army's introduction of its Enhanced NASAMS missile system.
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HMAS CHOULES RADAR SYSTEM UPGRADE
AUSTRALIA: The RAN's Landing Ship Dock HMAS Choules emerged after the Xmas holidays with an advance Active Phased Array Radar suite integrated into her superstructure.
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HAWKEI PMV-L UNDER ASSESSMENT IN JAPAN
JAPAN: The Australian designed and manufactured Hawkei PMV-L armoured vehicle has been shortlisted for the Japanese Ground Self Defence Force's LAV replacement program.
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EX ADF SUPACATS IN COMBAT IN UKRAINE
UKRAINE: Reports and imagery emerging from Ukraine confirm that ex Special Operations Command - Australia Supacats are in combat in Ukraine.
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PNGDF LONG RANGE RECONNAISSANCE UNIT
AUSTRALIA: Papua New Guinea Defence Force elite Special Operations personnel are in Australia undergoing training under the long running defence cooperation program.
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RNZAF CONSIDERING SH-2G(I) EARLY RETIREMENT
NEW ZEALAND: The New Zealand Defence Force is considering retiring its SH-2G(I) helo fleet to meet the Luxon Government defence funding cuts.
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1st USAF KC-46A DEPLOYMENT TO AMBERLEY
AMBERLEY QLD: The US Air Force has completed its first rotation of its new KC-46A Pegasus air to air refuelling tankers into RAAF Amberley.
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IRST21 OPERATIONAL TEST SYSTEMS FOR RAAF
USA: The US Navy has ordered advanced testing equipment to support the soon to enter service AN/ASG-34A(V) Infrared Search and Track Systems on the RAAF's F/A-18F fleet.
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ISRAELI DIGITAL SYSTEMS FOR REDBACK TURRET
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Army's future AS21 Redback IFV will field predominantly Israeli digital combat, survivability and surveillance systems.
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US NAVY CUTS VIRGINIA SSGN REQUEST
USA: The US Navy has reduced its 2025 budget request for Virginia class nuclear submarines which may complicate Australia's plans to introduce the type in eight years.
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NARCO SUB INTERDICTION
COLOMBIA: The Armada de Colombia has intercepted and seized a sophisticated cocaine smuggling platform that was bound for Australia.
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GP FRIGATE BUY RISKY
CANBERRA: The promised Enhanced Lethality Surface Combatant Fleet program's fast tracked General Purpose Frigate buy is laden with massive risk of digital compatibility issues and potentially huge hidden costs.
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RAN PATROL BOAT FLEET RATIONALISED
CANBERRA: The RAN's border and constabulatory force will be reduced in numbers and capability to focus on the priority Enhanced Lethality Surface Combatant Fleet.
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FUTURE GENERAL PURPOSE FRIGATE
CANBERRA: A proposed fleet of 11 future General Purpose Frigates will be fast tracked into service as the Tier 2 component of the RAN's future Enhanced Lethality Surface Combatant Fleet.
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SURFACE COMBAT FLEET REVIEW DETAILS
CANBERRA: The Government response to the Hilarides Surface Combat Fleet Review has been released with immediate deep cuts to warships but a promise of a much larger fleet in the mid to late 2030s.
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MORE DETAILS OF CHINESE SONAR ATTACK
CANBERRA: More details of the dangerous Chinese Navy sonar attack on Royal Australian Navy personnel during UNSCR operations off North Korea were revealed in Senate Estimates hearings.
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FIRST RNZAF C-130J-30 HERC ROLLS OUT
USA: New Zealand's first complete new C-130J-30 Hercules airlifter has emerged from Lockheed Martin's production facility in Georga USA.
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ARAFURA OPVs DELIVERY RESCHEDULED AGAIN
AUSTRALIA: The RAN's Introduction into Service of its problematic Arafura class Offshore Patrol Vessels has been further delayed with rescheduling to later this year. Pic Trevor Powell
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HMAS SUPPLY REPAIR COMPLETE NEXT MONTH
AUSTRALIA: HMAS Supply's 14 month long propulsion shaft repair is approaching completion with the ship due to return to the water next month.
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HMAS ANZAC IS UNDERGOING 'ASSESSMENT'
AUSTRALIA: Chief of Navy has confirmed that the RAN's only warship to have fired her weapons in anger is currently dry docked and under threat of early decommissioning.
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ENASAMS GBAD DELAYED BUT STILL ON TRACK
AUSTRALIA: The latest ANAO Major Project Report reveals further delays to the Australian Army's next generation Short Range Ground Based Air Defence but delivers a 100% Green assessment of the project.
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BOXER BLOCK II LANCE 2 TURRET
GERMANY: Australian Army Boxer Combat Reconnaissance Vehicle specialists travelled to Germany to work with Rheinmetall on the next generation Boxer turret system.
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SOUTH CHINA SEA FONOP
SOUTH CHINA SEA: An RAN warship participated in a trilateral Freedom of Navigation operation in the South China Sea in defiance of Chinese demands.
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FUNDING FOR MQ-28A GHOST BAT UCAV
AUSTRALIA: New funding has been allocated to the Ghost Bat Collaborative Combat Aircraft's (CCA) ongoing Systems Design and Development (SDD) program by the Department of Defence.
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RAAF HUNTS WITH RAPTORS OVER HAWAII
HAWAII: An RAAF E-7A played a key role in US Indo Pacific Command's cutting edge Ex Sentry Aloha 24 alongside the US militaries most advanced and classified systems.
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RAAF DEPLOYS ON NORTH KOREA SANCTIONS MISSION
JAPAN: The RAAF has deployed another P-8A Poseidon to Japan to conduct surveillance of North Korean sanctions evasion for the United Nations Security Council.
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ARMY'S NEW M1A2 ABRAMS INBOUND
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Army will have its hands on its first next generation Abrams M1A2 SEPv3 Main Battle Tanks as early as next month.
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ARMY'S UH-60M BLACK HAWK DELIVERIES
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Army will have to wait more than six years for all of its Black Hawks, but a squadron's worth should be flying locally by the end of this year.
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ARMY TO FILL MRH-90 VOID WITH NEW HELOS
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Army has fast tracked efforts to fill the void left by the scrapping of the MRH-90 fleet by introducing interim light tactical helicopters.
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RAAF P-8A POSEIDON INCREMENT 3 RETROFIT A KITS
USA: The RAAF's upgrade of its P-8A Poseidon MMMAs to the latest Increment III configuration is underway with additional Retrofit A Kits under contract.
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MARK 54 MOD 2 ADVANCED LIGHTWEIGHT TORPEDO
USA: Australia's participation in the US Navy's Advanced Lightweight Torpedo development program may soon bear fruit under the USN's expedited Early Operational Capability schedule.
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REPORTS OF CIWS FIRST COMBAT KILL
RED SEA: US based media are reporting the US Navy has employed the Mk15 Blk 1B BL 2 20mm gun to destroy a Houthi 'cruise missile' marking the type's combat validation and good news for RAN and RNZN.
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NO QLD BASED BLACK HAWKS NEXT YEAR
OAKEY QLD: New UH-60M Black Hawks will not be flying out of the Australian Army Aviation Training Centre at Oakey in southeast Qld next year.
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EXERCISE BAMBOO EAGLE 24
USA: The RAAF is participating in the highly classified AUKUS only Exercise Bamboo Eagle designed to test and verify air combat tactics for a future Indo Pacific conflict.
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ANOTHER TINY RAAF CONTINGENT FOR COPE NORTH
GUAM: The RAAF has only deployed a single transport aircraft to Guam for what was the premier high level trilateral USAF/Japan/Australia air combat training event.
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INDO PACIFIC REGIONAL PRESENCE DEPLOYMENT 2024.1
PACIFIC OCEAN: The Royal Australian Navy has deployed its first warship for 2024 on the Indo Pacific Regional Presence Deployment operational cycle.
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AUSTRALIA JOINS PrSM INC 3 & INC 4 PROGRAMS
CANBERRA: The government has confirmed that Australia has joined the US Army's PrSM Increment 3 and Increment 4 missile programs.
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RAAF's LRIP 15 LIGHTNING II's DELAYED AGAIN
USA: Delivery of the RAAF's last few F-35As has been rescheduled again as Lockheed Martin struggles to complete its TR3 upgrade certification.
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RNZN TO DEPLOY TINY TEAM TO BAHRAIN
NEW ZEALAND: The Royal New Zealand Navy will mirror Australia's tiny contribution to Op Prosperity Guardian in the Red Sea.
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MARINE ROTATIONAL FORCE - DARWIN WORKS UP
USA: US Marine Corps combat elements have been training hard in the working up exercises at Camp Pendleton in California for deployment to the Northern Territory with MRF-D 24.
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PRIME MINISTER RECOMMITS TO DEFENCE
CANBERRA: Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has committed to refocusing on Defence as one of the key policies of his government after growing criticism over the loss of capability and capacity.
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AARGM-ER INTEGRATION FOR RAAF F-35A
USA: The Australia Canada United Kingdom Reprogramming Lab is working on AARGM-ER integration onto RAAF F-35As.
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227mm GMLARS MUNITION PRODUCTION
CANBERRA: The Department of Defence has contracted Lockheed Martin Australia to assemble an initial batch of 227mm GMLARS long range precision artillery munitions.
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GOVT REAFFIRMS PrSM INCREMENT 1 ACQUISITION
CANBERRA: The Australian Government has reconfirmed its commitment to the cutting edge PrSM long range strike missile for the Australian Army.
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EX AUSSIE ARMY M113AS4 ALV IN UKRAINE
UKRAINE: An ex Australian Army ALV has been active in close combat with the AFU on Ukraine's frontlines.
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EX RED FLAG 2024-1
USA: The RAAF has flown into Las Vegas Nevada for the high level AUKUS partner only air ex Ex Red Flag 2024-1.
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US GOVT APPROVES ADDITIONAL TOMAHAWK TLAM SUPPORT
USA: The US Government has approved additional support systems to enable the RGM-109E Tomahawk TLAM introduction into RAN service.
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7RAR ASSUMES UKRAINE TRAINING MISSION
AUSTRALIA: Adelaide based 7RAR has taken over the Op Kudu training team mission training Ukrainian infantry in England.
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RAN ANZAC 127mm GUN UPGRADES
USA: All Anzac frigate Mark 45 127mm turreted guns will be upgraded to Mark 45 Mod 4 configuration under a new contract with BAE Systems.
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NZ ARMY ACQUIRING VTOL TUAS
New Zealand: The New Zealand Army is acquiring an advanced Euro VTOL ISR and target acquisition MTUAS along with a suite of close combat drones.
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GOVT PAYS FIRST SERVICE RETENTION BONUS
AUSTRALIA: The Department of Defence has commenced paying retention bonuses to personnel completing their initial service periods.
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USAF FLYING CCA TRIALS WITH MQ-28A
USA: The US Air Force has confirmed it is flying its Collaborative Combat Aircraft trials with Aussie made MQ-28As.
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TINY RAN CONTINGENT FOR PROSPERITY GUARDIAN
AUSTRALIA: Defence Minister Richard Marles has revealed Australia will send an embarrassingly small contingent of HQ staff to support international Red Sea ops.
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RAN CONTINGENT FOR RED SEA - REPORTS
AUSTRALIA: Media outlets are reporting that Australia will deploy a small land based contingent but no warships to the Red Sea.
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TUAS WEAPONS DEPLOYMENT VALIDATED
USA: Flight trials have validated the Australian Army's new Integrator TUAS can be armed with advanced Miniature Precision Munitions.
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OP KUDU TRAINING TEAM EXPANSION
UNITED KINGDOM: The Australian Army's Operation Kudu training teams to prepare Ukrainian soldiers will be enlarged next year.
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US SENATE PASSES AUKUS LEGISLATION
USA: The US Senate has passed the 2024 National Defense Authorisation Bill authorising the AUKUS SSN sales to Australia.
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RED SEA WARSHIP REQUEST
AUSTRALIA: Media reports claim that Australia has been asked to deploy a warship to protect shipping from Houthi missile attacks in the Red Sea.
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F-35 UNITED OPERATIONAL TEST TEAM
USA: Australia and the United Kingdom are partners in the US military led F-35 United Operational Test Team which will control future F-35 technical evolution.
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LEAD KC-30A CRYPTO UPGRADE COMPLETE
AMBERLEY: The lead aircraft in the RAAF's Crypto Remediation Project upgrade has returned to Amberley from Spain.
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PrSM PRECISION STRIKE MISSILE ENTERS US ARMY SERVICE
USA: The US Army has accepted its first delivery of the Precision Strike Missile Increment 1 long range tactical missile system.
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RAAF RETIRES ITS AP-3C (EW) ORION FLEET
EDINBURGH SA: The RAAF's highly classifed AP-3C (EW) electronic warfare aircraft have flown their final mission and the type is now formally retired.
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FIRST RNZAF C-130J-30 PAINTED
USA: The first of New Zealand's new C-130J-30 'Super Hercules' airlifters is now painted and ready for final advanced systems integration.
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AS21 REDBACK CONTRACT SIGNED
GEELONG VIC: The contract to build the AS21 Redback Infantry Fighting Vehicle has been signed at a ceremony this morning.
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MIL RECIPROCAL ACCESS AGREEMENT WITH FRANCE
NEW CALEDONIA: Australia and France are finalising a reciprocal access agreement to allow forces to operate into and out of others military facilities.
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RNZN UNMANNED SURFACE VESSEL TRIALS
SYDNEY: The Royal New Zealand Navy has leased an Bluebottle Unmanned Surface Vessel to conduct trials on the capability.
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155mm HUNTSMAN LIVE FIRE TRIALS IN SA
PORT WAKEFIELD SA: Army is firing hundreds of 155mm rounds through an AS9 Huntsman trials vehicle in South Australia.
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HMNZS TE MANA LAUNCHES SEA CEPTORS
TASMAN SEA NSW: HMNZS Te Mana has successfully launched Sea Ceptor missiles during live fire missile trials in the East Australia Exercise Area off New South Wales.
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AUKUS SURF-WEST SSN MAINTENANCE PREP
ROCKINGHAM WA: US Navy training of RAN technical specialists to support US Navy powered submarines in Western Australia will commence in 2024.
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HUNTER FFG PRELIMINARY DESIGN REVIEW COMPLETE
AUSTRALIA: BAE Systems Australia has announced it has completed the Preliminary Design Review on the Hunter class Future Frigate.
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BRITS JOIN EX GLOBAL DEXTERITY 23-2
AMBERLEY QLD: A British C-17A Globemaster III will participate in the formerly bilateral USAF/RAAF Global Dexterity airlift interoperability training program.
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LARGE EU COMBAT AIR DEPLOYMENT IN 2024
EUROPEAN UNION: France, Germany and Spain are planning a massive Combined Expeditionary Air Wing deployment to Australia next year.
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RAN PHILIPPINE COOPERATIVE ACTIVITY
PHILIPPINES: HMAS Toowoomba has conducted a combined naval presence mission with the Philippine Navy to demonstrate Australia's support for the Philippines' territorial integrity.
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REPORTS OF RAN TAIWAN STRAIT WARSHIP TRANSIT
TAIWAN: The Taiwanese Defence Ministery has reported that an 'Australian warship' conducted a transit of the Taiwan Strait in defiance of China's demands.
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TWO MORE EVOLVED CAPE CLASS PATROL BOATS
CANBERRA: The RAN will acquire two additional Evolved Cape class Patrol Boats to renew its Navigation Training Vessel capability.
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BIRDON MEDIUM LANDING CRAFT TO REPLACE LCM8
CANBERRA: The Birdon Medium Landing Craft design has been selected to replace the venerable LCM8 under Project Land 8710/1A.
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2ND OPV LAUNCHED WITHOUT VIABLE ARMAMENT
OSBORNE SA: The second Arafura class OPV was launched without any viable armament and the issue seemingly still unresolved.
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NZSAS SPECIAL RECOVERY EXERCISE
NEW ZEALAND: The 1st New Zealand Special Air Service has completed a complex air mobile 'Special Recovery' exercise across New Zealand's South Island.
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CHINESE EW ATTACK ON RAN DIVERS
JAPANESE WATERS: A Chinese destroyer made a deliberate electronic attack that injured Australian divers from HMAS Toowoomba deployed on a United Nations mission.
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ENHANCED NASAMS FIVE MISSILE LIVE FIRE
WOOMERA: The Army has validated its Enhanced NASAMS ground based air defence system shooting down five target drones.
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TACTICAL TARGETING NETWORK TECHOLOGY UPGRADE
USA: The US Navy has finalised contracts for TTNT upgrade A Kits for the RAAF's EA-18G Growlers and F/A-18F Rhinos within the Growler Block II and Super Hornet Block III upgrades.
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DETAILS OF RAAF E-7A UKRAINE SUPPORT OPS
POLAND: Flight tracker software apps have revealed details of the RAAF's airborne surveillance mission in support of the NATO resupply effort for Ukraine.
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RAAF REVEALS LIVE GBU-39/B DELIVERY
TINDAL NT: The RAAF has revealed its employment of live GBU-39/B All Up Rounds for the first time in a recent imagery release.
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HUNTER FRIGATE 127mm GUN BUY
USA: The Hunter class Future Frigates' 127mm primary turreted naval gun system contracts have been finalised.
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ADF FINALLY RELEASES UH-60M IMAGERY
HOLSWORTHY NSW: The ADF has finally released some month old imagery of its new UH-60M Black Hawks in flight - three and a half months after delivery.
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SIAF EXPANSION TO SUPPORT PACIFIC GAMES
SOLOMON ISLANDS: RAAF airlifters and RAN ships have delivered more personnel and equipment to the Solomons ahead of the Pacific Games set to kick off this weekend.
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HMAS STALWART CONDUCTS FIRST DOUBLE RAS
PHILIPPINE SEA: The Supply class AOR HMAS Stalwart has conducted her first double refuelling with HMAS Brisbane and HMAS Toowoomba during RPD 23-4.
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RAAF MQ-4C TRITON FLYING IN USA
USA: The first flight of an Australian MQ-4C Triton BAMS drone has been revealed on flight trackers over California this morning.
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HUNTER CLASS MISSILE BOAT CONCEPT
AUSTRALIA: BAE Systems Australia has unvieled an 'Enhanced Surface Strike' variant of the Hunter class Future Frigate packed with advanced missiles.
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MQ-4C TRITON SUSTAINMENT CONTRACTS
AUSTRALIA: Interim maintenance and parts supply contracts for the RAAF near future MQ-4C Triton reconnaissance drones have been finalised with Northop Grumman Australia.
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FIRST NAVAL STRIKE MISSILES IN 2024
AUSTRALIA: The Royal Australian Navy is expecting its first All Up Rounds of the advanced and stealthy Naval Strike Missiles next year.
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HMAS STUART RETURNS TO SERVICE
ROCKINGHAM WA: The Anzac class frigate HMAS Stuart is in the final phase of trails and evaluations after her AMCAP upgrade.
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HAWKEI BRAKE ISSUE UNRESOLVED
CANBERRA: The introduction of the Australian Army's Hawkei PMV-L is moving extremely slowly due to failure to find and fix the ABS braking system fault.
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UNDERSEA SUPPORT SHIP ENTERS SERVICE
SYDNEY HARBOUR: The Royal Australian Navy's new Undersea Support Ship ADV Guidance has arrived At Fleet Base East in Sydney Harbour.
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MRH-90 SAFETY RISK REPORT DISCLOSED
AUSTRALIA: The MRH-90's pilot helmet vision systems were potentially dangerous according to a series of AAAvn tech reports issued in 2020 and 2021.
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USMC MRF-DARWIN 23 FAREWELL VIDEO
DARWIN NT: Video: Marine Rotational Force - Darwin 2023 have uploaded a farewell video to honour their six month tour. |
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RAAF DEVELPING DISPERSED OPS TTPs
AUSTRALIA: The RAAF is experimenting with new technologies and in situ resources to allow it to employ bush airstrips and even highways as Forward Arming & Refuelling Points.
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NEW ZEALAND NEW LITTORAL MANOEUVRE CRAFT
NEW ZEALAND: The RNZN's new high speed Littoral Manoeuvre Craft will allow it to deliver divers, troops and mine counter measures on military operations.
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ADF RECRUITING BELOW TARGETS
CANBERRA: Australian Defence Force recruiting programs have not achieved anywhere near their required targets for new soldiers, sailors or aviators.
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RAAF E-7A SUPPORTS USAF AIR WEAPONS SCHOOL
LAS VEGAS USA: An RAAF E-7A Wedgetail is supporting the USAF's elite Air Weapons School training program.
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RAAF C-130J HERCS TO MIDDLE EAST
MIDDLE EAST: Two additional RAAF airlifters and an Army contingent has been forward deployed to the Middle East as a contingeny force to evacauate citizens from Israel and Gaza.
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SOUTH CHINA SEA NAVAL ACTIVITY
SOUTH CHINA SEA: The RAN has joined a package of warships from the US, NZ, Canada and Japan to transit the South China Sea in defiance of Chinese demands.
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BERSAMA LIMA 23
MALAYSIA: Photofeature. The RAAF deployed Super Hornets and KC-30A tankers to RMAF Butterworth to train with the Brits, Singaporeans and Malaysians.
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PT WILSON EXPLOSIVE ORDNANCE PIER
CORIO BAY VIC: The Dept of Defence's Point Wilson Explosive Ordnance Pier has resumed operations after a major renovation program.
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WEDGETAIL DEPLOYS ON OP KUDU
GERMANY: An RAAF E-7A has deployed to Germany to support the NATO military support mission for Ukraine.
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USN ROBOTIC FLEET OFF QUEENSLAND
CORAL SEA: A US Navy AI controlled fleet of four medium and large unmanned surface vessels is transiting along Qld's coast.
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ARAFURA OPV ON CONCERN LIST
AUSTRALIA: The Department of Defence has formally placed the problematic Luerssen Australia run Offshore Patrol Vessel project on the Projects of Concern list.
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ARMY MORALE UNDER PRESSURE
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Army is shrinking under the combined influence of post pandemic anger, IGADF persecution and the Albanese Government's active cuts to units and weapons.
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ITALY TO DEPLOY LARGE AIR COMBAT ELEMENT
AUSTRALIA: The Italian Aeronautica Militare and Marina Militare will deploy a large air combat package and an aircraft carrier to Australia next year.
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OP BEECH EVAC FLIGHTS END
ISRAEL: The Royal Australian Air Force airlift of Australians and partner citizens out of Israel has been completed.
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AUSSIE LOITERING MUNITION LONG RANGE STRIKE
AUSTRALIA: Insitu Pacific and Innovaero are proposing a partnered long range loitering munition precision strike capability to the Australian Army.
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ADV CAPE PILLAR ENTERS SERVICE
AUSTRALIA: The Royal Australian Navy has accepted the Evolved Cape class Patrol Boat ADV Cape Pillar into service.
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ARMY RESERVE RESUMES SECURITY FOCUS
AUSTRALIA: The Army Reserve will return to its traditional domestic security focus with defined northern and offshore responsibilities under the current reorganisation.
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NAVAL LOGISTICS AIRDROP
AT SEA: The ADF has revived its Maritime Air Delivery naval logistics air drop capacity with an exercise involving C-130J Hercs and HMAS Warramunga.
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LOCAL PRODUCTION OF 30x173mm MUNITIONS
BENALLA VIC: Production of 30x173mm cannon munitions for Army's Boxer CRVs is underway at Benalla Munitions Facility.
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MARINES COMPLETE MRFD23 ROTATION
DARWIN NT: Marine Rotational Force - Darwin 2023 has completed its six month deployment and is returning home to the USA.
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HIMARS OPERATIONAL CONVERSION BEGINS IN 2024
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Army will begin Operational Conversion to the M142 HIMARS and stand up its first artillery rocket regiment next year.
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ARMY REDUCTION STILL NOT CLEAR
CANBERRA: The Albanese Government's statement detailing the major cuts to the Army have raised as many questions as it provided answers for.
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FIRST RNZAF C-130J-30 ROLLS OUT
USA: The first of the RNZAF's next generation C-130J-30 Hercules has rolled off the Lockheed Martin production line.
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AERIAL BOMB UNIT PRODUCTION TO INCREASE
AUSTRALIA: Upgrades at Mulwala and Benalla will facilitate local production of BLU-111 (Aus) and BLU-117 (Aus) bomb units for the RAAF.
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SURFACE FLEET REPORT LEAK CLAIMS
CANBERRA: A major media outlet has reported that the Hilarides Surface Fleet Report recommends slashing the RAN's problematic Hunter Future Frigate program.
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REPORT IDENTIFIES LANDING CRAFT VULNERABILITY
USA: A US Navy commissioned report has identified the extreme vulnerability of landing craft with massive implications for the Australian Army's new littoral operations focus.
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BAE SYSTEMS CONTRACTED FOR SSN AUKUS DESIGN
UNITED KINGDOM: The UK Government has contracted BAE Systems to complete the SSN Aukus design and commence the acquisition of long lead equipment for the boats.
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F-35 JSE COMBAT SIMULATIONS FINALLY COMPLETE
USA: The F-35 Joint Simulation Environment synthetic combat trials have been completed paving the way for Full Rate Production.
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ARMY WITHDRAWS MRH-90 FROM SERVICE
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Army has withdrawn the problematic MRH90 helicopter from service after years of non performance, nightmare costs and lives lost.
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3RAR TO OPERATE AS21 REDBACK
TOWNSVILLE: The 3rd Battalion will soldier on as the Australian Army's only mechanised infantry unit and eventually re equip with the Redback IFV.
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ARMY STRIPPED TO THE BONE
CANBERRA: The Albanese Government is radically reducing the Australian Army's combat power with the new Order of Battle far more restricted than predicted.
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OP KUDU AUSSIE TRAINING TEAM FOR UKRAINE
UNITED KINGDOM: Video: The Australian Army's Op Kudu Training Team remains active training Ukrainian infantry in England. |
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TWO MORE ARMIDALE PBs DECOMMISSIONING
DARWIN: The RAN will decommission two more of its Armidale class Patrol Boats at HMAS Coonawarra.
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HMAS FARNCOMB FIRE
AT SEA: An electrical fire occured on the RAN's Collins class submarine HMAS Farncomb while she was underway.
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ARMY CUTS RUMOURS FIRMING
CANBERRA: A major media outlet report has confirmed A&NZD's early reports of major cuts to the Australian Army's order of Battle.
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US ARMY NEXT GEN SQUAD WEAPON ROLLOUT
USA: The first US Army unit to re equip with the new Next Generation Squad Weapon small arms has commenced its operational conversion.
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REGIONAL PRESENCE DEPLOYMENT 2023
AUSTRALIA: The Royal Australian Navy has deployed two more warships for extensive cooperative activity in the Indo Pacific.
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EXERCISE BUSHIDO GUARDIAN 2023 AERIALS
JAPAN: Photo feature. Outstanding aerial imagery of Australian and Japanese F-35A Lightning IIs, F-15Js and F-15DJs and F-2A fighters has emerged from Bushido Guardian.
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EXERCISE WANTOK WARRIOR 2023
PAPUA NEW GUINEA: Townsville based Diggers from 3RAR and 3CER travelled to Wewak in PNG to train with the 2nd Bn Royal Pacific Islands Regiment early this month.
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RAN SURFACE FLEET REVIEW RESPONSE NEXT YEAR
CANBERRA: The Government will release its naval strategy for the surface fleet early next year after evaluating the Hilarides Surface Fleet Review.
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4TH MQ-4C TRITON FOR RAAF
CANBERRA: The RAAF has contracted for a fourth MQ-4C Triton Broad Area Maritime Surveillance drone after a two year halt in buys.
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ARMY DSR CUTS REORGANISATION DELAYS
CANBERRA: The Albanese Government has not yet disclosed its planned cuts to the Army, three weeks after halting the public disclosure.
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RAAF F-35As DEPLOY TO INDONESIA
INDONESIA: The RAAF has deployed a contingent of F-35A Lightning IIs to Indonesia for the very first time.
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NEW FOREIGN TRAINING & ADVISING LAWS
CANBERRA: The Government is introducing new legislation to criminalise former Defence personnel training or advising non Five Eyes military forces without formal approval.
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HMAS ANZAC RETURNS TO AUSTRALIA
ROCKINGHAM WA: HMAS Anzac has returned home after five months of exercises in southeast asia and sanctions enforcement operations off North Korea.
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US ARMY PREPOSITIONED EQUIPMENT SITE ACTIVATED
BANDIANA VIC: Hundreds of US Army vehicles and containers are arriving at the Albury Wodonga Military Area for long term prepositioning.
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NZ SHOPPING FOR NEW WARSHIPS
NEW ZEALAND: The NZ Dept of Defence has issued a Request For Information to industry seeking a next generation fleet of surface combatants and patrol vessels.
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EX BUSHIDO GUARDIAN - EAGLES & LIGHTNINGS
JAPAN: Australian F-35A Lightnings are training with their Japanese counterparts in Japan for the first time.
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US NAVY RELOADS MISSILE IN AUSTRALIA
EDEN NSW: The US Navy has successfully reammunitioned a warship with a missile in Australia for the first time.
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US ARMY ABANDONS M1A2 UPGRADE FOR MAJOR REDESIGN
USA: The US Army is radically changing its plans for its M1A2 Abrams in ways that could impact the Australian Army.
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RAAF F-35A ACCEPTANCE DELAYED
USA: The acceptance of new RAAF F-35As is being held up by software issues with the latest configuration of the Lightning II.
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NEXT GENERATION JAMMER - LOW BAND
USA: The Next Generation Jammer - Low Band is progressing which is great news for the RAAF's Advanced Growler Airborne Electronic Attack Capability upgrade.
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EXTENDED RANGE HIMARS ARTILLERY ROCKET
USA: Successful trials launches of the next generation Extended Range GMLRS munitions promise to exponentially improve the Australian Army's near future M142 HIMARS.
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AUST ARMY ABRAMS IN INDONESIA
INDONESIA: 1st Armoured Regiment Abrams have trained in Indonesia, the second international deployment of the tanks in two weeks.
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AUST ARMY SUPPORTING US ARMY LOGISTICS
AUSTRALIA: A major combined US Army and Australian Army logistics activity surrounding Talisman Sabre and linked events has stress tested war fighting supply systems.
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SOUTH CHINA SEA COMBINED NAVAL ACTIVITY
SOUTH CHINA SEA: The Royal Australian Navy, Japanese Maritime Self Defence Force and US Navy conducted a combined passage through the South China Sea in defiance of Chinese claims.
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EXERCISE BUSHIDO GUARDIAN
JAPAN: The RAAF has deployed F-35A Lightning IIs to central Japan to train with the Japanese Air Self Defence Force within Ex Bushido Guardian.
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RAAF P-8A ON DPRK SANCTIONS ENFORCEMENT OPS
JAPAN: Another RAAF P-8A Poseidon has deployed to Japan to conduct surveillance of North Korean UNSCR sanctions evasion.
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RWM ITALIA SEAMINE ACQUISITION
CANBERRA: The Dept of Defence has finalised the contract for advanced RWM Italia multi influence seamines.
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MEDIUM RANGE GROUND BASED AIR DEFENCE
CANBERRA: The ADF's Medium Range Ground Based Air Defence program has been been fast tracked after recieving First Pass Approval.
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JAPANESE F-35A DEPLOYMENT
TINDAL NT: The inaugural Japanese F-35A deployment to Australia will wrap up today, with the aircraft completing their three day ex.
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AMPHIBIOUS EXERCISE ON LUZON
PHILIPPINES: Australia has successfully completed a long range amphibious insertion exercise with the Armed Forces of the Philippines into the South China Sea.
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MARINE MV-22B TILTROTOR CRASH IN NT
MELVILLE IS NT: A US Marine Rotational Force - Darwin MV-22B has crashed on Melville Island during a training flight north of Darwin.
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MQ-4C TRITON IFC4 RETROFIT KITS
USA: The US Navy has contracted Northrop Grumman for MQ-4C Triton IFC4 retrofit kits for the itself and the RAAF.
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NIGHTSTALKERS MH-47G LANDS ON HMAS ADELAIDE
CORAL SEA: Video: The famour 160th Special Operations Aviation Regiment has been active in Australia for Talisman Sabre and beyond. |
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FIRST GOOD LOOK AT ARMY'S NEW UH-60M
HOLSWORTHY: The first high resolution images of the Army's new UH-60M Black Hawks have been released by Defence.
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RAAF F-35A's LONG USA STAY
USA: At least four of the RAAF's newest F-35A Lightning IIs have been flying and training in the USA since May in an odd alteration to the delivery schedule.
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FIRST EVER INDIAN SUBMARINE VISIT
ROCKINGHAM WA: The Indian Navy has berthed a submarine at Fleet Base West, the first ever visit by an Indian submarine.
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7RAR SOCIAL MEDIA RUMOURS
EDINBURGH SA: Unconfirmed reports that the Adelaide based 7RAR will be disbanded are circulating on the internet.
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2ND HIMARS ORDER APPROVED BY US
USA: A second order for enough additional M142 HIMARS to equip a second Australian Army regiment has been approved by the US Department of State.
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RGM-109E TLAM, AGM-88G AARGM-EXTENDED RANGE & SPIKE LR2 APPROVALS
AUSTRALIA: The Government has approved the RGM-109E Tomahawk and AGM-88G AARGM-ER missiles after delaying the programs for the DSR.
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MASSIVE NEW URBAN OPS LIVE FIRE TRAINING FACILITIES
AUSTRALIA: Huge new live fire Urban Operations Training Facilities have been built at the expanded Shoalwater Bay Training Area.
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1st AUST ARMY ABRAMS INTERNATIONAL TRIP
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Army's Abrams MBTs are being sealifted to Indonesia by the US Army for combined training with the TNI.
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FULL SIZED BREACHING AXE - LBA-01
AUSTRALIA: Halfbreed Blades have just released their first full sized breaching axe, the LBA-01.
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RAAF E-7A HEADLINE RED FLAG ALASKA 23-3
ALASKA USA: An RAAF E-7A Wedgetail is headlining the US military's classified Red Flag Alask 23-3 activities.
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ARMY BROADENS FLAME RESISTANT UNIFORM ISSUE
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Army is issueing its specialist flame resistant uniform to combat engineers, armoured vehicle crews and fuel technicians as well as aircrew.
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LONG RANGE AMPHIBIOUS EXERCISE
DARWIN: The Royal Australian Navy is mounting a long distance combined Australian, US Marine Corps and Philippine amphibious insertion exercise to the Philippines under Ex Alon 23.
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EXERCISE MALABAR 2023
SYDNEY HARBOUR: The Royal Australian Navy is hosting the 27th iteration of Exercise Malabar in eastern Australian waters with US Navy, Indian Navy and Japanese Maritime Self Defence Force warships.
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OFFERS OF LIGHT COMBATANTS FOR RAN
AUSTRALIA: Naval shipbuilders are pre empting the surface fleet review making offers of smaller missile armed combatants for the RAN.
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US NAVY SEALS TALISMAN SABRE
AUSTRALIA: Photostory The US Navy deployed a contingent of SEALs from the Naval Special Warfare Unit for Exercise Talisman Sabre.
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LITHGOW ARMS ACAR RIFLES IN UKRAINE
UKRAINE: Australian made Lithgow Arms ACAR AR clones are in combat in Ukraine after being supplied by Australia within its military aid package.
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INCREASED NUCLEAR SUBMARINE VISITS UNDERWAY
ROCKINGHAM WA: The increase in US Navy nuclear powered submarine visits to Australia agreed at AUSMIN is now under way with USS North Carolina at Fleet Base West.
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US ARMY STAYS ON TO TRAIN AFTER TS23
TOWNSVILLE QLD: Elements of the US Army Talisman Sabre contingent are involved in additional exercises with Australia's 3rd Brigade after TS23 ended.
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ARMY'S FIRST UH-60M BLACK HAWK FLIGHT
HOLSWORTHY NSW: The first of the Australian Army's new UH-60M Black Hawks has flown into 6th Aviation Regiment's base in western Sydney.
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TS23 NORFOLK ISLAND SPECIAL OPERATONS
NORFOLK ISLAND: Photofeature. Australian Commandos conducted a long range insertion and seizure exercise with help from the USAF's 353rd Special Operations Wing.
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TS23 SOUTH KOREAN AMPHIBIOUS ASSAULT
SHOALWATER BAY QLD: The South Korean Navy and Marines have conducted the nation's first ever amphibious landing training in Australia.
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FIRST ATACMS LAUNCH IN AUSTRALIA
DELAMERE NT: The long range ATACMS missile has been launched in Australia for the first time during Ex Talisman Sabre.
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AAAVN LEASING FIXED WING AIRCRAFT
AUSTRALIA: An RFI for a small fleet of leased light transport aircraft for Australian Army Aviation has been released.
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US ARMY & US NAVY ROTATIONAL DEPLOYMENTS TO AUSTRALIA
AUSTRALIA: Both the US Navy and US Army will follow the USMC and USAF and commence regular rotational deployments to Australia.
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US COAST GUARD PORT SECURITY UNIT 312
GLADSTONE QLD: The US Coast Guard has deployed a Port Security Unit within Exercise Talisman Sabre 2023.
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SEARCH FOR MISSING MRH90 CREW
WHITSUNDAY ISLANDS: The search for survivors from the missing Australian Army MRH90 helicopter continues in the Whitsunday Islands.
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HANWHA HAS NOT CONTRACTED AUSSIE EOS TURRET
AUSTRALIA: An accidental Hanwha email of a sensitive document and an EOS advisory to the stockmarket confirm that the AS21 Redback's advanced Aussie turret is NOT yet contracted.
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AS21 ACQUISITION CONFIRMED
CANBERRA: The Government has confirmed the acquisition of the AS21 Redback armoured vehicle pending successful negotiations with the Korean Hanwha company.
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MEDIA REPORTS AS21 REDBACK IFV SELECTED
AUSTRALIA: Various media platforms are reporting that the Hanwha AS21 Redback IFV has been selected for Army's gutted close combat program.
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USMC F-35B EABO EX AT ROCKY
ROCKHAMPTON QLD: US Marine Corps F-35Bs have conducted an EABO 'hot lilly pad' exercise out of Rockhampton Airport within Ex Talisman Sabre 2023. Pics Jason Miller/J.M Photography
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ARMY RESERVE RECRUIT COURSE SHORTENED
AUSTRALIA: The Army Reserve will introduce a new three week recruit course next month to replace the problematic five week course.
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$30 MILLION P320 PISTOL CONTRACT
AUSTRALIA: The ADF has finalised a $30 million contract for its next generation SIG Sauer P320 pistol.
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20 NEW C-130J-30 HERCS FOR RAAF
AUSTRALIA: The RAAF will acquire an expanded fleet of new C-130J-30 Hercules to replace the hard working inservice aircraft.
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KOREAN MARINES DEPLOY WITH K9A1 155mm GUNS
SHOALWATER BAY QLD: South Korean Marines have deployed with the K9A1 155mm SPA for Talisman Sabre demonstrating the Australian Army's next gen artillery system.
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M1A2 ABRAMS MAKES ITS AUSSIE DEBUT
AUSTRALIA: The US Army has deployed the latest variant M1A2 Abrams to Australia for the first time for Talisman Sabre 23.
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USS CANBERRA COMMISSIONED IN SYDNEY
SYDNEY HARBOUR: The US Navy commissioned the Freedom class Littoral Combat Ship USS Canberra in Sydney Harbour in its first overseas commissioning ceremony.
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TALISMAN SABRE's ECLECTIC RIFLES
AUSTRALIA: International contingents have deployed to Australia with some very interesting and very accessorised rifles.
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ARMOURED MANNED UNMANNED - TEAMING MANOEUVRES
PUCKAPUNYAL VIC: The Army's Robotic and Autonomous Systems Implementation and Coordination Office has conducted more complex field manoeuvres with its autonomous AI driven armoured and UAS fleets.
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US ABRAMS DAMAGED IN HWY CRASH
ROCKHAMPTON: A US Army M1 Abrams Main Battle Tank has been damaged in a serious multi vehicle road accident.
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BOXER BLOCK II?
BRISBANE: A previously undisclosed turreted Boxer variant at Rheinmetall in Brisbane revealed in a German Army imagery release has us wondering could it be the Aussie Army's Boxer Block II.
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TS23 INTERNATIONAL CONTINGENTS SETTLE IN
AUSTRALIA: Military personnel and equipment from all over the world is concentrating in northern Australia for Exercise Talisman Sabre 2023.
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US SENATE COMMITTEE APPROVES AUKUS ARRANGEMENTS
USA: The key US Senate Foreign Relations Committee has approved the AUKUS arrangements with specific legistalive amendments included in this year's defence funding act .
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US SPECIAL OPERATIONS COMMAND AC-130Js IN AUSTRALIA
WILLIAMTOWN NSW: The USAF Special Operations Command has deployed AC-130J gunships to Australia for the first time ever.
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FINAL RNZAF P-8A POSEIDON INBOUND
NEW ZEALAND: The RNZAF's new P-8A Poseidon fleet is complete with the last aircraft inbound to Ohakea.
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MORE BUSHMASTERS FOR UKRAINE
LATVIA: The Prime Minister has announced another Bushmaster PMV-M transfer to Ukraine during his visit to the NATO summit.
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RAAF WEDGETAIL TO SUPPORT NATO UKRAINE MISSION
GERMANY: The RAAF will deploy an E-7A Wedgetail to Germany to support the NATO military support mission for Ukraine.
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GERMANS BUY AUSSIE BUILT BOXER
GERMANY: The German Government will acquire a large fleet of Australian built turreted Boxer vehicles for the Deutsches Heer.
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OP KUDU ROTATION 3 OPERATIONAL
ENGLAND: The third Operation Kudu training team to deploy to England to train Ukrainian infantry is operational.
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ARMY ORDER OF BATTLE REORG
AUSTRALIA: The Chief of Army has revealed the first phase of the major reorganisation brought on by the Albanese Govt cuts.
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AIRLIFT OF BUSHMASTERS TO UKRAINE
AMBERLEY QLD: More Bushmaster PMVs have been flown out of RAAF Amberley to support the Armed Forces of Ukraine.
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ADVANCED 'SMART' SIGHT FOR 84MM M4
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Army will equip its new 84mm M4 MRWS with SAABs advanced FCD558 Fire Control Device which allows employment of 'smart' rounds.
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No 1 SPACE SURVEILLANCE UNIT OPERATIONAL
EXMOUTH WA: The Australian Defence Force's Joint Space Command's first space mission unit has been declared operational.
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AS9 HUNTSMAN LIVE FIRE TRIALS UNDERWAY
SOUTH KOREA: Live fire and ballistics data capture trials on the Australian Army's next generation AS9 Huntsman Self Propelled Howitzer System are underway.
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1ST AVIATION REGT SURVIVES CUTS
DARWIN: The Australian Army's 1st Aviation Regiment has survived the Albanese govt cuts and will lead the AH-64Ev6 entry into service.
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AUSTRALIAN SUBMARINE AGENCY ACTIVATED
CANBERRA: The Australian Submarine Agency commenced activity on July 1 to manage and over see the introduction of nuclear powered submarines.
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RNZAF P-8A POSEIDONS OPERATIONAL
NEW ZEALAND: The RNZAF's new P-8A Poseidon fleet has been IOC certified and released for operational tasking.
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RAAF F-35 DELIVERIES MAY BE DELAYED
USA: The latest US DoD F-35 acceptance halt could delay the RAAF's F-35A deliveries and FOC certification of the fleet.
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LEASED 737 MAX 8s FOR RAAF
AUSTRALIA: The RAAF will replace its two long serving B737 BBJs with two new leased 737 Max 8's to modernise the Special Purpose Aircraft fleet.
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SWEDEN APPROVES COLLINS CLASS LOTE
SWEDEN: Australia has gained all the relevent approvals required to upgrade its inservice Collins class submarines from the Swedish government.
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TALISMAN SABRE FORCES DEPLOYING
AUSTRALIA: International military forces are deploying into Australia ahead of the massive Ex Talisman Sabre 2023 set to kick off mid next month.
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SOVs, M113AS4s & 40Ms FOR UKRAINE
CANBERRA: Australia's latest military aid to Ukraine includes Special Operations Vehicles, more APCs and even Army's latest medium trucks.
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THIRD M4 CARL GUSTAV CONTRACT FINALISED
CANBERRA: The Department of Defence has signed up for a third batch of new 84mm M4 MRWS from SAAB Dynamics in Sweden.
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RAN ACCEPTS ADV CAPE WOOLAMAI
AUSTRALIA: The Royal Australian Navy has accepted the fifth ECCPB which will join the patrol fleet in northern waters.
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RAN EXPEDITES RIM-174, TOMAHAWK & RQM-184A
AUSTRALIA: The Royal Australian Navy is fast tracking next generation long range Anti Air/Anti Missile, long range Strike and Stealthy Anti Ship Missiles into service.
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USMC F-35C LIGHTNING IIs FLY IN
WILLIAMTOWN NSW: The USMC has flown in four carrier variant F-35C Lightning IIs to Australia. The first ever visit of the type. Pics Glen Greathead
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RESERVE MORTARS RETURN TO INFANTRY BNS
AUSTRALIA: Army Reserve infantry battalions are regaining their mortar platoons under the latest reorganisation underway.
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NEW MILSPEC FOLDERS FROM HARDCORE HARDWARE
AUSTRALIA: Hardcore Hardware Australia releases new MILSPEC Folder models for 2023.
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INDONESIANS TRAINED ON GIFTED BUSHMASTERS
DARWIN NT: Indonesian soldiers have undergone conversion training on the Bushmaster PMV to operate the vehicles gifted to them.
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GMLRS MANUFACTURE UNDER ANALYSIS
CANBERRA: The 227mm GMLRS guided rockets for HIMARS are a likely munition for Australian production under the GWEO initiative.
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ABRAMS AFLOAT TRANSFER BETWEEN AMPHIBS
TOWNSVILLE: The Amphibious Ready Group has successfully transferred heavy armour from one amphibious ship to another using a Mexefloat powered raft.
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RAN RETIRES FINAL PALUMA CLASS BOATS
CAIRNS QLD: The RAN has decommissioned its last two Paluma class hydrographic survey ships at a ceremony in Cairns.
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ANZAC BRIGADE COMBAT TEAM
NEW ZEALAND: The New Zealand Army has revealed that plans for a deployable combined Anzac Brigade Combat Team within a larger Five Eyes division exist.
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CBRN DECONTAMINATION EXERCISE
BRISBANE: 2CER has led a 7Bde Chemical Biological Radiological and Nuclear decontamination exercise at Gallipoli Barracks as Army gears up for the worst case scenarios.
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ANZAC COMPLETES DPRK SANCTIONS OP
EAST CHINA SEA: HMAS Anzac has completed her Op Argos surveillance operations of North Korean sanctions violations.
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SUB LAUNCHED TOMAHAWKS 'UNDER ASSESSMENT'
CANBERRA: Arming the RAN's Collins class submarines with Tomahawk missiles is still under assessment and may not be value for money.
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9 SQUADRON RAAF REACTIVATED
EDINBURGH SA: The RAAF's iconic 9 Squadron has formally returned to service ready to fly the new MQ-4C Triton maritime surveillance drones.
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INTEGRATOR TUAS ENTERS SERVICE
SHOALWATER BAY QLD: 20th Regiment has flown the Army's new Integrator TUAS drones in the field for the first time at SWBTA.
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US ARMY EXTREME SEALIFT EXERCISE
AUSTRALIA: The US Army will leverage the upcoming Ex Talisman Sabre to prove its extreme range littoral sealift logistics capacity.
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HAWKEI PMV-L FAULTS UNRESOLVED
AUSTRALIA: The ABS braking issues that halted Army acceptance are still unresolved with over 70 percent of the fleet still parked at the factory.
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HMAS LAUNCESTON DECOMMISSIONED
DARWIN: The eighth Armidale class Patrol Boat has been decommissioned at a quiet ceremony at HMAS Coonawarra.
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CDT4 IN SUCCESSFUL COCAINE SEIZURE
KWINANA WA: The RAN's elite Clearance Diving Team 4 seized over $300 million in cocaine during a police led search of a bulk carrier.
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VIRGINIA BLOCK III & IV SSNs FOR RAN
AUSTRALIA: The exact configuration of the initial transferred Virginia class SSNs have been revealed along with a surprise new build Virginia boat.
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SIXTH EVOLVED CAPE PB LAUNCHED
HENDERSON WA: The RAN's sixth next generation Evolved Cape class Patrol Boat has been launched at Austal in Western Australia.
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ADDITIONAL M142 HIMARS FOR ARMY
AUSTRALIA: A second tranche of M142 HIMARS artillery rocket systems has been approved for the Australian Army by the new government.
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ONLY FIVE AUKUS NUKE SUBS APPROVED
AUSTRALIA: The head of the nuclear powered submarine acquisition program has revealed that the Albanese Govt has only approved five locally made Aukus class submarines.
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SPECIAL OPERATIONS COMMAND 'FUNCTIONAL REALLIGNMENT'
AUSTRALIA: Special Operations Command - Australia is undergoing a massive alteration to its mission focus and force generation.
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NEXT GEN EOD ROBOTS
AUSTRALIA: Follow on contracts for the Australian Army's next generation EOD and Counter-IED remotely operated robots have been finalised.
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BREATH TESTS ZERO BLOOD ALCOHOL LIMIT
CANBERRA: In the latest insult to serving members, ADF command has instituted a zero blood alcohol limit and random breath testing in response to IGADF Afghan inquiry. Pic John Hunter Farrell
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SOCAust PARACHUTE SIMULATION SYSTEM
NOWRA NSW: The Defence Special Operations Training & Education Centre has introduced an advanced parachute simulation training system for static and freefall training.
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US NAVY VIRGINIA SSN BUILD COSTS
USA: The actual cost the US Navy pays for a new build Virginia class SSN-774 sub is less than some of the AUKUS costs thrown around suggest.
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NZ BUSHMASTER PMV-M IN SERVICE
NEW ZEALAND: New Zealand Army has its first combat team lift tranche of new Bushmaster 5.5 PMVs.
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OP KUDU ROTATION 2 TRAINING TEAM
ENGLAND: The Australian Army training team in England is finalising its first Ukrainian infantry training course.
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EXERCISE NORTHERN EDGE 23-1
ALASKA USA: The RAAF has been busy training in Alaska with AUKUS partners during Exercise Northern Edge 23-1.
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ARMY'S HIGH INTENSITY WARFIGHTING FOCUS
AUSTRALIA: Army's high intensity warfare training focus has been maintained in the wake of the govt's downgrade of ground combat capability.
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RAAF JASSM-ER B-2 PRODUCTION CONTRACT
USA: Production of the RAAF's next gen AGM-158B-2 JASSM-ER extreme range strike missile has been contracted by the USAF.
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US NAVY TO COMMISSION WARSHIP IN SYDNEY
USA: In an historic first, the US Navy will commission a warship at a foreign naval base with the commissioning of an LCS in Sydney.
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MORE DEFENCE PUBLIC SERVANTS
CANBERRA: The latest Defence budget includes funds for more positions and lots of promotions for civilian pubic servants.
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3RD RNZAF POSEIDON DELIVERY UNDERWAY
NEW ZEALAND: The Royal New Zealand Air Force's third P-8A Poseidon MMMA is due to arrive in NZ tomorrow.
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BRIT OPV MAINTENANCE UNDERWAY IN WA
ROCKINGHAM WA: The Royal Navy's HMS Tamar is undergoing an extended maintenance period at Fleet Base West near Perth.
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MORE BUSHMASTERS FOR AUSTRALIAN ARMY
BENDIGO VIC: The Australian Army will acquire a new tranche of new build Bushmaster PMV-Ms under an industrial support arrangement.
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TOP HEAVY ADF FORCE STRUCTURE
CANBERRA: The Australian Defence Force is extraordinarily top heavy with battalions of senior officers to command fewer and fewer and smaller combat units.
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RAAF KA350 DONATED TO SRI LANKA
SRI LANKA: Australia has donated one of the RAAF's small fleet of KA350 King Airs to support Sri Lanka's efforts to stop illegal boats violating Australia's borders.
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BUDGET WEIRD AAAVN HELO FUNDING
CANBERRA: A close look at this year's Defence budget reveals some very odd Australian Army Aviation flying hour allocations.
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BUDGET DOCS CONFIRM P-8A INC 3 UPGRADE
EDINBURGH SA: The recent budget has confirmed the continuation of the RAAF's progressive P-8A spiral upgrade program.
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ANAO REPORT SAVAGES SEA 5000 CONTRACT
CANBERRA: The Govt's Australian National Audit Office has concluded that the Hunter class frigate contract has serious 'value for money' issues.
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ARAFURA OPV DELAYED AGAIN
OSBORNE SA: Nuship Arafura, the first of class OPV, has been further delayed and will not be offered for acceptance until the end of the year.
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DEFENCE BUDGET 2023-24
CANBERRA: The 2023-24 Defence Budget reveals no new weapons programs but increases overall Defence spending to over $52 billion.
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RAN MTUAS ACQUISITION 'RESCOPED'
CANBERRA: The RAN's efforts to introduce a Maritime Tactical UAS for its surface fleet is another victim of the Albanese Govt cuts.
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RAN SEEKS SURTASS-EXPEDITIONARY ARRAYS
USA: The US State Department has approved an Australian request for the advanced SURTASS-Expeditionary towed sonar array submarine detection system.
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MASS ASM COUNTERMEASURES SUITE FOR RAN
CANBERRA: The RAN will equip its surface combatants with the advanced Rheinmetall MASS anti missile countermeasures system.
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eNASAMS GBAD BREAKS COVER
BEECROFT NSW: Imagery of the Army's new eNASAMS Ground Based Air Defence System during its certification trials has been released.
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NEW FAC/JTAC TRAINERS 'RESCOPED'
CANBERRA: The ADF's program to acquire a purpose built JTAC training support fighter has been officially 'rescoped' by the Albanese Government DSR cuts.
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RAAF TO TRAIN USAF E-7A TEAMS
WILLIAMTOWN NSW: The USAF will deploy a large contingent of air and technical personnel to Australia to train on the E-7A Wedgetail.
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SUDAN EVACUATION FLIGHT
SUDAN: An RAAF C-130J Hercules has successfully completed an airlift of Australian citizens and dependents out of wartorn Sudan.
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UH-60M OPERATIONAL CONVERSION 'SOON'
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Army's Operational Conversion to the new Black Hawk helicopter will kick off in Sydney within weeks.
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NEXT GEN MORTAR AMMO 'RESCOPED'
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Army's project to introduce modern mortar ammo has been 'rescoped' under the Albanese Government cuts.
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RAAF AAR TRIALS WITH JASDF F-15J
JAPAN: The RAAF has conducted more air to air refuelling certification flight trials in Japan, this time on the Eagle.
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NZ SEEKS NEXT GEN NAVAL HELO
NEW ZEALAND: New Zealand is shopping for a next generation naval aviation support capability and is looking at both helos and MTUAS.
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RAAF DSR UNCLASSIFIED OUTCOMES
AUSTRALIA: Outside of some already known missiles, the RAAF seems to have garnered very little attention in the unclassified DSR documents which may be a good or a bad thing.
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'SIGNIFICANTLY SMALLER' COMBINED ARMS CAPABILITY
AUSTRALIA: A video statement by Chief of Army has confirmed that the DSR will 'significantly' reduce Australia's close combat capacity.
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PrSM MISSILE APPROVAL
AUSTRALIA: The approval of the Precision Strike Missile for the Army's future HIMARS units is the only good news from the Government.
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DSR RELEASE MAJOR DECISIONS
AUSTRALIA: The Army has copped a flogging and the RAAF hasn't done very well out of the Albanese Government's Defence Strategic Review. With the RAN still facing the knife.
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ARMY SLASHED IN DSR CUTS - REPORTS
AUSTRALIA: Simultaneous major media outlet reports claim that the Albanese Government will slash the Army's combat capacity under its new defence structure.
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HMAS ANZAC SAILS FOR OP ARGOS
INDIAN OCEAN: HMAS Anzac is steaming north for five months of activity including monitoring North Korean violations.
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EXERCISE BALIKATAN 2023
PHILIPPINES: Pictorial - Australian Army conventional and Special Operations contingents are in the Philippines for Exercise Balikatan 2023 with the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
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PLAN ANZAC BILATERAL AGREEMENT
NEW ZEALAND: The Australan and New Zealand Armies have signed a closer engagement and interoperability agreement to expand sovereign combat capacity.
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US ARMY INBOUND FOR TALISMAN SABRE
AUSTRALIA: The US Army is planning a major expansion of its contingent to Talisman Sabre, with Abrams tanks and 400 other vehicles inbound.
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OP KUDU TRAINING TEAM RETURNS
DARWIN NT: The Australian Army's Operation Kudu training team has returned to the NT after completing its deployment training Ukrainians in England. |
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RAAF & USN MQ-4C COOPERATION
USA: RAAF personnel are active in the US Navy's Triton persistent maritime surveillance program ahead of the Tritons arrival in Australia.
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VTOL SYSTEM FOR INTEGRATOR TUAS
USA: Insitu has developed a Vertical Take Off and Landing ancilliary system for the inservice Integrator TUAS.
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RAAF F-35A LIGHTNING II ACCEPTANCE RESUMED
USA: RAAF acceptance processes for new F-35A Lightning IIs is back on track after LRIP14 restrictions lifted and flight trials resume.
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ZALUZHNYI MOVES IN BUSHMASTER PMV
UKRAINE: Ukraine's legendary General Valerii Zaluzhnyi has been spotted visiting the front in an Aussie Bushmaster PMV-M. |
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DEFENCE BUYS ANOTHER OSV
SINGAPORE: Defence has acquired another OSV as a dedicated Undersea Support Vessel for the Integrated Undersea Surveillance System. Pic D Meek
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ANZAC RESERVE URBAN EX
SINGLETON NSW: Photo story - Army Reservists from the NSW based 5th Brigade and the New Zealand Army Reserve 2/4RNZIR conduct combined training at the School of Infantry |
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HMAS ARMIDALE DECOMMISSIONED
DARWIN: The RAN has decommissioned HMAS Armidale, the first of class of the Armidale class Patrol Boats.
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QINETIQ LASER WEAPON PROTOTYPE FUNDED
AUSTRALIA: The Department of Defence has contracted QinetiQ Australia to build an advanced Laser Directed Energy Weapon prototype.
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RAAF NEXT GEN JAMMER IN PRODUCTION
USA: The first AN/ALQ-249(V1) Next Generation Jammer - Mid Band suites for the RAAF's Growlers has been contracted.
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UKRAINE BUYS AUSSIE EOS RWS SYSTEMS
CANBERRA: Ukraine has ordered more than 100 Australian designed and manufactured EOS Remote Weapons Stations.
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RAN ORDERS BQM-177A SSAT
USA: The RAN is acquiring the advanced Kratos BQM-177A Subsonic Aerial Target system to validate its warships ASMD capability.
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MULTI INFLUENCE SEA MINE ACQUISITION
AUSTRALIA: The RAN will acquire a large amount of advanced Italian made 'smart' seamines with a production line in NSW.
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LEGACY F2 MORTAR STILL IN SERVICE
AUSTRALIA: The old 1980s era F2 Mortar is still in service, years after its scheduled replacement by the M252A1.
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RNZAF C-130J-30 OPCON UNDERWAY
USA: The RNZAF has commenced its Operational Conversion to the next gen C-130J-30 Super Hercules in the United States.
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7 BDE HIGH INTENSITY WARFARE TRAINING
SHOALWATER BAY QLD: The Brisbane based 1st Brigade is energising its combat engineering heavy combat support skills. |
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84mm M4 MRWS ROLLOUT ALMOST COMPLETE
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Army's pandemic interrupted introduction of the next gen 84mm M4 Carl Gustav is almost complete.
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OP KUDU TRAINING TEAM 2ND UKRAINIAN COURSE
UNITED KINGDOM: The 5RAR training team in England has commenced training its second combat team of Ukrainian infantrymen. |
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GERMAN BOXER BUY NEGOTIATIONS
CANBERRA: There is a lot more complexity and potential profit in the proposed German Boxer CRV buy than a dangled carrot to favour Rheinmetall for Land 400 Phase 3.
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SPEC OPS INTERCEPTORS IN WA
FREMANTLE WA: Some very interesting Special Operations watercraft were spotted in Freo harbour yesterday.
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MRH90 HELO DITCHES DURING CT EX
JERVIS BAY: An Army MRH90 TTH helicopter has been lost during Counter Terrorism training in NSW.
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GROWLER FLEET RESTORED TO FULL STRENGTH
AMBERLEY SEQ: The RAAF has restored its Growler fleet to full strength with a 12th aircraft. First pics of A46-313.
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ARMY ESCALATES WARFIGHTING FOCUS
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Army is altering its public messaging and training focusing on warfighting and warfighters.
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HMAS CHOULES MH-60R ROMEO FOCFT
TASMAN SEA NSW: The RAN is conducting MH-60R Romeo First of Class Flight Trials aboard the Landing Ship Dock HMAS Choules.
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GERMANY DUMPS TIGER HELO
GERMANY: The Deutsches Heer has announced it will retire it EC665 Tiger gunships, vindicating Australia's decision to retire its own fleet of undeployable Tigers ARH.
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SOTG VETERAN CHARGED WITH MURDER
AUSTRALIA: The ABC is reporting that Australian Federal Police have charged an SOTG Afghanistan veteran with murder over an incident in Afghanistan.
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MARINE ROTATIONAL FORCE - DARWIN 2023 ARRIVALS
DARWIN NT: Advance elements of Marine Rotational Force - Darwin 2023 have flown into the Top End ahead of the main force for this years Dry Season MAGTF deployment. |
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RAN RGM-109E BLOCK IV/V APPROVAL
USA: The US State Department has approved an Australian order for hundreds of very long range Tomahawk cruise missiles .
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SOME SSN AUKUS DETAILS REVEALED
AUSTRALIA: The Australian and United Kingdom MoDs have revealed a few technical and armament details of the next gen SSN AUKUS nuclear powered subs.
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2ND RNZAF P-8A POSEIDON INBOUND
NEW ZEALAND: The second RNZAF P-8A Poseidon has left the USA bound for New Zealand's RNZAF Base Ohakea.
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SSN AUKUS COSTS
AUSTRALIA: We examine US Navy and Royal Navy nuclear SSN costs to sort some rationality into the Government's next gen sub fleet predictions.
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US NAVY SIGNALS MQ-4C ACQUISITION END
USA: The US Navy has officially requested ending MQ-4C Triton acquisition next year potentially leaving the RAAF in a lurch.
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AUKUS SSN DETAILS CONFIRMED
USA: The leaders of the USA, UK and Australia confirmed Australia's acquisition of Virginia and later more advanced AUKUS nuclear submarines along with Australian basing and international training arrangements. |
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VANUATU ASSIST 23 OPERATIONS
VANUATU: The ADF disaster response contingent has disembarked at Port Vila and commenced HADR operations. |
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US NAVY HAS MASSIVE PLANS FOR AUSTRALIA
USA: The US Secretary of the Navy has revealed massive plans for American SSN sub basing, maintenance and maybe even builds in Australia. |
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VIRGINIA CLASS SSNs FOR RAN - REPORTS
USA: Reuters is reporting that Australia will acquire a fleet of Virginia class SSNs or SSGNs as a first tranche of AUKUS. |
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RAAF F/A-18F BLOCK III UPGRADE
USA: The RAAF is planning to upgrade its F/A-18F Super Hornet Block II+ to full Super Hornet Block III configuraiton. |
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FGM-148F JAVELIN ALL UP ROUND BUY
USA: The US State Department has approved an Australian acquisition of the latest FGM-148F Javelin missile for the Army. |
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AUKUS ANNOUNCEMENT ON TUESDAY
UNITED KINGDOM: The Brit Financial Times newspaper is reporting that the AUKUS 'preferred pathway' will be announced next Tuesday. |
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OP VANUATU ASSIST 23
VANUATU: The ADF has launched a major HADR operation to support Vanuatu after two cyclones hit within a week. |
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EX AUST ARMY HAMEL GUNS IN BAKHMUT
UKRAINE: Former Aust Army artillery guns are part of Ukraine's forces in the epic battle for Bakhmut currently raging. |
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MORE AW139 HELOS FOR ARMY
AUSTRALIA: Army is leasing two additional AW139 helicopters to maintain rotary wing support to units on the east coast and Darwin . |
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MQ-4C TRITON IIS GAINS MOMENTUM
AUSTRALIA: The RAAF's MQ-4C Triton drone's Introduction Into Service program is gaining momentum with the type's first flight and personnel OpCon about to kick off. |
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GLOBAL F-35A ENGINE FIX ORDERED
USA: The US government's F-35 Joint Project Office has ordered a quick compulsory engine modification which affects all RAAF F-35As. |
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ARMY PREFERRED AS21 REDBACK - MEDIA
AUSTRALIA: A major mainstream media outlet is reporting that Army formally preferenced the Hanwha AS21 Redback IFV for the under threat Land 400/3. |
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TWO MORE PAC750XL FOR PNGDF
PAPUA NEW GUINEA: Two additional PAC750XL XSTOL aircraft will be delivered to the PNGDF's Air Transport Wing in the near future. |
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RAZER LOW COST AIR LAUNCHED MUNITION
AVALON VIC: An Aussie advanced new very low cost air launched stand off precision munition has been revealed at Avalon airshow. |
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BOXER IMMERSIVE TACTICAL TRAINER SIMULATORS
BRISBANE QLD: A fleet of highly realistic Boxer Combat Reconnaissance Vehicle training simulators is being built in Brisbane to support the new Boxer CRV fleet entering service next year. |
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RAAF AGM-88G AARGM-EXTENDED RANGE APPROVED
USA: The US State Department has approved an acquisition of the futuristic AGM-88G AARGM-ER air defence suppression missile for the RAAF. |
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STRIX ARMED DRONE REVEALED
AVALON VIC: BAE Systems Australia has unveiled an advanced Australian developed low cost UCAV combat drone. |
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RNZAF INTRODUCING ADVANCED MK 54 TORPEDO
NEW ZEALAND: The RNZAF is introducing the advanced Mark 54 Lightweight Torpedo to arm its new P-8A Poseidons. |
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ARMY INDIVIDUAL WEAPON CAMOUFLAGE
AUSTRALIA: Army has adopted a specialist weapon paint system for individual weapon camouflage. |
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AH-64E & UH-60M OT&E TRIALS
AUSTRALIA: Both the US Army UH-60M Black Hawk and AH-64E Apache Guardian have more on their agenda than just the Avalon airshow. |
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F-35A ENGINE ISSUE 'MITIGATION' ACCEPTED
USA: The US Government's F-35 Joint Program Office has lifted the freeze on F135 engine acceptance clearing the way for Lightning deliveries to resume. |
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FIRST ECCPB ASSIGNED TO DARWIN
HENDERSON WA: The first of the new Evolved Cape Class Patrol Boat is enroute to HMAS Coonawarra in Darwin. |
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RIFLE COMPANY BUTTERWORTH 137
MALAYSIA: Photostory. The current rotation of Rifle Company Butterworth is maintaining an Australian Army tradition dating back to 1970. |
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HMAS STUART RELAUNCHED AFTER AMCAP
HENDERSON WA: HMAS Stuart has been refloated after completing the hardstand component of the AMCAP systems upgrade program. |
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AUSTRALIAN DEVELOPED JDAM-ER FOR UKRAINE
USA: US media is reporting that the US will deliver JDAM-Extended Range wing kits developed by Australia to Ukraine to improve stand off precision air strikes. |
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MRH-90 STUMBLES TOWARDS FOC DEADLINE
AUSTRALIA: Army's problematic MRH-90 TTH helicopter is scheduled to achieve a caveated FOC certification next month as it fast approaches withdrawal from service. |
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OP KUDU TRAINING TEAM 'AK' SMALL ARMS
ENGLAND: 5RAR Diggers are employing unconventional 'AK' type assault rifles in the Ukrainian infantry training program in the UK. |
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UKRAINE TRAINING TEAM URBAN OPS
ENGLAND: Video: The Australian Army puts Ukrainian trainees through urban close combat training at a Brit Army facility. |
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APACHE FLYING IN WESTERN SYDNEY
RICHMOND NSW: Sharp eyed aviation photographers have snapped an AH-64E Apache flying out of a RAAF base in western Sydney. Pic Glen Greathead/GEG Aviation Photography |
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RAN DIGITAL MINE COUNTERMEASURES
SYDNEY HARBOUR: The RAN's Maritime Deployable Robotic & Autonomous Systems Experimentation Unit is developing unmanned 'stand off' mine clearance. |
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RAAF NORTH KOREA SANCTIONS OPS
JAPAN: An RAAF P-8A Poseidon has deployed to Japan to monitor North Korean sanctions evasion activities.
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S100 S2 MTUAS STILL UNDER EVALUATION
CANBERRA: The RAN is still evaluating its options for a fleet MTUAS and has only ordered a few additional S100 S2 Camcopters. |
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UH-60Ms INBOUND + MAJOR AAAVN REORG
AUSTRALIA: The first UH-60M Black Hawks will be flying in Australian skies very shortly and it will be goodbye to the MRH-90 next year. |
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RAAF F-35A FROZEN IN TEXAS
USA: One completed RAAF F-35A is grounded at Lockheed Martin and cannot be delivered until the LRIP14 flight restriction is lifted. |
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ECCPB CAPE CAPRICORN JOINS FLEET
HENDERSON WA: The fourth Evolved Cape Class Patrol Boat has entered service with the RAN patrol boat fleet. |
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FIRST UKRAINE M113AS4 CONFIRMED LOST
UKRAINE: Video of an Australian donated M113AS4 APC lost in Russian controlled territory has been broadcast on Russian TV
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5RAR UKRAINIAN TRAINING PROGRAM
ENGLAND: Pictorial The Australian Army training team in southern England is putting their Ukrainian trainees through their five week course.
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FUTURE LITTORAL MANOEUVRE REGIMENT
CANBERRA: The Army's planned Littoral Manoeuvre Regiment aims to revolutionise ADF regional combat capacity. |
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US ARMY REDESIGNATES NEW NGSW-RIFLE
USA: A copyright issue over the M-5 small arms designation has forced the US Army to rename its new 6.8x51mm battle rifle. |
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5TH ECCPB PATROL BOAT LAUNCHED
HENDERSON WA: The fifth Evolved Cape Class Patrol Boat for the RAN has been launched in Western Australia. |
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US SENATOR OPPOSING ADF WEAPONS BUYS
USA: A prominant US Senator has made repeated attempts to block Australian weapons purchases from US suppliers. |
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RNZAF C-130H RETIREMENT COMMENCING
NEW ZEALAND: The RNZAF has begun the progressive retirement of its Vietnam era C-130H Hercules aircraft. |
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RERAISING OF 4RAR FROZEN
AUSTRALIA: The planned reraising of 4RAR as an elite amphibious unit is currently frozen by the Albanese Government. |
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ADVANCED GROWLER EW RANGE EMITTORS
AUSTRALIA: Contracts have been signed for a high tech Electronic Warfare range emittor suite to support the Advanced Growler program. |
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US BUDGET REVEALS AUKUS DETAILS
US: The US 2023 Defense Budget documents detail some exciting AUKUS developments. |
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AUKUS ANNOUNCEMENT ARRANGEMENTS UNDERWAY
CANBERRA: Reports that the Prime Minister is travelling to the USA for the AUKUS submarine announcement are strong signs that the program is progressing. |
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OP KUDU TRAINING TEAM COMMENCES WORK
ENGLAND: Pictorial The Australian Army Training Team supporting the Ukrainian Army has commenced operations in southern England.
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UPRATED DRIVELINE FOR BOXER BLOCK II
BRISBANE: The Aust Army's next gen Boxer Block II Combat Reconnaissance Vehicle will have more powerful engines and higher spec transmissions that the inservice Block I. |
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RNZAF POSEIDON IIS FLIGHTS BEGIN
NEW ZEALAND: The RNZAF Poseidon Transition Unit has commenced P-8A Poseidon Introduction Into Service flights out of Kiwi bases. |
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JOINT AUSTRALIAN TRAINING TEAM - PHILIPPINES
BRISBANE: The Australian Army is deploying its latest training team to the Philippines to support the AFP's combat capability.
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MQ-4C TRITON CERTIFICATION ISSUES
USA: US Navy testing delays will impact the RAAF's MQ-4C Triton Introduction Into Service program. |
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RNZAF RETIRES P-3K2 ORIONS
NEW ZEALAND: The RNZAF's P-3K2 Orions have flown their final operational task with a three ship formation over the capital. |
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RAAF AN/ASG-34(v)2 IRST21 INTRODUCTION
USA: Roll on pandemic affects have complicated the US Navy and RAAF introduction of the advanced AN/ASG-34(v)2 IRST21 air to air combat sensor system. |
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RAN SEA MINE ACQUISITION
CANBERRA: Advanced modern sea mines able to detect and engage hostile warships have been bought for the Royal Australian Navy. |
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RED FLAG 23-1
USA: The RAAF has returned to Nellis AFB in Las Vegas to train with the US and UK in Red Flag 23-1.
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5TH AVIATION REGT RELOCATION
TOWNSVILLE: Two thirds of 5th Aviation Regiment will relocate to Army Aviation Centre Oakey in the near future. |
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DEFENCE SECURITY REVIEW SPECULATION - RAAF
AUSTRALIA: Just some of the rumours about the Smith Houston DSR's plans for the RAAF being thrown about by Labor Party linked journos and online private chat groups. |
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TRAINING TEAM DEPARTS FOR UK
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Army's contribution to the training of the Ukraine Army is about to deploy to Britain.
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UH-60M BLACK HAWK ACQUISITION IS BACK ON
AUSTRALIA: The Albanese Government has reapproved the Army's critically needed UH-60M Black Hawk replacement for the failed MRH90 helicopter. |
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BARRETT NOW AUSTRALIAN OWNED
AUSTRALIA: Queensland based military systems supplier Nioa Group has bought out the iconic Barrett rifle company. |
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SENATOR JIM MOLAN DEAD AT 72
AUSTRALIA: Senator and former Major General Jim Molan, the foremost strategic policy expert in the Australian parliament has passed away. |
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OP FLOOD ASSIST 23-1
KIMBERLEY WA: ADF aviation and ground assets are supporting isolated communities in Western Australia's remote Kimberley region.
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ISRAELI VEHICLE PROTECTION SYSTEM FOR IFVs
AUSTRALIA: Australian Army AFVs and MBTs will be fitted with advanced Israeli Fire Location sensors as part of their Active Protection System suites. |
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PrSM PRECISION STRIKE MISSILE
USA: The Aussie partnered long range PrSM Precision Strike Missile program is bearing fruit with US Army Introduction Into Service later this year. |
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ARTY & MISSILES MAY BE SAFE FROM DSR CUTS
AUSTRALIA: Recent confirmations of artillery and rocket quarantine from the Smith Houston DSR cuts is good news for the Royal Australian Artillery. |
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EX AUSSIE M113AS4 APCS IN COMBAT
UKRAINE: Australian donated M113AS4 Armoured Personnel Carriers are in heavy combat in the battle for Luhansk in Ukraine.
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US SENATORS OPPOSE AUSTRALIAN SSGN
USA: Top US Senators have gone public with their total opposition to Australian purchase of Virginia submarines. |
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RGM-184A NSM (RE)APPROVED FOR RAN
CANBERRA: The Govt has given final approval of an expedited buy of Naval Strike Missiles orginally announced mid 2022 by the previous Government. |
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M142 HIMARS CONTRACT FINALISED
CANBERRA: The contract for Army's first regiment of the new HiMARS rocket artillery system has been signed. |
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NEW F-35A BLOCK 4 RADAR REVEALED
USA: The US Department of Defence has revealed a next generation radar system for its Block 4 Lightnings. |
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BOXER AMMO SUBJECT TO SWISS VETO
AUSTRALIA: The advanced 30mm ammo for the Army's new Boxer CRVs is not only extremely expensive, but is subject to Swiss export controls. |
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AUSTAL NUCLEAR SUB WORK IN USA
USA: The US subsidiary of Aussie naval firm Austal is building hull components for the US Navy's Virginia SSGNs. |
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RAAF F-35 DELIVERIES AFFECTED
AUSTRALIA: A limited flight ban on new F-35As will impact Lockheed Martin delivering RAAF F-35A Lightning IIs. |
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EX PACIFIC EDGE 23
HAWAII: The RAAF teamed up with USAF, Hawaii ANG, US Navy and USMC with the largest ever assembly of 5th generation air combat power in the bilateral Ex Pacific Edge.
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HMAS WARRAMUNGA TRANSFERS TO SYDNEY
SYDNEY HARBOUR: HMAS Warramunga has been rebased at Fleet Base East after HMAS Parramatta was dry docked for upgrade. |
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NZ UKRAINE TRAINING TEAMS HOME
NEW ZEALAND: The two New Zealand Army infantry training teams have returned home after completing their training program of Ukrainian infantry in the UK.
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FUTURE FRIGATE BUILD MOMENTUM
OSBORNE SA: Some of the scheduled slippages for the Hunter frigate build have been recovered by the prime contractor. |
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NZDF OPERATIONAL CRISIS
NEW ZEALAND: The New Zealand Defence Force has been forced to tie up ships and retire its Orion fleet due to a personnel shortage. |
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RAN XLAUV PROGRAM UNDERWAY
SYDNEY: The RAN, DSTG and Anduril Australia Ghost Shark XLAUV autonomous undersea drone program is underway in earnest |
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TWO MORE LIGHTNING IIs DELIVERED
WILLIAMTOWN NSW: Two additional F-35As have flown into RAAF Williamtown bring the total to five in three days. Pic Zach Mason |
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RAAF ADDITIONAL MQ-4C ACQUISITION REVIVED
CANBERRA: The RAAF has restarted negotiations to acquire additional MQ-4C Triton advanced maritime surveillance drones. |
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NEW F-35As FLY IN TO WILLIAMTOWN
WILLIAMTOWN NSW: The RAAF's F-35A Lightning II fleet is expanding with new aircraft arrivals after the long flight from the USA. Pics Zach Mason and Glen Greathead |
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HMAS WOLLONGONG DECOMISSIONED
CAIRNS FNQ: The RAN's Armidale class Patrol Boat HMAS Wollongong has been decommissioned from service in Cairns. |
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ARMY SELECTS SKYLARK 1 LEX sUAS
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Army has selected the Israeli Skylark I LEX Small Unmanned Aerial System as its next gen small battlefield surveillance drone. |
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BOEING DELIVERS FIRST RNZAF P-8A POSEIDON
USA: The first Royal New Zealand Air Force P-8A Poseidon has been delivered by Boeing Defence in the USA. |
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INDONESIAN NAVY HOSTED ABOARD AUSSIE SUB
INDONESIA: The Royal Australian Navy has hosted a delegation of senior Indonesian Navy personnel aboard a Collins class submarine. |
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EXPANSION OF US ROTATIONS INTO AUSTRALIA
USA: The US military will substantially expand the rotation of its military assets through Australia under an accellerated Australia United States Force Posture Initiative program. |
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US ARMY SELECTS BELL V280 TILTROTOR
USA: The US Army has selected the V280 Valor tiltrotor as its Future Long Range Assault Aircraft UH-60 replacement. |
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FIRST AUST ARMY EX IN INDIA
INDIA: The Australian Army is conducting its first conventional training activity in India under Ex Austra Hind 22.
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20RAA TRANSFERRED TO 16 AVN BRIGADE
BRISBANE: Army's TUAS operator 20th Regiment Royal Australian Artillery is now transferred to Army's new Aviation Command. |
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BRIT TYPE 26 FRIGATE LAUNCHED
UNITED KINGDOM: The first Royal Navy Type 26 Global Combat Ship has been launched, taking some pressure off Australia's own Type 26 evolution the delayed Hunter class Future Frigate. |
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B-21 RAIDER BOMBER REVEALED
USA: Northrop Grumman has revealed the USAF's next generation B-21 Raider strategic bomber at a ceremony in California. |
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3RAR MECH EMPLOY M252A1 81MM MORTAR
TOWNSVILLE: Contrary to earlier Army HQ announcements at least one mechanised infantry battalion is employing the new M252A1 mortar. |
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LIVE FIRE RANGE IN A BOX
INDIAN OCEAN: The Australian Army has deployed an Aussie made advanced digital containerised live fire range aboard HMAS Adelaide for Indo Pacific Endeavour. |
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US NAVY OPEN TO SUB STATIONING
ROCKINGHAM WA: The US Navy's COMSUBPAC has confirmed the US Navy is interested in operating SSN submarines from Aussie bases. |
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BOXER CRVs INTERNATIONAL DEBUT
SINGAPORE: Aussie 2/14LHR Boxer CRVs have conducted their first international training deployment with urban training in Singapore.
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VIRGINIA SSN DOCKS AT FLEET BASE WEST
ROCKINGHAM WA: Fleet Base West is hosting the second US Navy nuclear powered submarine to conduct a port visit this year. |
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CAMPBELL MOVES ON AFGHAN MEDALS
CANBERRA: The Chief of Defence Force Angus Campbell has officially commenced actions to strip medals from Afghanistan commanders. |
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ALBANESE GOVT HALTS ARMY UPGRADE
CANBERRA: The Government has halted the Australian Army's Armoured Fighting Vehicle replacement program. |
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HIMARS QUEUE GROWS WHILE AUSTRALIA DITHERS
USA: Multiple international orders for HIMARS are jumping the queue while Australia sits on its hands waiting for the DSR. |
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KIMBERLEY BORDER PROTECTION PATROL
KIMBERLEY WA: Army's Regional Force Surveillance Group is employing advanced drones to support its border protection patrols in remote northern Western Australia.
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RAN REFUELS US CARRIER AT SEA
PHILIPPINE SEA: An RAN Supply class AOR has completed the First of Class refuel and resupply of a US Navy aircraft carrier at sea.
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US NAVY P-8A HAAWC HIGH ALTITUDE ATTACK IOC
USA: The US Navy has certified the High Altitude Anti Submarine Warfare Weapon Capability for the P-8A Poseidon IOC paving the way for the RAAF introduction into service. |
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PROJECT CONVERGENCE 22
USA: Video: The Australian Army is testing its next gen tech alongside the US and UK in the US Army Future's Command's Experiment Project Convergence 22 in the California desert. |
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RAN RETIRES MQ-27 SCANEAGLE TUAS
NOWRA NSW: The RAN has retired its ScanEagle trials UAS fleet ahead of the introduction of its next gen MTUAS. |
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CATASTROPHIC ARMY COMBAT DOWNGRADE
CANBERRA: A leading media commentator is reporting he has been 'told' details of the Albanese Govt's DSR advice and it is catastrophic for Army. |
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NZDF UNIMOG & PINZGAUER REPLACEMENT
NEW ZEALAND: The New Zealand Dept of Defence is seeking next generation light and medium tactical vehicles. |
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F-35A DELIVERIES SLOW BUT STEADY
USA: New RAAF F-35A Lightnings are rolling off the Texas assembly line slowly but steadily due to post pandemic supply chain issues. |
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CHINESE EW ATTACK ON RAN, USN, JMSDF WARSHIPS
SPRATLY ISLANDS: A trilateral Australian, US and Japanese surface action package was targeted by the Chinese military in the South China Sea in October. |
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RAAF ROKAF REFUELLING AGREEMENT
SOUTH KOREA: The RAAF and Republic of Korea Air Force are alligning Air to Air Refuelling procedures to allow AAR of each others aircraft. |
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INDO PACIFIC ENDEAVOUR 2022
INDIAN OCEAN: The ADF has deployed an integrated amphibious element to the Indian Ocean under IPE22 for multilateral training activities. |
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NAVANTIA OFFER OF EXPEDITED WARSHIPS
AUSTRALIA: The Department of Defence is evaluating an expedited Spanish offer to build more warships. |
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HAWKEI OPERATIONAL RESTRICTIONS
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Army has banned Hawkei PMV-Ls from public roads while it investigates another braking issue. |
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OPV ARAFURA DELIVERY DELAYED
OSBORNE SA: The RAN will recieve its first Arafura class Offshore Patrol Vessel a few months late in 2023. |
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HANWHA SPH VIDEO
USA: Video: Hanwha has released a video of the Korean Army version of the Aust Army's next gen AS9 155mm arty system. |
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NEW ROCKET ARTILLERY REGIMENT
CANBERRA: Army will re raise the 14th Regiment Royal Australian Artillery to operate its future M142 HiMARS fleet. |
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MRH-90 'EXTREMELY PROBLEMATIC'
CANBERRA: Senate defence estimates hearings have seen a torrent of extremely negative ADF responses on the poorly performing MRH-90 helicopter. |
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NEW ADF FOCUS 'IMPACTFUL PROJECTION'
CANBERRA: The Government has stated the ADF will be reorganised to deliver a new strategy of 'Impactful Projection'. |
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HMAS PARRAMATTA DRY DOCKED FOR AMCAP
HENDERSON WA: HMAS Parramatta has been dry docked to commence her major combat systems upgrade. |
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GOVT HINTING AT MAJOR ARMY DEFUNDING
CANBERRA: Prime Minister Albanese is openly hinting he plans to strip the Army of its combat capability |
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ADV CAPE NATURALISTE DELIVERED
HENDERSON WA: The third new build ECCPB patrol boat ADV Cape Naturaliste has been delivered to the RAN. |
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E-NASAMS GROUND BASED AIR DEFENCE MOMENTUM
AUSTRALIA: The first fully integrated vehicle mounted elements of Army's next generation E-NASAMS anti aircraft and missile defence systems will soon be delivered. |
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SOC-AUST AOF EVOLUTION VIDEO
AUSTRALIA: Video: Special Operations Commander Australia talks about the new direction Australian Spec Ops is going. |
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SOC-AUST DEPRIORITISES COUNTER TERRORISM FOCUS
AUSTRALIA: Special Operations Command - Australia will deprioritise Counter Terrorism and refocus on high intensity warfare operations under the latest Army reorganisation. |
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US CONFIRMS RAAF HERC FLEET DOUBLING
USA: The US Department of State has officially approved a doubling of the RAAF's Hercules fleet with new aircraft. |
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AUSTRALIA GIFTS GUCCI MK18s TO SOLOMONS
SOLOMON ISLANDS: Australia has delivered more top shelf custom carbines and tactical vehicles to the Solomon Islands. |
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SWEDEN ABANDONS NH-90 HELO
SWEDEN: The Swedes will replace the NH-90 (MRH-90 in ADF service) with new UH-60M Blackhawks backing up the Aust Army's decision to do the same. Pic Jacek Wojcis |
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RAAF's AP-3C(EW) ORIONS EXTENDED
EDINBURGH SA: The RAAF's AP-3C(EW) Orion fleet has been extended to cover the MC-55A Peregrine delays. |
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USAF BOMBER FACILITIES IN NT
TINDAL: The ABC's sensationalist reporting of works at RAAF Tindal reveal nothing new, with the original aggreement signed in 2012 by PM Gillard and President Obama. |
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EXPANDED FLEET OF NEW HERCS CONFIRMED
CANBERRA: The Dept of Defence has confirmed we are negotiating a big buy of the latest C-130J Hercules airlifters. |
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RAN S100 S2 CAMCOPTER FOCFT
INDIAN OCEAN: The RAN is leveraging Op Indo Pacific Endeavour to conduct First of Class Flight Trials for its Camcopter MTUAS. |
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HMAS ARUNTA NORTH KOREAN MONITORING OPS
EAST SEA: HMAS Arunta has joined United Nations sanctions monitoring of DPRK sanctions violations. |
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9TH (ARMOURED) BRIGADE ACTIVATED
EDINBURGH SA: The Army has commenced its 2028 Army Objective Force reorganisation with the activation of the new heavy armoured 9th Brigade . |
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RAAF C-27J SPARTAN COMMUNICATIONS UPGRADE
AMBERLEY: The RAAF's fleet of C-27J Spartans will have secure communications systems installed under a new upgrade. |
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MORE BUSHMASTERS FOR UKRAINE
CANBERRA: Australia will gift a fourth tranche of additional Bushmaster PMV-Ms to Ukraine's war effort. |
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UKRAINE TRAINING TEAM CONFIRMED
CANBERRA: The Government has confirmed the deployment of an Australian training team to Britain to train Ukrainian combat personnel. |
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DEFENCE FUNDING MAINTAINED
CANBERRA: The Albanese Government has maintained the expanded Defence funding program but has announced few new initiatives. |
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SPIKE LR2 MISSILE INBOUND
CANBERRA: The first tranche of Israeli Spike LR2 missiles for the Australian Army's Boxer CRV Block IIs are inbound. |
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MCX PERSONAL DEFENCE WEAPON DETAILS
AUSTRALIA: The correct configuration and technical specification of the Australian Army's new 7.62x35mm MCX PDW to put to rest the wild rumours. |
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FIJI AUSTRALIA STATUS OF FORCES AGREEMENT
FIJI: Fiji and Australia have signed a Status of Forces Agreement to formalise the legal status of each other forces in each others country. |
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FIRST KIWI BUSHMASTER PMVs SOON
NEW ZEALAND: The first of the New Zealand Army's new Bushmaster 5.5 PMV-Ms is expected to be delivered shortly. |
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KOKODA WANTOK SPECWAREX
AUSTRALIA: Special Forces from Australia, PNG, the USA, New Zealand and France got together for some training prior to walking the Kokoda Track together. |
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ALLIES, LSCO & THE INDOPACIFIC
USA: An Aussie Major General gives a lecture with some insights on the Indo Pacific security threat. Analysis by Maj Gen Chris Smith. |
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INVESTIGATION INTO CHINA AIR COMBAT TRAINING
CANBERRA: The Dept of Defence has launched an investigation to establish if any ex RAAF aircrew are involved in the training of Chinese PLAAF. |
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HMNZS AOTEAROA RETURNS TO OPERATIONS
EAST CHINA SEA: New Zealand's HMNZS Aotearoa is back at work refuelling partner warships in East Asia after a month in dry dock in Singapore. |
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FIRST KF41 LYNX DELIVERED TO HUNGARY
HUNGARY: The first production configuration KF41 Lynx complete with its advanced Australian made turret has been delivered. |
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JOINT AUSTRALIAN TRAINING TEAM - PHILIPPINES
PHILIPPINES: The 3RAR led Land Mobile Training Team 4, part of the Joint Australian Training Team - Philippines has trained hundreds of Filipino recon scouts. |
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BOXER CRV CERTIFIED IOC
BRISBANE: The Australian Army's new Boxer Combat Reconnaissance Vehicles have been Initial Operating Capability certified. |
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M113AS4s ON UKRAINE FRONTLINE
UKRAINE: First pix - Armed Forces of Ukraine have deployed Australian donated M113AS4s into the combat zone in northern Ukraine. Pic Twitter |
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SOME MOVEMENT ON ARMY'S APACHE BUY
USA: Contracts for sub systems for the Australian Army's AH-64Ev6 Apaches have been signed but the Albanese Govt hasn't confirmed the chopper buy. |
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155mm RDM ASSEGAI AMMO MID 2023
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Army will introduce its next gen 155mm RDM Assegai munitions into regimental service mid next year. |
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EXPANSION OF MILITARY LINKS WITH PACIFIC ISLANDS
CANBERRA: The Government is proposing a significant expansion of its military train and equip program for Pacific Island nations and Timor Leste. |
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AUSTRALIA CONSIDERING UK UKRAINE TRAINING TEAM
CANBERRA: The Government is considering deploying a combat training team to the UK to support the training of Ukrainian soldiers. |
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MARINE ROTATIONAL FORCE - DARWIN 22 ENDS
DARWIN NT: The US Marine Corps has successfully completed its 11th extended Dry Season large force deployment to Australia. |
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4TH ECCPB PATROL BOAT LAUNCHED
HENDERSON WA: The fourth Evolved Cape Class Patrol Boat is in fit out at Austal in Western Australia after launch. |
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BUSHMASTER COMBAT LOSSES IN UKRAINE
UKRAINE: Ukraine is employing Aussie made Bushmasters as infantry fighting vehicles at the very Foward Edge of Battle Area. |
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RAN MISSILE CORVETTE FLEET?
CANBERRA: The Government is exploring the potential of a large fleet of fast missile armed corvettes for the RAN. |
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LOCKHEED MARTIN BACKS UH-60M BUY
BRISBANE: Lockheed Martin has confirmed that it can still meet the Army's expedited Black Hawk buy if the Govt signs contracts. |
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FIFTH ARMIDALE PATROL BOAT DECOMMISSIONS
DARWIN: Another Armidale class Patrol Boat has been decommissioned from service in a ceremony at HMAS Coonawarra in Darwin. |
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RAAF P-8A POSEIDON TO SUPPORT NATO
ITALY: The RAAF has deployed a P-8A Poseidon to Sicily to support NATO maritime surveillance missions. |
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TWO NEW LITHGOW 6.8mm RIFLE PROTOTYPES
AUSTRALIA: Lithgow Arms has developed two advanced 6.8mm prototype battle rifle designs which will soon enter Australian Army trials. |
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NEW SNIPER RIFLE TARGETING SUITE
AUSTRALIA: We examine the next generation AI sniper rifle's advanced optical scope and digital accuracy support suite of sub systems. |
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AUST ARMY'S NEW AUTO SHOTGUN
AUSTRALIA: We take a look at the Army's next generation 12 gauge dual action Combat Shotgun and its high end accessories. |
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AUST ARMY'S TOP SHELF NEW HANDGUN
AUSTRALIA: The Army's next generation SIG Sauer P320 XCarry Pro is an advanced modern handgun at the cutting edge of pistol tech. |
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AUSTRALIAN ARMY'S NEXT GEN SNIPER RIFLES
AUSTRALIA: Two top shelf sniper rifles and an advanced digital optics, laser and ballistics computer are inbound to RAR sniper cells. |
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ARMY ANNOUNCES GUCCI NEW SMALL ARMS
AUSTRALIA: The Army has revealed an advanced line up of new subguns, sniper rifles, shotguns and a gucci new handgun for our Anzacs. |
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NAVANTIA PRESENTS DDG OFFER
CANBERRA: Navantia has formally presented its unsolicited offer to quickly build more destroyers for Australia to the Government. |
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808 SQUADRON WILL FLY NEW MH-60Rs
NSW: The RAN Fleet Air Arms inservice logistics support squadron will fly the new fleet of MH-60Rs. |
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OPERATION RENDER SAFE 2022
TUVALU: Clearance Divers and EOD specialists from New Zealand, Australia, Canada and the US Marines embarked on HMNZS Manawanui to locate WW2 bombs in Tuvalu. |
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EXERCISE CARTWHEEL 2022
FIJI: 8/9RAR and 2/1RNZIR deployed contingents to Fiji to participate in the US Army led cooperative exercise with the Republic of Fiji Military Forces in the Fiji highlands. |
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OPV5 ILLAWARRA KEEL LAYING
HENDERSON WA: The keel laying ceremony for Arafura class OPV5 Illawarra has been conducted in Western Australia. |
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EXERCISE KAKADU 2022
TIMOR SEA: Photostory The RAN's premier international exercise has wrapped up after the largest ever contingent participated in Kakadu 22. Pic Tauri Minogue |
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SINGAPOREANS RETURN TO QLD IN STRENGTH
SHOALWATER BAY QLD: The Singapore Armed Forces have resumed brigade plus training in Australia after the pandemic suspension of exercises. |
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USMC OSPREYS HEAD HOME
HAWAII: USMC Osprey Tiltrotors have flown all the way to Kaneohe Bay in Hawaii after completing their deployment in Australia with Marine Rotational Force - Darwin. |
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ALBANESE GOVT 'REVIEWING' BLACK HAWK BUY
CANBERRA: The Minister of Defence has officially disclosed that he has authorised a 'review' of the previous govt's Black Hawk helicopter acquisition. |
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1ST FUTURE FRIGATE DELIVERY DATE
SCOTLAND: The Minister of Defence has reconfirmed the delayed delivery date of the first Hunter class Future Frigate. |
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RAAF MC-55A PEREGRINE DELAY
USA: The RAAF has announced that the first MC-55A Peregrine Electronic Warfare aircraft will be delivered a little late. |
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ARMY PLANS TO FORWARD STAGE EQUIPMENT
AUSTRALIA: Army is planning to remove significant quantities of equipment and weapons from units and permanently base it at major training areas. |
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INTERGRATOR TUAS PRODUCTION UNDERWAY
BRISBANE: The Australian Army's next generation Insitu Pacific Integrator TUAS is in production with IIS next year. |
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SLIGHT CUT IN FINAL F-35A NUMBERS
CANBERRA: A heavily redacted document released by the Government reveals the final number of F-35As to be acquired. Pic Jeff DeAth |
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BOEING HATS EXPANDS AIRCREW OUTPUT
NOWRA NSW: The contractor run Helicopter Air Training System is expanding aircrew output for the ADF's new helicopter fleets. |
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THE COMBAT DOCTOR
REVIEW: Dank Pronk's The Combat Doctor is a true, sometimes brutal, insight into battlefield trauma medicine in the kinetic action of SOTG's multiple Afghanistan tours. |
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AUSTRALIA'S FIRST MQ-4C TRITON BAMS UNVEILED
PALMDALE USA: Australia's first MQ-4C Triton Broad Area Maritime Surveillance (BAMS) unmanned aerial platform has been unveiled in a ceremony at Palmdale, California. |
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NZ ARMY MRZR ARV IIS
NEW ZEALAND: The New Zealand Army's new Polaris MRZRs are inservice with the Royal New Zealand Infantry Corps. |
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RESTORING ARMY AIR MOBIITY KEY TEST OF MARLES
CANBERRA: Restoring the Australian Army's air mobility by replacing the failed MRH-90 will be a key determinant of the Albanese Govt's defence credentials. |
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BUSHMASTER IN KHARKIV OFFENSIVE VICTORY
UKRAINE: Video: Aussie Bushmaster PMVs' have played a key role in the Kharkiv counteroffensive and the elite forces victory at Izium. |
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USAF TO TRIAL MQ-28A UCAV
USA: The US Air Force is trialling an Australian made MQ-28A Ghost Bat UCAV for its top secret Collaborative Combat Aircraft program. |
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RAN DDG HITS LAND TARGET WITH RGM-84L
GUAM: An Australian Hobart class destroyer has hit a land target with a Harpoon missile for the first time. |
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BUSHMASTERS IN UKRAINE SPEARHEAD
UKRAINE: Aussie made Bushmaster PMV-Ms are operating at the Forward Edge of Battle Area during the massive Ukrainian breakthrough in Kharkiv Oblast. |
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NEW F-35As FLY IN
WILLIAMTOWN NSW: New RAAF F-35A Lightning II Joint Strike Fighters have been delivered to Williamtown. |
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PITCH BLACK FINALE
NORTHERN TERRITORY: Pictorial Ex Pitch Black 22, the largest ever, has ended after three weeks of intense international air combat training. |
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AUSTRALIA GIFTING BUSHMASTERS TO INDONESIA
INDONESIA: Australia is gifting a significant fleet of Bushmaster PMVs to the Indonesian Army for peacekeeping ops. |
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RAAF FLIGHTS INTO TOP SECRET USAF BASE
NEVADA USA: RAAF airlifters having been quietly conducting flights into the USAF ultra secret 'Area 52' near Groom Lake. |
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NZDF ACQUIRING MORE SUREFIRE SUPPRESSORS
NEW ZEALAND: The NZDF and NZ Police are acquiring SureFire small arms suppression systems for their rifle systems. |
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SOGAVARE BACKS DOWN ON WARSHIP ENTRY
SOLOMON ISLANDS: The pro Chinese Prime Minister of the Solomons has partially lifted a ban on Aussie warships ahead of his stay in Australia as the PM's honoured guest. |
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ADV RELIANT ENTERS SERVICE
BRISBANE: The ADF's new Pacific Support Ship ADV Reliant has entered service after a flag raising ceremony in Brisbane on Wednesday. |
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ADF EXPLORING TRAINING TEAM FOR UKRAINE
AUSTRALIA: Australia is considering sending Australian Army training teams to the UK to join the Brit Army led Ukrainian military training program. |
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SOGAVARE BANS RAN, USN & UK WARSHIPS
SOLOMON ISLANDS: The Solomon Island's rapid take over by Communist China is gaining momentum with US, UK and Australian warships now banned from its waters. |
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AUST GIFTS PAC750XLs TO PNGDF
PAPUA NEW GUINEA: Australia is gifting additional extreme STOL aircraft to the PNGDF's Air Transport Wing. |
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RAN SUBMARINERS TO TRAIN ON BRIT SSGNs
UK: Aussie submariners will train on and eventually serve on British nuke SSGN submarines under an AUKUS arrangement. |
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ELECTRONIC WARFARE BUSHMASTER
USA: First image and tech details of the Australian Army's next generation Bushmaster based Electronic Warfare capability. |
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RAAF B-21 ACQUISITION PRACTICALITY
CANBERRA: The B-21's price and planned large production run may make it a good fit in the RAAF's force projection line up if US approval was possible. |
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NZ INFANTRY TRAINING TEAM DEPARTS
NEW ZEALAND: The New Zealand Army's two new Infantry Training Teams have departed for UK to train the Ukrainian Army with the Brits. |
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ADF RESUMES DISCRIMINATORY RECRUITMENT & PROMOTION
CANBERRA: Defence Minister Richard Marles has resumed discriminatory recruitment and promotion within the ADF. |
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MARLES THREATENS BLACK HAWK ACQUISITION
CANBERRA: The Albanese Government's new Defence Minister Richard Marles has threatened the Australian Army's emergency Black Hawk helo acquisition. |
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AUSTRALIAN ARMY UH-60M BLACK HAWK APPROVAL
USA: The US State Department has approved a large Black Hawk acquisition for the Australian Army's two air mobility regiments. |
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POSEIDON HIGH ALTITUDE TORPEDO CAPABILITY
USA: The US Navy has approved the new HAAWC high altitude stand off torpedo capability for the Poseidon paving the way for the RAAF to acquire the weapon. |
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PITCH BLACK TANKERS
NORTHERN TERRITORY: Tankers from Australia and seven other countries are supporting Exercise Pitch Black. |
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PUSH TO BUILD MORE HOBART DDGs
AUSTRALIA: The government will examine accepting Navantia Australia's offer to build additional Hobart class AWDs to fill possible capability gap. |
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ANDURIL XLAUV READY IN 2023
AUSTRALIA: Anduril claims that it will complete the first of the RAN's XLAUV unmanned autonomous submarines next year. |
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BUSHMASTER ePMV CAPABILITY
AUSTRALIA: The Aust Army's prototype battery driven Bushmaster ePMV has extraordinary speed and offroad capability. |
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EXERCISE CHAPEL GOLD 22 THAILAND
THAILAND: The Australian Army has resumed training with the Royal Thai Army after the pandemic during Ex Chapel Gold 22. |
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USAF/RAAF DETERENCE OPS
PACIFIC OCEAN: US Pacific Air Forces has released a striking image of a cutting edge combined RAAF and USAF B-2A stealth bomber package to deter CCP aggression. |
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PITCH BLACK 22 KICKS OFF
NORTHERN TERRITORY: Photostory - Pitch Black 2022 has commenced with an unpredecented gathering of advanced combat aircraft in the Northern Territory. |
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BALLISTIC MISSILE DEFENCE EXERCISE
HAWAII: The RAN participated in a US Navy led air and missile defence ex off Hawaii that saw both air and ballistic missile target drones intercepted. |
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RNZAF P-8A POSEIDON FIRST FLIGHT
USA: The lead aircraft in New Zealand's P-8A Poseidon acquisition has completed its first flight. |
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3RAR D.O.G. TEAM OFF TO UK
SINGLETON: 3RAR's victorious Duke of Gloucesters Cup 2022 team is off to the United Kingdom to represent the Australian Army. |
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SL40 STANDALONE STOCK INSERVICE
AUSTRALIA: The new Lithgow Arms SL40 Standalone Stock module is now in service across Army's close combat elements. |
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5RAR MOVES TO LITTORAL OPS
DARWIN: 5RAR's transition from motorised infantry battalion to Littoral Manoeuvre battalion is underway. |
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NZ ARMY UKRAINE INFANTRY TRAINING TEAMS
NEW ZEALAND: The New Zealand Army is deploying a second, larger, training element to England to support Ukraine. |
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PITCH BLACK 22 AIR FLEET ASSEMBLES
DARWIN: Early arrivals from international contingents have already flown into the Northern Territory ahead of Ex Pitch Black 22. |
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TOP SECRET TECH USED AT BLACK FLAG
USA: The RAAF was involved in highly classified next gen technology validation during Ex Black Flag at Nellis AFB in Nevada back in May. |
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EX SUPER GARUDA 22
INDONESIA: Photostory: 5RAR trains with US Army, Indonesian KOSTRAD and Singaporean troops in Indonesia's South Sumatra. |
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BATTERY POWERED BUSHMASTER TECHNOLOGY DEMONSTRATOR
ADELAIDE: The Australian Army has revealed a battery powered Bushmaster ePMV techology demonstrator prototype. |
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STEEL CUT FOR SIXTH ARAFURA OPV
HENDERSON WA: Work on the sixth Arafura class Offshore Patrol Vessel has commenced in Western Australia. |
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AN/ALQ-249 INC 1 JAMMER ENTERS USN SERVICE
USA: The RAAF's IIS of the AN/ALQ-249 Next Generation Jammer - Mid Band is imminent with the first systems delivered to the US Navy. |
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EX AUSTRALIAN HAMEL GUNS IN COMBAT
UKRAINE: Former Australian Army 105mm Hamel Guns are now in action against the Russians in eastern Ukraine. |
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LUFTWAFFE INBOUND FOR EXTENDED STAY
GERMANY: A German expeditionary air combat element is heading for an extended stay in the Top End. |
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RAN ACCEPTS ADV CAPE PERON
HENDERSON WA: The RAN has accepted the second of eight new Evolved Cape class Patrol Boats from builder Austal. |
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RED FLAG ALASKA ACTIVITY
ALASKA: Photostory - the first imagery to emerge from bilateral US/Australian Ex Red Flag Alaska 22. |
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BRIT OPV NT RESUPPLY
DARWIN: The permanently deployed Brit OPV HMS Spey has followed sister ship HMS Tamar to conduct a resupply visit to Australia. |
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CANBERRA'S RIMPAC USMC AIR OPS
HAWAII: HMAS Canberra has been a key staging site for multiple US Marine Corps aircraft and a launch pad for air assault exercises during RIMPAC 22. |
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FIRST LOCALLY PRODUCED 155mm ROUNDS
MARYBOROUGH QLD: The first Australian manufactured 155mm Rheinmetall Nioa Munitions Assegai artillery projectiles have rolled off the assembly line in Queensland. |
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ZAWAHIRI's KABUL LIFE PROOF OF JOE BIDEN's FOLLY
OPINION: David Kilcullen's hard criticism of the outcomes of the Biden Administration's decision to embrace deliberate defeat in Afghanistan. |
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ARMY TO INCREASE COOPERATION WITH TNI
INDONESIA: The Chief of Army has stated that the Australian Army will expand its training with the Indonesian armed forces. |
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GOVT LAUNCHES 'REVIEW' FREEZING REARMAMENT PROJECTS
CANBERRA: Prime Minister Albanese has launched yet another 'defence review' effectively freezing the major ADF rearmament program underway. |
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AL QAIDA'S ZAWAHIRI KILLED
AFGHANISTAN: Al Qaida boss Ayman al Zawahiri has been killed in a US strike in Afghanistan, making a mockery of the US deal with the Taliban to keep al Qaida out of the country. |
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HMAS PARRAMATTA RETURNS
SYDNEY HARBOUR: HMAS Parramatta has returned to Fleet Base East after her southeast and northeast Asia deployment and Chinese military harrassment. |
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RIMPAC 22 MASSIVE FLEET CONCENTRATION
PACIFIC: Video: The massed warships and submarines of RIMPAC 22 concentrated for a photo and video opportunity. |
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MARTIN BAKER EJECTION SEAT ISSUE
AUSTRALIA: The RAAF has not yet announced any groundings in the wake of the ejection seat CAD fault discovery. Pic Ian Hitchcock |
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RED FLAG ALASKA 22-3
ALASKA: The RAAF has returned to Alaska in strength for Ex Red Flag Alaska 2022-3 with the USAF. |
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EXERCISE KOOLENDONG 22
THE KIMBERLEY & TOP END: Photostory - Aussie Diggers and US Marines conduct high tempo combat training across the top of WA and the NT. |
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MV-22B AAV HANGAR DECK DEBUT
HAWAII: Photostory - RIMPAC has provided the opportunity to validate MV-22B Ospreys can be stowed in an Aussie AAV's Hangar Deck. |
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RAN SUBMARINERS TRAIN ON UK NUKE SUB COURSES
UNITED KINGDOM: Australians have commenced training within British Royal Navy nuclear submarine propulsion courses. |
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USAF STEALTH BOMBERS & RAAF F-35As
KIMBERLEY WA: Photostory - Amazing imagery of USAF B-2A Stealth Bombers and Aussie F-35A Lightning IIs over the remote far northwest. |
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FIRST RNZAF P-8A POSEIDON ROLLS OUT
USA: The first of the RNZAF's new P-8A Poseidon MMMAs has rolled off the Boeing assembly line in the USA. |
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RAAF ACQUISITION OF AGM-158B JASSM-ER APPROVED
USA: The US State Department has approved a large tranche of advanced JASSM-ER missiles for the RAAF. |
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NEW MOBILE AESAR RADARS FOR RAAF
CANBERRA: The RAAF is acquiring a next generation CEA Technologies long range radar system. |
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77 SQN AT RAAF TOWNSVILLE
TOWNSVILLE: The RAAF's 77 Squadron and its F-35A Lightning IIs is temporarily rebased at RAAF Townsville. |
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RNZN UPGRADED ANZAC VIDEO
NEW ZEALAND: Video: Official RNZN video revealing the new systems and capabilities of the upgraded Anzac frigates. |
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2RAR (AMPHIB) RIMPAC 22
HAWAII: Photostory - 2RAR (Amphib) leads the Australian Amphibious Element's Joint Pre Landing Force and is conducting high level training with USMC Marine Recon. |
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SWEDEN HATES NH/MRH-90 TOO
SWEDEN: Sweden has threatened to follow the Australian Defence Force's lead and join Norway in dumping the problematic underperforming NH/MRH-90 helicopter. |
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ADF SEEKS NEW JTAC AIRCRAFT
AUSTRALIA: Defence has released an RFI for new light attack aircraft and simulators to train Aussie JTACs. |
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ARAFURA OPV CREW TRAINING
WESTERN AUSTRALIA: Crew training for the first Arafura class OPV has commenced at Fleet Base West HMAS Stirling. |
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1RAR URBAN TRAINING RIMPAC
HAWAII: Photostory - 1RAR leads USMC, Tongan, Sri Lankan and Malaysian combat elements in RIMPAC air assault and urban ops. |
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USMC MV-22B EMBARKED ON HMAS CANBERRA
HAWAII: The USMC has embarked its awesome MV-22B Osprey tilt rotors on an Aussie warship for the first time for RIMPAC 22. |
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ARMY ELECTRONIC WARFARE EXPANSION
AUSTRALIA: Army is expanding its EW capability with more high fidelity Electronic Warfare systems to detect and jam enemy threats. |
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JOINT AUST/US SPY SATELLITE LAUNCH
NEW ZEALAND: A joint US National Reconnaissance Office & Australian Defence Force surveillance satellite was launched from NZ. |
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CHINESE NAVY HARRASSES HMAS PARRAMATTA
EAST CHINA SEA: Chinese warships and submarines have attempted to disrupt HMAS Parramatta's transit of the East China Sea. |
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MORE B-2A STEALTH BOMBERS AT AMBERLEY
AMBERLEY QLD: Two additional US Air Force Stealth Bombers flew into RAAF Amberley yesterday. Pic Aviation Studio |
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RIMPAC 2022 SNIPER INTERGRATION ACTIVITY
HAWAII: Aussie snipers have integrated with their USMC, Mexican, South Korean and Indonesian opposites for sniper competitions at RIMPAC. |
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AUSTRALIA REARMS RSIPF WITH MK18 SBR
SOLOMON ISLANDS: Australia has funded the rearmament of the Royal Solomon Islands Police Force with a gucci Close Combat Weapon. |
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B-2A SPIRIT BOMBERS AT AMBERLEY
AMBERLEY QLD: Two US Air Force Stealth Bombers flew into RAAF Amberley this afternoon. Pic Aviation Studio |
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HMNZS TE MANA RETURNS HOME
NEW ZEALAND: The RNZN's HMNZS Te Mana has returned to Devonport Naval Base in Auckland after completing her FCSUP upgrade. |
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RAN JOINS EAST CHINA SEA FONOP
EAST CHINA SEA: An RAN warship has participated in a Freedom of Navigation Operations in the East China Sea in defiance of Chinese demands. |
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RAN RGM-184A NSM MISSILE CONTRACTS
NORWAY: The RAN's fast tracked next gen Anti Ship Missile acquisition is underway with contracts for initial systems finalised. |
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BOXER CRV BLK 1 AMPHIB VIDEO
CORAL SEA: Video: The Australian Army is introducing its Boxer CRV guncar to amphibious operations off North Queensland. |
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NEW WA ENGINEERING REGIMENT RAISED
WESTERN AUSTRALIA: The Army has established a new Engineering Regiment in Western Australia to support the major land combat expansion underway. |
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HMAS ARARAT DECOMMISSIONED
DARWIN NT: The RAN Armidale class Patrol Boat HMAS Ararat was decommissioned from service over the weekend. |
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AUSSIE 105mm 'HAMEL GUNS' FOR UKRAINE
ENGLAND: Former Australian Army Hamel Guns are being gifted to Ukraine after being bought by the Brits from Aussie stores. |
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ALBANESE GOVT MILITARY AID TO UKRAINE
UKRAINE: The Prime Minister announced the latest Australian gift of armoured vehicles and funding for ammunition for Ukraine in Kiev. |
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GUARDIAN PB EXHAUST ISSUE
AUSTRALIA: Defence has detected a potential technical fault with the Guardian class Patrol Boats gifted to Pacific nations. |
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NEW RAAF F-35A PRODUCTION
USA: Four more RAAF F-35A Lightning IIs are flying in Texas ahead of their handover to Australia in the near future. |
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RIMPAC 2022 KICKS OFF
HAWAII: The Royal Australian Navy and Royal New Zealand Navy are berthed at the US Navy's famous Joint Base Pearl Harbor Hickam for RIMPAC 2022. |
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NEW US ARMY LIGHT TANK
USA: The US Army is introducing an entirely new light tank to support its Infantry Brigade Combat Teams in close combat. |
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USAF LANCERS OVER DARWIN
DARWIN NT: Two USAF B-1B Lancer heavy bombers briefly operated out of RAAF Darwin during Ex Diamond Storm 2022. |
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CONTROVERSIAL CDF CAMPBELL EXTENDED
CANBERRA: The Albanese Government has extended the tenure of controversial Chief of Defence Force General Angus Campbell. |
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NAVAL SHOW OF FORCE
CENTRAL PACIFIC: Photostory - the Royal Australian Navy has joined up with the US Navy and Japanese JMSDF in an impressive display of naval combat power. |
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RNZAF UKRAINE AIRLIFT ENDS
NEW ZEALAND: The RNZAF's mission to Europe to support the NATO military aid mission to Ukraine mission is complete. |
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TOP END SPECIAL OPERATIONS
NORTHERN TERRITORY: Photostory: Australian Special Opertions Forces conduct parachute, vehicle mounted and fast rope exercises in the NT Top End. |
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ARMY INTEGRATOR TUAS OPCON
TOWNSVILLE: The Australian Army's has commenced preliminary training for the introduction of the next generation Integrator Tactical Unmanned Aerial System. |
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TWO ADDITIONAL CH-47F CHINOOKS DELIVERED
TOWNSVILLE: The Australian Army's Chinook fleet has expanded with the delivery of new helicopters to Townsville. |
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UKRAINE FRONTLINE BUSHMASTER OPS
UKRAINE: New imagery of Australian gifted Bushmaster PMV-Ms on the frontline in Ukraine's heavily contested 'east' have emerged. |
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US APPROVES AGM-88E2 FOR RAAF
USA: The US Government has approved the latest AGM-88E2 AARGM-E2 missiles for use on the RAAF's Growler Airborne Electronic Attack aircraft. |
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M252A1 81mm MORTAR OPCON
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Army's partial transition to the new 81mm Mortar System is advancing towards completion. |
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PACIFIC SUPPORT VESSEL INBOUND
PACIFIC OCEAN: The new Pacific Support Vessel ADV Reliant is inbound to Fleet Base East with operational deployment later this year. |
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RUMOURS - LAND 400 PHASE 3 SLASHED
CANBERRA: Mainstream media is reporting that the Albanese Government is preparing to slash Army's key Project Land 400/3 AFV buy. |
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AUSSIE M113AS4s IN UKRAINE
UKRAINE: The first of the M113AS4 APCs gifted to Ukraine are in Armed Forces of Ukraine service. |
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ADV OTWAY DEPLOYS TO DARWIN
DARWIN: The first of the RAN's next generation patrol boats has deployed to the Northern Territory. |
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US GOVT LEGISLATION FOR RAN SSGN TRAINING
USA: The Congressional AUKUS working group has tabled legislation authorising nuclear submarine training for RAN officers. |
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RAAF 82 WING PHOTEX
PACIFIC OCEAN: Photostory: The RAAF Amberley based 82 Wing showed off its Rhinos and Growlers in a very cool Photography Exercise over the sea of Queensland. |
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SWBTA 155mm PGM PRECISION FIRES
SHOALWATER BAY: The RAA is expanding its training with advanced precision guided, discriminating, semi loitering and course correcting munitions. |
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TRACKED 'BOXER' COMBAT VEHICLE
FRANCE: German tank legend KMW has released a new 'Tracked Boxer' platform that integrates the Boxer CRV mission modules in service with the Australian Army. |
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ADF CONTINGENT SAILS FOR RIMPAC
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Defence Force contingent for Ex RIMPAC 2022 has sailed for Hawaii and the mega ex. |
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NORWAY DITCHES FRENCH HELO
NORWAY: The Norwegian Navy has followed Australia's lead and has withdrawn the NH90 from service. And, it also wants its money back. |
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$830 MILLION FRENCH SUB TERMINATION PAYMENT
CANBERRA: The Albanese Government has approved a French demand for a $830 million termination payment for the never designed Attack class subs. |
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US NAVY MQ-4C TESTING PROGRESSES
USA: The RAAF's MQ-4C Triton BAMS acquisition is regaining momentum after the US Navy resumed its own introduction into service testing. |
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VIRGINIA CLASS SSGN BUY
CANBERRA: The former Government was negotiating to buy two new Virginia class nuclear submarines directly from the US production line. |
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A44-223 DAMAGE REPORT REVEALED
CANBERRA: The ADF Defence Flight Safety Bureau report into the December 2020 Super Hornet ejection at Amberley has been revealed. |
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CHINA DIRECTLY THREATENS ADF
CHINA: The Chinese foreign ministry has made a veiled but direct threat towards Australian military aircraft and ships. |
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FIRST eNASAMS LAUNCHERS IN AUSTRALIA
ADELAIDE: The first eNASAMS cannister launchers have arrived in Australia ahead of their entry into Australian Army service. |
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GOVERNMENT COMMITS TO SSGN
CANBERRA: The new Defence Minister has stated that the Government's highest priority is the introduction of a nuclear powered submarine fleet. |
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WRECKED SAMOAN GPB TO BE REPLACED
CANBERRA: Australia will fund the replacement of the almost brand new Samoa Police Service patrol boat wrecked in 2021. |
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CHINESE FIGHTER THREATENS RAAF P-8A
SOUTH CHINA SEA: A Chinese fighter conducted a reckless and extremely dangerous interception of an RAAF P-8A Poseidon. |
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SIR JOHN MONASH & GREAT POWER CONFLICT IN WORLD WAR 1
OPINION: The Australian Army Knowledge Centre has analysed the key attributes of General Sir John Monash with a view to preparing modern Anzacs. |
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HMNZS TE MANA DEPARTS CANADA
CANADA: The Royal New Zealand Navy over budget and over schedule upgrade is finally over with HMNZS Te Mana bound for home. |
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MARLES SWORN IN AS MINISTER OF DEFENCE
CANBERRA: Prime Minister Albanese has appointed Richard Marles, an outspoken advocate for China's move into the Pacific Islands, as Minister of Defence. |
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AUSSIE ARTY IN ACTION
UKRAINE: The former Australian Army 155mm artillery guns donated to Ukraine are now engaging Russian targets in the East. |
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RAAF F-35A COUNT HITS 50
WILLIAMTOWN NSW: At least two new F-35A Lightning II Joint Strike Fighters have joined the RAAF fleet. |
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M57 ATACMS MOD TACTICAL BALLISTIC MISSILE
USA: The Australian Army's acquisition of the M142 HIMARS is also an acquisition of the M57 ATACMS MOD ballistic missile which changes everything. |
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EX DIAMOND STORM KICKS OFF
NORTHERN TERRITORY: The RAAF's premier advanced combat course is in the final strait with Ex Diamond Storm in the NT Top End underway. |
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FIRST BUSHMASTER LOST IN UKRAINE
UKRAINE: The first confirmed loss of an Aussie Bushmaster in Ukraine has been published on Russian social media. |
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US APPROVES AUSSIE M142 HIMARS
USA: The US Army has approved a major acquisition of M142 HIMARS and guided rockets and missiles for the Australian Army. |
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LAVARACK OPERATIONAL TRAINING FACILITY
TOWNSVILLE QLD: A new Operational Training Facility has opened at Lavarack Barracks enabling inhouse digitally supported non lethal munitions urban training. |
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STALWART COMPLETES FIRST RAS
PACIFIC OCEAN: The RAN's new tanker HMAS Stalwart has completed her first operational refuelling of an RAN warship at sea. |
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NEW GOVT WILL MAINTAIN DEFENCE SETTINGS
CANBERRA: The new Prime Minister has stated his Government will maintain current defence policy settings, but has already promised a new review. |
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NZ ARMY TRAINING UKRAINIANS
UNITED KINGDOM: New Zealand has deployed an Army training team to Britain to train Ukrainian gunners. |
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RAAF WEDGETAIL CENTRAL TO BLACK FLAG
NEVADA USA: The RAAF's flagship E-7A Wedgetail was a major focus of the USAF's highly classified Black Flag 2022-1 activities. |
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UKRAINE WAR MAY DELAY AUSSIE M1A2s
USA: Russia's invasion of Ukraine looks set to complicate the Australian Army's transition to next gen Abrams MBTs. |
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EX TAGATA TOA
NEW CALEDONIA: Photostory. 6RAR and 1RNZIR train with the French RIMaP Marines in Nouvelle Caledonie. |
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MORE BUSHMASTERS & APCs BOUND FOR UKRAINE
UKRAINE: Australia is donating more PMVs and some upgraded APCs to support Ukraine's fight against the Russian invasion. |
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RAAF INVOLVED IN SECRETIVE EX BLACK FLAG
NELLIS: Australian F-35A Lightning IIs are involved with the USAF's cutting edge and secretive Exercise Black Flag 2022-1 underway outside Las Vegas. |
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EX ADF WEAPONS IN ACTION IN UKRAINE
UKRAINE: Ex Australian Army Bushmaster PMV-Ms and 155mm artillery guns are in action against the Russian invasion on Ukraine's eastern front. |
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MORE MQ-28A UCAV FUNDING
AUSTRALIA: The Government has announced a major increase in funding for the MQ-28A combat drone and seven new airframes. |
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ADF TRACKS CHINESE SPY SHIP OFF WA
INDIAN OCEAN: Another Chinese intelligence gathering warship is conducting an aggressive mission close to classified ADF installations. |
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NEW RAAF LRIP14 F-35As FLYING IN USA
TEXAS USA: The first of 15 new RAAF LRIP14 Lightning IIs have been photographed flying out of Lockheed Martin in Texas. |
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RAN FUNDS THREE AUV PROGRAMS
AUSTRALIA: The RAN is involved in three separate very high tech Autonomous Undersea Vehicle development programs. |
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EOS R400M RWS FOR LCM8 REPLACEMENT
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Army's next generation landing craft will be armed with the EOS R400-Marine Naval Remote Weapons Station. |
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UNMANNED PATROL BOAT TRIALS
AUSTRALIA: The Royal Australian Navy will modify a decommissioned ACPB to conduct autonomous and remotely piloted surface warship technology trials. |
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US BULK FUEL STORAGE AT TINDAL
TINDAL NT: The US Navy is building a 6 million litre fuel farm at RAAF Tindal under the Australia/US Force Posture Initiative. |
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ARMED CHINESE IN HONIARA
SOLOMON ISLANDS: The first armed Chinese security personnel are now active in Honiara with approval of the Sogavare government. |
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LOST MH-60R ROMEO TO BE REPLACED
CANBERRA: The PM's reconfirmation of the AH-64Ev6 Apache and additional MH-60R Romeo acquisitions also announced the replacement of the MH-60R lost in 2021. |
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FIRST LOOK AT RAAF's MC-55A PEREGRINE
GEORGIA USA: One of the RAAF's highly classified MC-55A Peregrine's has been photographed by Plane Spotters in the USA. Pic Aaron Perlupe |
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RIM-162 ESSM BLOCK II ENTERS RAN SERVICE
AUSTRALIA: The RAN RIM-162 Evolved Sea Sparrow Missile Block II introduction into service is underway in Australia. |
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LAST BUSHMASTERS & ARTY IN EUROPE
UKRAINE: The last of the Australian donated Bushmaster PMV-Ms and M777A2 guns are in Ukrainian hands. |
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HUNTER FFG CLOSE DEFENCE GUNS
AUSTRALIA: The RAN's next generation Hunter class Future Frigates will be armed with multiple Israeli Rafael Typhoon Mk 30C gun systems. |
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RAAF F-35As & E-7As FLYING OUT OF NELLIS AFB
NEVADA USA: RAAF F-35A Lightning IIs and a E-7A Wedgetail are operating at Nellis AFB near Las Vegas. |
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ARMY QUALIFICATION & TRAINING CRISIS
AUSTRALIA: Two and a half years of back to back pandemic and disaster relief ops, IGADF outcomes and politicisation has resulted in serious Army skill qualification and validation shortcomings. |
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MRF-D22 COMMENCES FIELD TRAINING
DARWIN NT: Marine Rotational Force - Darwin 2022 has commenced small unit and skills training in the Northern Territory. |
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US NUKE SUB EXPEDITIONARY REARMAMENT
FLEET BASE WEST: The RAN has quietly validated its ability to rearm US Navy nuclear submarines during an Ex in WA. |
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51RNQR REGIONAL SUPPORT CRAFT
TORRES STRAIT: The new Regional Support Craft has entered service with 51RNQR to conduct patrols from Thursday Island. |
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RAN S100 S2 CAMCOPTER ACQUISITION
AUSTRALIA: The RAN will acquire a large fleet of new Schiebel S100 S2 Maritime Tactical Unmanned Aerial Systems under Project Sea 129. |
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HMAS MAITLAND DECOMMISSIONED
DARWIN NT: The RAN has decommissioned its second Armidale class Patrol Boat at a ceremony in Darwin Harbour. |
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UKRAINE INTRODUCES BUSHMASTER PMV
UKRAINE: The first imagery of Ukrainian soldiers training on the Bushmaster PMV has emerged from the warzone. |
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AUSSIE 155mm ARTY FOR UKRAINE
AMBERLEY QLD: The RAAF has airlifted gifted Australian Army 155mm M777A2 LTWs to Poland for Ukraine. |
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RNZAF AIRLIFTER FLYING UKRAINE AID
BRIZE NORTON UK: An RNZAF C-130H Herc is flying intra-theatre airlift support missions in support of Ukraine across Europe. |
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BUSHMASTERS FLOW TO UKRAINE
AMBERLEY QLD: Australia's gifted Bushmaster PMVs are mostly already in theatre and some are surprisingly tooled up. |
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US NUKE SSG DOCKS IN WA
ROCKINGHAM WA: A US Navy nuclear powered submarine has returned to Fleet Base West for the first time since the pandemic commenced. |
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NZDF SELLS 22 NZLAV GUN CARS
NEW ZEALAND: New Zealand has sold off 20 percent of its modern armoured fighting vehicle fleet to the Chilean Marine Corps. |
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AN/ALQ-249/1 NEXT GENERATION JAMMER IIS
USA: Preliminary personnel qualification ahead of the RAAF's introduction of the game changing Next Generation Jammer for the Growler fleet has commenced. |
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USMC F-35Bs FOR PITCH BLACK 2022
AUSTRALIA: In a first, the US Marine Corps will deploy a contingent of F-35B Lightnings to the Northern Territory for Exercise Pitch Black 22. |
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HMAS TOOWOOMBA RELAUNCHED AFTER UPGRADE
HENDERSON WA: HMAS Toowoomba has completed the dry dock phase of her AMCAP upgrade and is set to commence sea and harbour trials. |
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US ARMY SELECTS NGSW RIFLE & MG
USA: The US Army has announced the selection of its Next Generation Squad Weapons to replace the M4 and M249 SAW. |
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AUSSIE CDO, US NAVY SEAL, FILIPINO SOG SPECIAL RECOVERY
PHILIPPINES: Photostory - Australian Special Operations Forces and US Navy SEALs in Direct Action missions in ultra stealthy SEAL assault craft. |
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DJIBOUTI & SOGAVARE'S DEAL WITH CHINA
OPINION: The Australian Strategic Policy Insitute analyses the danger of the Solomon's alliance with China's regime. Analysis by Michael Shoebridge |
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TWO ADDITIONAL ECCPBS FOR RAN
HENDERSON WA: The RAN will acquire two additional Evolved Cape Class Patrol Boats for its expanded sovereignty enforcement fleet. |
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MRF-D22 AIR COMBAT ELEMENT
DARWIN NT: Marine Rotational Force - Darwin 2022's Air Combat Element is operational in support of Northern Territory based US and Australian elements. |
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NEXT GEN SNIPER & CLOSE COMBAT WEAPONS APPROVED
AUSTRALIA: The Army's new sniper rifles, pistols, ultra compacts, PDWs, shotguns and combat knives have been approved but not publicly revealed. |
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JASSM-ER & LRASM WILL REVOLUTIONISE RAAF
AUSTRALIA: The RAAF's next gen long range missiles will transform Australia's ability to smash an opponent from a distance. |
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COMMANDO & SEAL SHOOT
PHILIPPINES: Video: Elite 2 Commando Regiment specialists team up with US Navy SEALs and Philippine Navy SOG for a combined M4 and pistol shoot. |
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NZ DEPLOY C-130H & LOG TEAM TO NATO
NEW ZEALAND: New Zealand has commenced funding weapons and is deploying a C-130H, logistics and Intel teams to NATO to support Ukraine. |
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AUSSIE COMMANDOS IN PALAWAN
PHILIPINNES: Photostory - Australian Special Operations Forces were in the PI training with Philippine Navy SOG and US Navy SEALs. |
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ARMY INTRODUCING AMCU CAP
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Army is rolling out a new baseball style AMCU camouflage cap as an alternative field dress head wear. |
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BUSHMASTERS AIRLIFT UNDERWAY
AMBERLEY QLD: The first C-17A load of Bushmaster PMV-Ms for Ukraine is airborne and bound for eastern Europe. |
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PACIFIC SUPPORT VESSEL ACQUIRED
CANARY ISLANDS: The Department of Defence has acquired an advanced Offshore Support Ship as the Pacific Support Vessel. |
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F/A-18F A44-223 BACK IN SERVICE
AMBERLEY QLD: The RAAF Super Hornet involved in the crew ejection back in 2020 has returned to service. |
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RUMOURED LAND 400/3 IFV CUTS
CANBERRA: Mainstream media is reporting rumours that Army's premier armoured vehicle upgrade program is facing cuts and rescheduling. |
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FIRST UKRAINIAN BUSHMASTERS INBOUND
BRISBANE: The first Bushmaster PMV-Ms bound for Ukraine have been repainted and shipped to Amberley for airlift to the battlefront. |
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LONG RANGE STRIKE MISSILES & SMART SEA MINES INBOUND
CANBERRA: The ADF is tooling up fast, with expedited long range stand off air and sea launched missiles and advanced smart mines. |
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REPLACEMENT EA-18G GROWLER
CANBERRA: An EA-18G Growler is being acquired to restore the RAAF's Growler based Airborne Electronic Attack capability. |
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RAAF MQ-9B TUAS CANCELLED
CANBERRA: The RAAF's impending acquisition of the MQ-9B SkyGuardian Reaper derivitive armed drone has been cancelled. |
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BUSHMASTERS BOUND FOR UKRAINE
CANBERRA: Australia will airlift Bushmaster PMVs to Poland after a direct request from the Ukranian President for the combat proven armour. |
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THIRD UKRAINE MILITARY AID PACKAGE
CANBERRA: Australia will provide a third military aid package to Ukraine to assist in its defence against the Russian invasion. |
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US ARMY MISSILES & ROCKETS INBOUND
DARWIN: The US Army will bring advanced air defence missiles and rocket artillery for their MRF-D extended deployment. |
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UKRAINE WEAPONS AIRLIFT CONTINUES
POLAND: The RAAF airlift of military aid to Ukraine continues and will soon include New Zealand military supplies. |
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CHINA SECURITY TEAM ACTIVE IN HONIARA
SOLOMON ISLANDS: Chinese paramilitary police are already active teaching population control techniques to the RSIPF. |
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RAAF KC-30A IN JAPAN FOR TRIALS
TOKYO: A RAAF KC-30A has deployed to Japan to conduct inflight refuelling trials with the Japanese JASDF. |
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US NAVY RENEWS MQ-4C TRITON REQUESTS
USA: The US Navy has resumed MQ-4C Triton requests, potentially stabilising the RAAF's acquisition of the HALE surveillance drone. |
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REDBACK AS21 VIDEO
GEELONG VIC: VIDEO Hanwha Defense Australia has released a video showing the AS21 Redback's case to win Project Land 400 Phase 3. |
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CANADA SELECTS F-35 LIGHTNING
CANADA: Canada has resellected the F-35 Lightning II seven years and over a billion dollars after cancelling its original requirement for advanced 5th gen aircraft. |
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US COMMITMENT TO 6.8mm EXPANDS
USA: The US Army is seeking options to rechamber its existing 7.62mm machine guns to the new 6.8 General Purpose round, further evidence that it is serious about saying goodbye to 5.56 and 7.62mm. |
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SOLOMONS MILITARY PACT WITH CHINA
SOLOMON ISLANDS: The anti Australian government of the Solomon Islands has signed a military entry agreement with Communist China. |
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EXERCISE DIAMOND SHIELD 2022
WILLIAMTOWN/AMBERLEY: Pictorial of outstanding images from Diamond Shield captured by aviation photographers at Williamtown and Amberley. Pic Caelan McDougall. |
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RAAF DELIVERS MORE WEAPONS FOR UKRAINE
POLAND: The RAAF has completed another airlift of military aid and weapons for Ukraine to Poland. |
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B-2A STEALTH BOMBER AT AMBERLEY
AMBERLEY QLD: An advanced USAF Stealth Bomber has joined the recent US Air Force activity at the Queensland RAAF base. |
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RAN ACCEPTS ECCPB ADV CAPE OTWAY
HENDERSON WA: The RAN has accepted its first Evolved Cape class Patrol Boat ADV Cape Otway from builder Austal. |
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DEFENCE SPACE COMMAND COMMENCES OPS
FAIRBAIRN ACT: The RAAF's Defence Space Command commenced operations today, managing Australia's exo atmospheric military operations. |
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LOYAL WINGMAN UCAV DESIGNATED MQ-28A
AMBERLEY: The Boeing/RAAF developed Loyal Wingman ATS advanced UCAV has been officially designated as the MQ-28A Ghost Bat at a ceremony today. |
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TRILATERAL SOUTH CHINA SEA TRANSIT
SOUTH CHINA SEA: HMAS Arunta has participated in a combined transit of the South China Sea with US and Japanese destroyers. |
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RNZAF P-8A BUILD GAINS MOMENTUM
USA: New Zealand's acquisition of the P-8A Poseidon is gaining momentum with two airframes under assembly ahead of entering service next year. |
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SECOND WEAPONS PACKAGE FOR UKRAINE
AUSTRALIA: The Government is preparing a second, larger, weapons and military aid package for Ukraine. |
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ADF MUNITIONS DELIVERIES COMPROMISED
HIGH SEAS: Deliveries of ADF munitions and weapons system have been compromised by the sanctions on Russia which includes bans on Russian seafarers. |
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US & UK NUKE SUBS SUPPORT
ROCKINGHAM WA: The RAN's Fleet Base West will be expanded as a major operational support centre for US Navy and Royal Navy nuclear submarines. |
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RNZN SELLS TWO IPVs
NEW ZEALAND: New Zealand is selling two of its problematic Lake class Inshore Patrol Vessels after decommissioning them early in 2019. |
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SAFRAN DTCS TARGETING SYSTEMS
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Army is acquiring advanced man portable digital multispectral target surveillance and grid reference generation systems for JTACs and JFOs. |
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THIRD RAAF AIRLIFT FOR UKRAINE
POLAND: An RAAF C-17A has completed the third airlift of military supplies and weapons to Poland for the Ukraine Armed Forces. |
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USAF AGGRESSORS DEPLOY TO AUSTRALIA
AMBERLEY QLD: Camouflaged F-16C Aggressors are flying out of RAAF Amberley to support the RAAF's air combat training program. Pic Full Throttle Photography |
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MRF-D MARINES RETURN TO DARWIN
DARWIN: The first elements of Marine Rotational Force - Darwin 2022 have arrived in Darwin ahead of the first US Army extended deployment elements. |
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HUNTSMAN FIRE CONTROL SYSTEM
NORWAY: Contracts for the Australian Army's future Huntsman Self Propelled Artillery System digital command and fire control systems have been finalised. |
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IRAN MISSILE ATTACK ON CJTF-OIR
IRAQ: Iran has attacked the Coalition facility at Erbil Airport, where Australian military personnel are known to operate, with ballistic missiles. |
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ARMY SELECT INSITU INTEGRATOR TUAS
CANBERRA: The long endurance Insitu Integrator will replace Army's combat proven RQ-7B Shadow 200 TUAS from next year. |
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LAND 400 PHASE 3 DECISION IMMINENT
CANBERRA: The announcement of which AFV has won the Land 400/3 contract is imminent with one mainstream media outlet claiming it has inside info and has named a 'winner'. |
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2ND RAAF AIRLIFT OF WEAPONS FOR UKRAINE
POLAND: The RAAF has successfully delivered a second shipment of weapons and military equipment for Ukraine to a forward airbase in Poland. |
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MAJOR ADF PERSONNEL EXPANSION
CANBERRA: The Australian Defence Force will undergo the largest personnel expansion in almost 60 years as the security situation deteriorates. |
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NEW M1A2C WILL BE US ARMY SPEC
CANBERRA: The Australian Army's next generation Abrams will be all but identical to the latest US Army Abrams MBTs. |
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TE MANA IN FINAL SEA TRIALS
CANADA: New Zealand's second Anzac frigate HMNZS Te Mana is completely upgraded and undergoing final trials before sailing for home. |
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INTERIM BMS COMMAND & CONTROL ENTERS SERVICE
TOWNSVILLE: 3 Brigade headquarters, signals and joint fires specialists have been trained on the new Interim - Battle Management System. |
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NEW EAST COAST NAVAL BASE
CANBERRA: The Government has announced a shortlist of three locations for a new major Royal Australian Navy base to support surface fleet and submarine operations. |
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SECOND EVOLVED CAPE CLASS PB LAUNCHED
HENDERSON WA: Another Evolved Cape class Patrol Boat for the RAN has been launched by Austal Australia in WA. |
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HAWKEI PMV-L ACCEPTANCE DELAYS
BENDIGO VIC: Hawkei Protected Mobility Vehicle - Light entry into service has been delayed by the Anti Lock Braking System issue fix implementation. |
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LAND 4100 STRIKEMASTER RGM-184A NSM
AUSTRALIA: Kongsberg has developed a Bushmaster mounted Naval Strike Missile mobile launcher for the Aussie Army's Project Land 4100. |
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RAAF UKRAINE MILITARY AID DELIVERY
NATO TERRITORY: The RAAF has completed the first delivery of ADF military stores to Europe to resupply Ukraine's war effort as the Govt with more help inbound. |
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QUEENSLAND FLOOD ASSIST
SE QLD: The Australian Defence Force has deployed to southeast Queensland and northeast New South Wales in response to the massive flooding event. |
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AUSTRALIA TO FUND UKRAINIAN WEAPONS
AUSTRALIA: Australia will donate significant sums to the NATO led fund to buy new weapons for the Armed Forces of Ukraine. |
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WEAKNESS HAS DELIVERED US WAR
EDITORIAL: The humiliation of Western military power in Afghanistan enabled the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Editorial by John Hunter Farrell |
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EXERCISE COPE NORTH PICTORIAL
GUAM: Outstanding aerial imagery of the Australian, US and Japanese contingents over the Philippine Sea and Mariana Islands during Cope North 22. |
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ARMY ACQUIRES TYPE 163 LASER TARGET DESIGNATOR
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Army is acquiring the advanced lightweight Leonardo Type 163 Laser Target Designator for JTACs and JFOs. |
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RAAF UPGRADE'S AIRLIFTER MISSILE DEFENCE
USA: The US Government has approved an upgrade of the missile defence systems on RAAF airlifters and tankers to the latest configuration. |
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HANWHA FACTORY TO BE BUILT AT AVALON
GEELONG: The new factory to buid the Army's next gen 155mm Self Propelled Howitzers is being built at Avalon Airport. |
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AUSTRALIA TO EXPAND ANTARCTIC SURVEILLANCE CAPABILITY
ANTARCTICA: Australia will deploy new specialist helicopters, aircraft, UAVs and ground vehicles to Antarctica to monitor hostile incursions into our territory. |
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RAAF TO RETAIN & UPGRADE HAWK 127
AUSTRALIA: The RAAF has opted to upgrade its Hawk 127+ Lead In Fighter Trainers rather than replace them with a new fast jet trainer. |
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CHINESE NAVAL INTIMIDATION
ARAFURA/CORAL SEAS: The aggressive Chinese Navy incursion into Australian waters was bigger, more provocative and a lot closer than the public realises. |
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FOUR NEW F-35A LIGHTNINGS
WILLIAMTOWN NSW: Four new F-35A Lightnings fresh off the assembly line are being delivered to Williamtown for the RAAF fleet. |
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EMERGENCY AIRLIFT INTO SOLOMONS
SOLOMON ISLANDS: The ADF is conducting a major emergency airlift of medical supplies and foodstuffs into the Solomons after the pandemic breakout has caused critical shortages. |
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RAAF DEFENDS F-35A FLEET
AUSTRALIA: The Chief of Air Force's has aggressively rejected claims made in mainstream media about RAAF F-35A availability after an official flying hour reduction. |
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HEAVY ARMOUR RELEVANCE
AUSTRALIA: Despite all the talk to the contrary, Russia, Ukraine and NATO have all opted for heavy armour and armoured artillery as their primary provocation/defence/deterrence tools in the face off in Ukraine. |
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RAAF SOUTH CHINA SEA SURVEILLANCE
SOUTH CHINA SEA: RAAF P-8A Poseidon operations are watching Chinese military activities in the South China Sea as Russia threatens war in Europe. |
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ATATA ISLAND TSUNAMI CLEAN UP
TONGA: The pandemic delayed Op Tonga Assist HADR response element is hard at work on the Tongan island of Atata. |
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HMNZS AOTEAROA ANTARCTIC SUPPLY MISSION
ANTARCTICA: New Zealand's new AOR HMNZS Aotearoa is conducting the RNZN's first resupply voyage to Antarctica for 50 years. |
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HANWHA AUST TO SUPPORT REDBACK US ARMY BID
AUSTRALIA: Hanwha Defense Australia will play a direct role in support of the Oshkosh/Hanwha bid to replace the US Army's M2 Bradley IFV. |
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HUNTER CLASS SDR REVIEW COMPLETE
OSBORNE SA: The Hunter class Future Frigate Systems Design Review is complete allowing Project Sea 5000 to progress to the Preliminary Design Review at last. |
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USAF MOVES ON WEDGETAIL
USA: The USAF is following in the RAAF's footsteps and has formally released an RFI which is likely to result in an urgent E-7 Wedgetail acquisition. |
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ADF PILOT TRAINING SYSTEM FINAL ACCEPTANCE
AUSTRALIA: The final components of the ADF's joint Pilot Training System have achieved formal acceptance by the Dept of Defence. |
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RAAF F-35A LIGHTNING II DEVELOPMENTS
AUSTRALIA: The RAAF's F-35A fleet is expanding with new capabilities added now that it has assumed the Australian air defence mission. Pic Adams Aero Pix |
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ADF HADR ASHORE IN TONGA
TONGA: Australian Defence Force and Department of Foreign Affairs & Trade crisis response team personnel are now ashore in Tonga and have commenced HADR ops. |
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EXERCISE PACIFIC DEFENDER 22
GUAM: Australian RAAF and US Air Force security ground combat elements are conducting an expert subject matter exchange bilateral training event. |
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AGM-179 JAGM ENTERS USMC SERVICE
USA: The USMC has completed trials of the new AGM-179 JAGM missile on its AH-1Z Viper gunship helicopters ahead of a decision on force level fielding. |
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EXERCISE COPE NORTH 22
GUAM: The annual combined US, Japan and Australian air exercise in the Mariana islands is underway with a reasonable RAAF contingent. |
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IFC4 CONFIG MQ-4C TRITON ENTERS SERVICE
USA: Finally some positive outcomes in the RAAF'S MQ-4C Triton drone saga with the US Navy resuming acceptance of final configuration airframes. |
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HMAS ARUNTA DEPLOYS
SYDNEY HARBOUR: The RAN's first warship of 2022 has departed for the Indo Pacific to continue regional presence operations. |
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HMAS ADELAIDE RECOVERY
TONGA: The ADF has launched an emergency recovery operation for HMAS Adelaide after onboard power failures. |
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HUNTER CLASS FFG DESIGN ISSUES
OSBORNE SA: A leaked official engineering report has revealed extremely troubling issues in the design and engineering of the Future Frigates. |
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ARMY'S NEW AIR DEFENCE MISSILES INBOUND
WOODSIDE SA: Army's introduction of the advanced eNASAMS surface to air missile system remains on track despite pandemic complications. |
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TONGA HADR UPDATE
TONGA: The distribution of aid and the deployment of the recovery team aboard HMAS Adelaide has been complicated by the pandemic. |
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OP TONGA ASSIST UPDATE
TONGA: Disaster relief operations in Tonga are gaining momentum with an major airlift underway and the arrival of HMAS Adelaide. |
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INDONESIA BUYS RAFALE FLEET - MAYBE?
INDONESIA: Indonesia has confirmed it has signed contracts for Rafale fighters but is waiting on finance approval. |
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EX RED FLAG 22-1
USA: The RAAF is a key participant in this year's exclusive US, British and Australian Ex Red Flag 2022-1 at Nellis AFB Las Vegas. |
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OP TONGA ASSIST
TONGA: Slideshow - ADF and NZDF Humanitarian Aid & Disaster Relief operations are in full swing in volcano and tsunami damaged Tonga. |
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NEW LITHGOW ARMS FACTORY
LITHGOW NSW: Construction of the new high tech Lithgow Arms factory able to produce the ADF's advanced future small arms is about to commence. |
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TONGA HADR OP UNDERWAY
TONGA: CH-47F Chinook helicopter have embarked on HMAS Adelaide as the first RAAF C-17A's touch down in Nuku'alofa with emergency aid and communications gear. |
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AUGMENTED C-130J's FIRST RECON OP
TONGA: The RAAF's Litening Pod augmented C-130J Hercules completed its first official overseas operational mission in support of the Tonga volcano HADR. |
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ANOTHER SCATHING GERMAN TIGER & NH90 REPORT
GERMANY: The German Bundeswehr has tabled another scathing report on its versions of the Tiger ARH and NH-90 (MRH-90) helicopters. |
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USAF BULK FUEL DEPOT WORK BEGINS
DARWIN: Work on the USAF's massive strategic bulk fuel storage facility at East Arm io Darwin's fringe has commenced. |
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ADF PREPOSITIONS SHIPS & AIRCRAFT FOR TONGA
AUSTRALIA: The ADF is prepositioning ships and aircraft to respond to any Tongan requests for assistance in the wake of the volcanic eruption. |
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RAAF RECON FLIGHT TO TONGA
TONGA: An RAAF P-8A Poseidon is conducting a reconnaissance mission to assess the volcano eruption and tsunami damage to the Kingdom of Tonga. |
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RAAF P-8A POSEIDONS DAMAGED
EDINBURGH SA: A significant proportion of the RAAF's advanced P-8A fleet was damaged in a severe storm last year. |
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RAAF C-130J HERCULES UPGRADE
RICHMOND NSW: The RAAF is undertaking a block upgrade of its C-130J Hercules fleet with the first aircraft upgrade already complete. |
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LCM8 REPLACEMENT PROJECT HALTED THEN RESUMED
CANBERRA: UPDATED The Department of Defence withdrew and then almost immediately reissued its program to replace the Australian Army's venerable war worn LCM8 Landing Craft. |
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US ARMY SELECTS XM157 NGSW - FIRE CONTROL
USA: The US Army has selected the XM157 NGSW-FC ahead of its selection of the M-4A1 carbine and M249 SAW replacement combat weapons with advanced 6.8mm small arms. |
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HE448 PROGRAMMABLE MULTIPURPOSE 84mm ROUND
SWEDEN: The next gen HE448 expanded lethality multi purpose programmable round for the 84mm M4 Multi Role Weapons System has been operationally certified. |
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C-27J SPARTAN REVISED FMR & FOC
AMBERLEY: The RAAF's fleet of C-27J Spartans are aiming at a mid year FMR and FOC after being rebaselined as lower tier Light Tactical Fixed Wing airlifters. |
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AIR 7000 UNDER 'FUNDAMENTAL REVIEW'
CANBERRA: The Department of Defence is conducting a 'fundamental review' of the already underway MQ-4C Triton Broad Area Maritime Surveillance acquisition due to US Navy repositioning. |
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AUSTRALIA JAPAN RECIPROCAL ACCESS SIGNED
CANBERRA: Australia and Japan have formalised the Reciprocal Access Agreement that allows both nations military access to each other's facilities. |
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HMAS BALLARAT AMCAP UPGRADE
HENDERSON WA: HMAS Ballarat has entered the Anzac Midlife Capability Assurance Program upgrade in Western Australia. |
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ARMY'S NEXT GEN BLACK HAWKS
USA: The Army's next generation 'latest version' Black Hawks are a far more sophisticated platform than the now retired S-70As that hauled our Diggers around Timor Leste back in the day. |
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HMNZS TE MANA STILL STUCK IN CANADA
CANADA: The RNZN's HMNZS Te Mana is still stuck in Canada due to pandemic and contractual disputes months after her upgrade engineering was completed. |
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GBU-53/B SDB2 OPERATIONAL
USA: The USAF has employed the cutting edge GBU-53/B accellerating the RAAF's introduction of the advanced Precision Guided Munition. |
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OP LELIA JTF-637.4 STRENGTH REDUCTION
SOLOMON ISLANDS: A large percentage of the Australian Defence Force personnel in the Solomon Islands have been returned to Australia after completing their mission. |
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AIRBUS DENIES MRH-90 REPLACEMENT
FRANCE: Senior French Airbus executives are directly contradicting the Australian Defence Minister, claiming that no decision to replace the disastrous MRH-90 with the UH-60M Black Hawk has been made. |
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CHINESE SECURITY FORCES GOING TO SOLOMONS
SOLOMON ISLANDS: The Chinese influenced Sogavare Government has approved a deployment of Chinese paramilitaries and crowd control equipment in the wake of the Australian led restoration of law and order in Honiara. |
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FIRST ECCPB SEA TRIALS OFF WA
HENDERSON WA: The first of the RAN's interim Evolved Cape class Patrol Boats is currently undergoing contractor sea trials off Perth. |
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MRH-90 FMR FOC DELAYS
CANBERRA: The Australian Army and RAN's doomed MRH-90 helicopters Final Material Release and Final Operational Capability are delayed again. |
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LARGE ARMY AGM-114R2 HELLFIRE II BUY
USA: The US Government has approved a very large quantity of the latest Hellfire II laser guided missiles for the Australian Army's helicopters. |
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ARMY TOOLS UP NEW HEAVY COMBAT BRIGADE
CANBERRA: Contracts for new Huntsman Self Propelled Howitzers and approvals for new M1A2C Abrams, M1150 Armoured Breacher Vehicles, M1074 Joint Assault Bridges and additional M88A2 Hercules are paving the way for the new South Australian based heavy combat brigade. |
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HMAS SIRIUS DECOMMISSIONING
ROCKINGHAM WA: The RAN's massive underway oiler HMAS Sirius will be withdrawn from service tomorrow after 15 years supporting the fleet. |
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ARAFURA OPV OFFICIALLY LAUNCHED
OSBORNE SA: The RAN has officially launched Nuship Arafura, the first of class OPVs at a ceremony at Osborne, South Australia. |
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ARAFURA OPV GUN CANCELLED
OSBORNE SA: The RAN has cancelled the original prime gun system for the Arafura class OPVs and is seeking a more capable alternative. |
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HOBART DESTROYER AEGIS SYSTEM UPGRADE
CANBERRA: Lockheed Martin Australia has been appointed primary agent for the upgrade of the Hobart DDGs to Aegis Baseline 9 capability. |
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RNZN JOINS RAN OFF HONIARA
SOLOMON ISLANDS: The Royal New Zealand Navy is operating beside the Royal Australian Navy in Iron Bottom Sound off Honiara. |
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HONIARA EARLY OPS
SOLOMON ISLANDS: Slideshow. Former Aussie Digger now awarded photojournalist Gary Ramage's outstanding imagery from the early intervention in the Solomons. Including multiple new Australian Army and AFP Tactical Response Team weapons and weapon accessories operational debuts. |
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SELF PROPELLED HOWITZER CONTRACT SIGNED
MELBOURNE: The Australian Army has finalised the contract for its next generation Hanwha tracked artillery guns and armoured vehicles. |
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CLASSIC BLACK HAWKS RETIRED
HOLSWORTHY: The Australian Army has quietly retired its inservice S-70A Black Hawks on the same day the new Black Hawk acquisition was announced. |
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NEW ZEALAND SOLOMONS OPS
SOLOMON ISLANDS: Slideshow. The New Zealand Defence Force and New Zealand Police are supporting stabilisation operations in the Solomon Islands. |
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NEW BLACK HAWKS FOR ARMY
CANBERRA: The Australian Army will acquire a large fleet of new UH-60 Black Hawks to replace the problematic MRH90 TTH. |
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SUPPLY CLASS AOR TROPICAL FOCFT
CORAL SEA: Navy has conducted tropical First of Class Flight Trials on its Supply class Auxiliary Oiler Replenishment off North Queensland. |
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TOP END LIGHTNING IN OPS
TINDAL NT: The Department of Defence has revealed a few details of the F-35A Lightning IIs assumption of the key northern air defence mission. |
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LYNX & REDBACK IFV AMPHIB COMPATIBILITY TRIALS
SYDNEY HARBOUR: Video: The Land 400 Phase 3 trials confirmed both the Redback and Lynx AFVs were compatible with the RAN's amphibious ships and landing craft. |
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AH-64Ev6 APACHE ACQUISITION TIMELINE
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Army has revealed the timeline for its transition from the old Tiger ARH to the advanced AH-64Ev6 Apache Guardian gunship helo. |
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AUSSIE 155mm M795 PRODUCTION
BENALLA VIC: Local production of the 155mm M795 high explosive fragmentation artillery shell will commence early next year. |
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HMAS SIRIUS COMPLETES FINAL MISSION
FLEET BASE WEST WA: The RAN's underway oiler HMAS Sirius has returned to base for the last time after completing her final mission. |
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AUSSIE MADE BLU-111 BOMB UNIT ENTERS SERVICE
WILLIAMTOWN NSW: The RAAF has introduced the new Aussie made 217kg BLU-111 (Aus) B/B G.P. Bomb Unit into service on its combat aircraft. |
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TOP END LIGHTNING IIs
TINDAL NT: 75 Squadron is re equipping with the cutting edge F-35A Lightning II after the retirement of the final F/A-18HUG 'classic' Hornets. |
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SOLOMONS STABILISATION OPERATIONS
SOLOMON ISLANDS: The Australian Defence Force's Joint Task Group 637.4 expands its support for the Australian Federal Police led stablisation operations as Papua New Guinea, Fiji and New Zealand deploy forces. |
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ARMY AVIATION COMMAND ACTIVATED
AUSTRALIA: Army Aviation Command has assumed administrative and capability delivery responsibility for all of Army's helicopters and Tactical UAVs. |
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US WARSHIP VISITS NZ CAPITAL
NEW ZEALAND: The first US Navy warship to visit NZ's capital Wellington in 38 years has received a warm joint NZDF welcome. |
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HMAS PERTH RETURNS TO RAN
FLEET BASE WEST WA: HMAS Perth has returned to RAN control after an extraordinary five year dry docking due to crewing issues and the AMCAP upgrade. |
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RAAF RETIRES THE CLASSIC HORNET
WILLIAMTOWN: The RAAF has officially retired its long serving and combat proven F/A-18 'classic' Hornet fleet with a small ceremony at RAAF Williamtown. |
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AUSTRALIAN AFP AND ADF BUSY IN HONIARA
SOLOMON ISLANDS: The deployment of a compact Australian Federal Police and Australian Defence Force joint task group has suppressed anti government riots in the Solomon Island's capital. |
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RAAF SHOPPING FOR MORE NEW HERCS
UNITED KINGDOM: Reports that the RAAF is negotiating for a much larger new build Hercules fleet have emerged from well placed sources. |
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AFP SPECIALIST RESPONSE GROUP IN HONIARA
SOLOMON ISLANDS: The AFP's armed crisis response group mission element was airlifted into Honiara last night in response to broadscale rioting. |
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ADF DEPLOYMENT TO THE SOLOMON ISLANDS
CANBERRA: Australia is deploying a security assistance force to the Solomon Islands after communal unrest has seen widespread arson and rioting in Honiara. Pic Twitter |
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SASR TRAINING IN INDONESIA
JAVA: Australian SASR and SOER specialists have trained with Indonesian KOPASSUS personnel in Indonesia's Banten region in Java. |
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JAPAN LED ANNUALEX 21
PHILIPPINE SEA: Photostory - The RAN has teamed up with the US Navy, Royal Canadian Navy and German Deutsches Marine for the Japanese led Annual Exercise 2021. |
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COMMANDO PARACHUTE EX
AVALON VIC: Photostory 2 Commando Company parachute training into the fields around Avalon airport at Geelong in Victoria during Ex Star Leopard. |
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FINAL AUTONOMOUS OCCV DELIVERED
AUSTRALIA: The last of autonomous 20 M-113AS4 Optionally Crewed Combat Vehicles has been delivered to the Australian Army for its robotics trials. |
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EXERCISE GLOBAL DEXTERITY 2021
WESTERN PACIFIC: The RAAF contributed two C-17As which flew a 9000km round mission with their USAF counterparts during Ex Global Dexterity. |
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MORE RAAF F-35As DELIVERED
WILLIAMTOWN NSW: New RAAF F-35A Lightning II Joint Strike Fighters have flown in from the USA with more expected very soon. Pic Jeff De Ath |
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INDONESIA ORDERS TWO A400M ATLAS AIRLIFTERS
INDONESIA: Indonesia has ordered a small fleet of the huge Airbus A400M Atlas airlifter to augment its air transport capacity. |
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AUSTRALIAN EXPEDITIONARY FAST TRANSPORTS
AUSTRALIA: No foreign design Pacific Support Ship would be half as impressive to our Pacific Island neighbours as an all Aussie sovereign Expeditionary Fast Transport. |
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AUSTRALIA JAPAN ASSET PROTECTION MISSION
JAPAN: A Japanese warship has 'protected' an Australian warship during the first formal activation of the Australia - Japan Asset Protection Mission. |
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ARMY ACQUIRES JAEGER-C HUNTER KILLER BOT
BRISBANE: The Australian Army is acquiring a fleet of Aussie made GaardTech Jaeger-C AI driven Autonomous Ground Combat Robots to trial long range/long endurance hunter killer missions. |
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NEXT GEN SOVEREIGN 6.8mm RIFLE
LITHGOW: The Australian Army and Thales Lithgow Arms are developing an all Aussie next generation advanced 6.8mm combat rifle that fires an unconventional high lethality round. |
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NZ COUNTER TERRORISM ASSAULT TRAINING
NEW ZEALAND: New Zealand's elite Special Tactics Group has been busy conducting counter terrorism training with RNZAF NH-90 helicopters. |
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FIRST LUFTWAFFE DEPLOYMENT TO AUSTRALIA
GERMANY: The German military has confirmed it will deploy a significant air element to Australia next year for Exercise Pitch Black 22. |
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AOR STALWART COMMISSIONING
ROCKINGHAM WA: The RAN's second Supply class Auxiliary Oiler Replenishment Stalwart will be officially commissioned into service on November 13. |
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EOS INTEGRATES LASER INTO T2000 TURRET
CANBERRA: Aussie evolved weapons maker EOS Defence Systems has integrated a High Energy Laser Counter UAS/Counter Loitering Munition self defence system to its advanced T2000 turret. |
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RAAF F-35A COUNTERMEASURES DEPLOYMENT
WILLIAMTOWN: Aviation photographer Glen Greathead has captured an F-35A IRCM flare deployment, possibly the first time that an Aussie Lightning has been snapped using its advanced survivability systems. |
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ARMY TRANSITION TO M252A1 MORTAR IMMINENT
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Army's pandemic delayed migration from its legacy F2 to the new M252A1 81mm Mortar System is finally getting serious. |
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USAF B-1B ACTIVITY OVER TOP END
DARWIN: USAF B-1B Lancers have been active over the Northern Territory again with support from RAAF KC-30A tankers. Pictorial. |
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RNZAF DEPLOYS P-3K2 FOR DPRK SURVEILLANCE
JAPAN: Another Kiwi P-3K2 has deployed to Japan to fly surveillance missions targeting North Korean sanctions evasion operations. |
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FRENCH LED TIGER MARK 3 UPGRADE FALTERS
FRANCE: The Australian Army's wisdom in deciding to retire its problematic Tiger helos in favour of new Apaches has been validated with Germany delaying joining up while shopping around for US gunships. |
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75 SQN TO RETAIN NT AIR DEFENCE ROLE IN 2022
TINDAL NT: 75 Squadron will conduct its transition to the F-35A Lightning in place at RAAF Tindal and maintain the primary northern air defence mission according to a RAAF response to A&NZD questions. |
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EXERCISE DUGONG 2021
ROCKINGHAM WA: Aussie and US Navy Mine Countermeasures specialists have completed Exercise Dugong 2021 in waters off Fleet Base West. |
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LOYAL WINGMAN FLIGHT TESTING PROGRAM
WOOMERA: Video: The RAAF and Boeing have two BATS Loyal Wingman flying trials missions out of RAAF Woomera in the central desert as the program gains speed. |
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LIGHT SPEC OPS HELO DECISION DUE
CANBERRA: A final decision on which helicopter will fulfill SOCAust's Light Special Operations Aviation Capability requirement should be announced soon if the program schedule is to be maintained. |
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HMAS BRISBANE'S LOST MH-60R REPLACED
JAPAN: The RAN has airlifted a replacement MH-60R Romeo for HMAS Brisbane into Japan to allow the advanced destroyer to complete her mission. |
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ASPI CALLS FOR URGENT WARSHIP BUILDS
CANBERRA: The Australian Strategic Policy Institute is calling for urgent redirection of Defence efforts to build more warships rapidly. |
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BOEING ATS LOYAL WINGMAN PRODUCTION
FISHERMANS BEND VIC: Boeing Australia is moving rapidly through the production of the RAAF Loyal Wingman fleet at its advanced facility in Melbourne. |
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RAN NUCLEAR SUB PREFERENCES
CANBERRA: The Department of Defence revealed a few of its preferences for the future nuclear submarine for the RAN in recent Senate hearings. |
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BRIT NUKE SUB DOCKS IN WA
FLEET BASE WEST WA: An unidentified British Royal Navy Astute class nuclear hunter killer submarine is having a brief holiday in Western Australia. |
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SINGAPORE EX WALLABY 2021
SHOALWATER BAY QLD: The Singapore Armed Forces have successfully completed Ex Wallaby 2021, resuming major Australian based training after the pandemic closures. |
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WARRAMUNGA ON NORTH KOREA MONITORING OPS
EAST/YELLOW SEA: HMAS Warramunga has joined UN sanctions monitoring of North Korea violations under Operation Argos. |
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HX40M DRIVERLESS LOGISTICS TECH
AUSTRALIA: Video: Defence has developed an integrated system that allows one driver to control multiple HX logistics vehicles on missions |
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PACIFIC SUPPORT VESSEL EXPEDITED
CANBERRA: The Government has expedited its acquisition of a Pacific Support Vessel, hinting that it could enter service next year. |
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THE BATTLE FOR SHAGGY RIDGE
REVIEW: Phillip Bradley's excellent history of the Australian 7th Division's clearance of the Ramu Valley and extermination of the Japanese in the Finisterre Mountains of New Guinea in 43/44. |
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PrSM MISSILE FLIGHT TESTS
USA: The US Government is exploring the relocation of some next generation PrSM Precision Strike Missile flight tests to Australia to maintain secrecy of the cooperative US Army/Australian Army program. |
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ARMY'S LEASED AW139 HELOS BUSY
TOWNSVILLE: Army's leased AW139 helicopters are being kept busy flying missions that should have been filled by the problematic MRH-90 Tactical Transport Helicopter. |
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AUSINDO COOPERATIVE PATROL 2021
TIMOR/ARAFURA SEA: The Royal Australian Navy and the Indonesian TNI-Angkatan Laut have completed their 11th combined security patrol of the two nations' shared maritime border. |
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TIGER ARH IN CALIFORNIA
CALIFORNIA: Video: Australian Army 1Avn Tiger ARH helicopters in live fire exercise with USMC Vipers and Ospreys in California for Ex Griffin Eagle. |
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BOXER BLOCK 2 PRODUCTION UNDERWAY
BRISBANE: Manufacture of the final configuration Australian Army Boxer Block 2 Combat Reconnaissance Vehicle has commenced at Rheinmetall's MILVEHCOE in Qld. |
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F-35A MUNITION SEPARATION SIMULATION EXPERIMENTS
AUSTRALIA: Australia's Defence Science and Technology Group is playing a key role in the scientific support of the F-35A weapons certification efforts. |
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NEW ERA RNZN TASK GROUP
AT SEA: The Royal New Zealand Navy's new look naval task group has been active in the South China Sea with upgraded Anzac frigates and the new underway oiler. |
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MARINE ROTATIONAL FORCE - DARWIN 2021 COMPLETE
DARWIN NT: The US Marines of Marine Rotational Force - Darwin 2021 are heading home after completing their six month deployment to Australia. |
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LAND 400 PHASE 3 AFV TRIALS COMPLETE
PUCKAPUNYAL VIC: The Capability Acquisition and Sustainment Group has completed its competitive trials of the Hanwha AS21 Redback and Rheinmetall KF41 Lynx Armoured Fighting Vehicles. |
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FIRST EVOLVED CAPE CLASS PBF
HENDERSON WA: The first of six new Evolved Cape class Patrol Boats for the Royal Australian Navy was quietly launched by builder Austal last month. |
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AUSTRALIAN MADE LYNX COMBAT SUPPORT VEHICLE
BRISBANE: Rheinmetall has unveiled its new Lynx Combat Support Vehicle, the basis of at least four of the ten Land 400/3 AFV variants required if the company wins the contract. |
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CYBORG DYNAMICS ENGINEERING COMBAT-UGS
BRISBANE: Defence is funding the continued development of a cutting edge tracked Combat-UGS that uses Artificial Intelligence and weapons from mini guns through to Javelin missiles to fight semi autonomously beside infantry platoons. |
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US ARMY MOBILE PROTECTED FIREPOWER
USA: The US Army is in the final stage of trials for its next generation light tank, the first new tank to enter service since the prototype M1 Abrams in the late 1970s. |
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CONTAMINATED CASUALTY HANDLING SYSTEM
TOWNSVILLE: The Australian Army's new Chemical Biological Radiological & Nuclear protective systems include advanced casualty evacuation and decontamination systems. |
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RAN MH-60R ROMEO LOST
PHILIPPINE SEA: An RAN MH-60R Romeo helicopter has been lost after making a forced landing at sea during routine night operations. |
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HUNTER FFG PROTOTYPING PROGRESS
OSBORNE SA: Sub components of the first prototype Hunter class frigate modules to validate the shipbuilding skills at the Osborne Naval Shipyard have been completed. |
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HMAS SIRIUS APPROACHES RETIREMENT
SINGAPORE: The RAN will lose an exceptional bulk fuel resupply capacity when it retires the underway oiler HMAS Sirius in December, a capacity that would be critical if push comes to shove with the CCP. |
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TOOLED UP 10LHR HAWKEI PMV-Ls
KARRAKATTA WA: The 10th Light Horse Regiment re raising parade revealed some very modern new weapons systems on the new Hawkeis entering service with the next gen Army Reserve/regular formation. |
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USMC & 16RAA SURFACE TO AIR MISSILE SHOOT
BRADSHAW NT: Marine MRF-D21 fired the FIM-92 Stinger Surface to Air Missile for the first time in Australia during a SAM shoot with 16RAA. |
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NEXT GEN NULKA DECOY PAYLOAD ACQUISITION
USA: An upgraded payload for the Australian made Mk 234 Nulka Active Missile Decoy is entering production for the US Navy and Royal Australian Navy. |
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MORE MH-60R ROMEOS FOR RAN
USA: The US State Department has approved a major Australian acquistion of more advanced MH-60R Romeo naval combat helicopters for the RAN's Fleet Air Arm. |
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RAN ROLLING OUT ITS NEW MMPU UNIFORM
DARWIN NT: The RAN has commenced issuing its new Maritime Multicam Pattern Uniform to sailors based at Cairns FNQ and Coonawarra NT. |
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BOXER CRV INTRO INTO SERVICE
TOWNSVILLE: Video: Excellent Army video on the progress in the Boxer CRV as it replaces the ASLAV in Australian Army service . |
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BOXER LIVE FIRE - 30mm + MSO SMOKE
TOWNSVILLE: The Australian Army's new Boxer Combat Reconnaissance Vehicles were deployed north to Townsville for Diamond Dagger and a live shoot with obscurants for added effect. |
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RNZN EMBEDS IN MASSIVE CARRIER CONCENTRATION
PHILIPPINE SEA: The RNZN's HMNZS Te Kaha and HMNZS Aotearoa participated in the massive four carrier strike group concentration in the Philippine Sea. |
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LAND 2110 CBRN PERSONAL PROTECTIVE ENSEMBLE IN SERVICE
TOWNSVILLE: The new AMCU patterned Land 2110 CBRN Personal Protective Ensemble is rolling out across Army's combat manoeuvre brigades. |
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AUSTRALIAN ARMY STEALTH RECONNAISSANCE E-BIKE
TOWNSVILLE: The Australian Army's 7th Brigade is trialling very quiet, dust plume suppressed battery powered E-Bikes to equip its Recon Scouts. |
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USAF ASKS FOR WEDGETAIL AFTER FLYING WITH RAAF
USA: The US Air Force is lobbying hard for the acquisition of the Boeing E-7A Wedgetail to replace its E-3G Sentry AWACs after borrowing a RAAF aircraft for three weeks and verifying its outstanding capability. |
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SINGAPORE EX WALLABY UNDERWAY
SHOALWATER BAY: Singapore has resumed its Exercise Wallaby training manoeuvres in Queensland with a small contingent after cancelling last year's activities due to the pandemic. |
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ADDITIONAL EA-18G GROWLER FOR RAAF
USA: The US State Department has approved an additional EA-18G Growler Airborne Electronic Attack aircraft to replace the one lost in 2018. |
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MRF-D 21 AIR COMBAT ELEMENT SHIPS OUT
DARWIN: Pictorial - Marine Rotational Force - Darwin shipped out its tiltrotors and gunship helicopters after completing the 2021 deployment. |
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AUSTRALIA IS SHOPPING FOR ADVANCED SAMS
AUSTRALIA: Australia is seeking to buy advanced Medium Range Ground Based Air Defence missiles capable of destroying enemy aircraft, cruise missiles and ballistic missiles. |
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GERMAN WARSHIP DOCKS IN WA
FREMANTLE: A German Navy frigate has docked in Western Australia during the first Deutsche Marine extended Indian Ocean operation since WW2. |
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FIRST RNZAF P-3K2 ORION MPA RETIRED
NEW ZEALAND: The RNZAF has retired the first of its P-3K2 Orion MPAs as it prepares to introduce its new P-8A Poseidons. |
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LITHGOW BUILD FOR 30x173mm MK30-2/ABM
LITHGOW NSW: The turreted Boxer 'Guncar' 30mm Mauser/Rheinmetall cannon will be built at Thales Australia Lithgow from Aussie made parts. |
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2ND JAPANESE NAVAL RESUPPLY IN DARWIN
DARWIN: Another Japanese warship has resupplied in Darwin under the Japan Australia Reciprocal Access Agreement. |
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EXPANDING USAF PRESENCE IN AUSTRALIA
USA: The USAF's Pacific Air Force's commander has revealed plans for a major expansion of his aircraft into and out of Australian bases under the AUKUS partnership. |
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40 MORE DEATH ADDER RTVs
PORT MACQUARIE: The ADF has ordered a second tranche of Aussie made Bale Defence Death Adder RTVs for specialist combat elements. |
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LOYAL WINGMAN FACTORY SITE ANNOUNCED
TOOWOOMBA: Boeing Australia has announced it will build the Loyal Wingman autonomous UCAV in Toowoomba when the RAAF acquisition commences in 2025/26. |
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NEW F-35A LIGHTNING IIs ARRIVE
WILLIAMTOWN NSW: New F-35As flew into Australia last week as the RAAF closes in on the completion of the transition from the F/A-18HUG 'classic' Hornet. |
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RAPID DRAGON AIRLIFTER STRIKE CAPABILITY
USA: Trials of the Rapid Dragon containerised missile system that turns airlifters into long range strikers holds great promise for the RAAF. |
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ARMY AVIATION COMMAND
CANBERRA: Army has separated out its helicopters and drones into a new dedicated Command separate from the manoeuvre elements of Forces Command. |
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JAPANESE WARSHIPS DEPLOY INTO NT
DARWIN: A Japanese naval task element has arrived in Darwin as part of new reciprocal access arrangements between the ADF and JSDF. Pic Tauri Minogue |
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INTERIM SSN LEASE UNDER INVESTIGATION
CANBERRA: Australia is seeking an 'interim' leased nuclear fast attack submarine capability for the RAN in the immediate future. |
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US & UK NUCLEAR FAST ATTACK SUB OPTIONS
US & UK: The latest generation of US Navy and UK Royal Navy fast attack submarines are exponentially more capable than the RAN's planned diesel powered SSG. |
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AGM-158B JASSM-EXTENDED RANGE FOR RAAF
CANBERRA: The RAAF is acquiring long range stealthy cruise missiles that can penetrate advanced air defence systems and smash key enemy targets. |
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RGM-109E TOMAHAWK FOR HOBART DDGs
CANBERRA: Australia will arm its Hobart class destroyers with the latest variant Tomahawk Block V long range surface strike cruise missile. |
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NUCLEAR SUBMARINES FOR AUSTRALIA
WASHINGTON DC: Australia will be given access to US nuclear submarine technology under a new strategic aggreement. |
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10TH LIGHT HORSE HAWKEI PMV-Ls
KARRAKATTA WA: The Perth based 10th Light Horse has its first new Hawkei PMV-Ls for its new ISR Squadron ahead of its reestablishment as a full light cavalry regiment. |
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AUSSIE MADE SENTINEL LMC FOR RNZN
NEW ZEALAND: The Royal New Zealand Navy is acquiring Tasmanian built Littoral Manoeuvre Craft for its Mine Countermeasures and Naval Special Warfare missions. |
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F-35 SUSTAINMENT COSTS FALL DRAMATICALLY
USA: Lockheed Martin has signed new sustainment contracts with the F-35 Joint Project Office which will see already decreasing support costs fall dramatically in the next year. |
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AUSTRALIA EXPANDS SOUTH KOREA MILITARY LINKS
SOUTH KOREA: Australia and South Korea are negotiating expanded military to military links and possible infantry exercises. |
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RNZN DEPLOYS TO SOUTHEAST ASIA
PACIFIC OCEAN: New Zealand has deployed a frigate and a tanker to Southeast Asia in that nation's sovereign regional presence activity. |
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ADF TO EXPAND LINKS WITH INDONESIA
INDONESIA: Australia and Indonesia are negotiating a new agreement that will see a major expansion of TNI training in Australia and attendance at Australian military colleges. |
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RAN ACCEPTS AOR STALWART
ROCKINGHAM WA: The Royal Australian Navy has officially accepted its new Supply class Auxiliary Oiler Replenishment ship Stalwart. |
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PATROL BOAT CONCENTRATION PERIOD
DARWIN HARBOUR: Pictorial - the RAN's Darwin based Armidale patrol boats have conducted combined exercises to maintain skills across the fleet. |
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BILATERAL TRAINING WITH INDIAN NAVY
ARAFURA SEA: Pictorial - the Indian and Royal Australian Navies are conducting a bilateral maritime warfare training exercise in waters off Darwin. |
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AUSSIE BASED F-35A LIGHTNING FLEET GROWS
WILLIAMTOWN NSW: A new F-35A flew into Williamtown on Saturday with more to follow as the RAAF rolls towards two operational combat squadrons of Lightning IIs. Pic Jeff De Ath/Williamtown Plane Spotters |
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EXERCISE KOOLENDONG 2021
BRADSHAW NT: Pictorial - more great pix from the USMC's Marine Rotational Force - Darwin and Australian Army 1st Brigade's EABO tactical ex in the Top End. |
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EXERCISE RED FLAG ALASKA 21-3
FAIRBANKS ALASKA: Pictorial - the RAAF expeditionary air element for Red Flag Alaska was the first overseas training trip for our Williamtown based F-35As. |
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EXERCISE MALABAR 2021
PHILIPPINE SEA: Pictorial - the combined US Navy, Indian Navy, Japanese Maritime Self Defence Force and Royal Australian Navy sea wargames off Guam. |
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EXERCISE KOOLENDONG 2021
TOP END NT: Pictorial - Marine Rotational Force - Darwin has integrated with 1 Brigade to conduct Exercise Koolendong 2021 at Bradshaw FTA in the Top End. |
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NZSAS EVACUATION OPS
KABUL: 1st New Zealand Special Air Service Regiment operators played a critical role in the short Kiwi airlift of its citizens and approved Afghans out of Kabul. |
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TWO DIGGERS KILLED IN TRUCK INCIDENT
TOWNSVILLE: Two 7th Brigade personnel have been killed in a truck accident during Ex Diamond Dagger 21. |
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US DESERTS KABUL
AFGHANISTAN: The final US military airlifter has flown away and the Taliban are in complete control of HKIA. |
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HMAS PALUMA & MERMAID FINAL MISSION COMPLETE
CAIRNS: The RAN's two oldest commissioned vessels have completed their final operational tasking and returned to base to decommission. |
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AFGHANISTAN EVACUATION ENDS
AFGHANISTAN: The Australian Defence Force's emergency Noncombatant Evacuation Operation into Kabul has ended with the last Diggers flown out to AMAB. |
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1RAR, SPEC OPS, ADGs IN KABUL
AFGHANISTAN: Pictorial The Australian armed security elements in Kabul including 1RAR, Airfield Defence Guards, Special Operations Command. Photostory from August 24. |
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EXERCISE MALABAR 2021
GUAM: The RAN's HMAS Warramunga is operating beside US Navy, Indian Navy and Japanese warships in the Philippine Sea for Ex Malabar 2021. |
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RIM-174 & SM2 IIIC APPROVAL
USA: The US Government has approved Australian production of RIM-174 SM6 and SM2 Block IIIC Standard naval missiles for the Royal Australian Navy and export. |
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KABUL AIRLIFT EXPANDS
AFGHANISTAN: The Australian airlift out of Kabul has gained momentum with a doubling of flights and evacuations, and the New Zealanders have joined the effort. |
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EX RED FLAG ALASKA 21-3
ALASKA USA: An RAAF multi type offensive air operations element is participating in the bilateral Red Flag Alaska 21-3 with high end USAF Pacific units. |
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BALLARAT BACK AT FLEET BASE WEST
ROCKINGHAM WA: HMAS Ballarat has returned to her home port Fleet Base West in WA after a very busy four month deployment of operations and exercises. |
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RAAF C-17A KABUL EVACUATION
AL MINHAD: Photostory - RAAF C-17A Globemasters have conducted their first evacuation airlift flights out of Kabul's HKIA airport as the Taliban expand their control. |
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RNZN ANZAC COMMUNICATIONS UPGRADE
NEW ZEALAND: The Royal New Zealand Navy will integrate a new digital communications suite into its upgraded Anzac class guided missile frigates. |
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AGONY OF UNNECESSARY DEFEAT
EDITORIAL: Trying to live with the awful reality of the Coalition's unnecessary and deliberate defeat in Afghanistan. Editorial by John Hunter Farrell |
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RAAF EVAC FLEET AT AMAB
AL MINHAD: Two RAAF C-17A Globemasters have joined the RAAF C-130J and KC-30A at Al Minhad Air Base near Dubai to support the airlift of Australians and Afghans with Australian links out of Taliban controlled Kabul. |
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USMC TESTS NMESIS MISSILE SYSTEM
HAWAII: The USMC has successfully demonstrated its high tech robotic Anti Ship Missile System by destroying a decommissioned frigate at sea during EABO exercise trials last week. |
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FIRST RAAF EVAC OUT OF KABUL
AFGHANISTAN: The RAAF has successfully completed the first evacution of Australians and Afghan employees out of Kabul today. |
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THE CRITICAL INTERVENTION THAT SWUNG BATTLE OF KABUL
OPINION: The ugly tribal and political manoeuvring behind the catastrophic collapse of Afghanistan by David Kilcullen. |
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P-8A NORTH KOREA SANCTIONS SURVEILLANCE
JAPAN: The RAAF has deployed another P-8A Poseidon to Japan to support surveillance operations on North Korean regime sanctions evasions. |
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SPECIAL OPERATIONS TASK GROUP 632 IN KABUL
AFGHANISTAN: Reports of an Australian SOTG 632 contingent in Kabul to facilitate the evacuation of Australian nationals is circulating in the international media. |
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ADF DEPLOYS TO AL MINHAD TO SUPPORT KABUL EVAC
AMBERLEY: The first contingent of ADF personnel has departed Amberley for the United Arab Emirates to support the emergency evacuation from Kabul after the catastrophic collapse of Afghanistan. |
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HOBART DDGs CERTIFIED FOC
AUSTRALIA: The Royal Australian Navy has formally declared Final Operating Capability for its advanced fleet of Hobart class destroyers. |
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NZ BUSHMASTER PRODUCTION UNDERWAY
BENDIGO: The first of the New Zealand Army's new Bushmaster 5.5 combat vehicles are rolling down the assembly line at Thales Australia in Victoria. |
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HMAS SUPPLY COMPLETES FIRST REFUELLING
PACIFIC OCEAN: The RAN's new Auxiliary Oiler Replenishment (AOR) HMAS Supply has successfully refuelled her first warship at sea and is progressing towards operational tasking. |
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AUSTRALIA JOINS PrSM MISSILE PROJECT
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Army is a paid up partner in the US Army's advanced long range Precision Strike Missile Increment 1 program with a view to kick start local production and entry into service. |
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BOXER AMMO, GUN, TURRET ISSUES CONFIRMED
AUSTRALIA: Rheinmetall has confirmed A&NZD's reports that the primary cannon is limited to one top end expensive round and has very serious turret weapons and systems integration issues that will be resolved at Australian expense. |
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CJBP FLEET FIRES & X-DECKING
CORAL SEA: The integrated Australian, US and Japanese warships in the Coral Sea have completed their Combined Joint Battle Problem manoeuvres with live fires and aviation operations. |
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MARSOC M45A1 MEUSOC CQBP PISTOL
CORAL SEA: Talisman Sabre saw some cutting edge weapons systems in action, but in our (biased) view the coolest of them all was the USMC's Spec Ops super old school M45A1 CQBP evolution of the epic but Colt 1911 'forty five'. |
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COMBINED JOINT BATTLE PROBLEM
CORAL SEA: Australian, US and Japanese warships and amphibious ground combat elements are operating together within the Combined Joint Battle Problem manoeuvres at sea off Queensland. |
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DEFENDTEX RPG-40G LASER GUIDED PGM
AUSTRALIA: Victorian advanced military systems developer DefendTex has upgraded its revolutionary 40mm RPG40 rocket propelled grenade with laser guidance and integrated it on its Drone155 for very low cost precision aerial attack missions. |
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USAF SPECIAL OPERATIONS DAGRE TEAM VIDEO
TALISMAN SABRE: Video. USAF DAGRE team special forces operations in northern Australia during Exercise Talisman Sabre 2021. |
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CDF's AFGHAN INQUIRY SMOKESCREEN
EDITORIAL: The ADF's official response to the IGADF's public Afghan warcrimes allegations is an artful exercise in linguistic avoidance all about the sins of the little people and no mention of senior commander responsibilities. By John Hunter Farrell |
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LYNX & REDBACK LIVE FIRE VIDEO
PUCKAPUNYAL: Video. CASG has released the first video of Redback & Lynx AFVs conducting live fire with mechanised infantry dismounts during the Land 400/3 trials. |
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TS21 FINAL PHOTOS
NORTHERN AUSTRALIA: Pictorial: Exercise Talisman Sabre 2021 has wound up, but we couldn't help ourselves with one final dig into their photofile. |
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RAAF AP-3C(EW)s TARGETED CHINESE SPY SHIPS
CORAL SEA: The RAAF was busy flying active missions gleaning electronic intelligence from the Chinese intelligence ships trying to spy on Talisman Sabre 2021. Pic Sid Mitchell |
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MRH-90 TTH FLIGHTS MYSTERY
TOWNSVILLE: Confirmation of at least two VIP transport missions and multiple undisclosed flights from bases on online flight trackers indicate that the MRH-90 grounding may at least be partially lifted. |
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TS21 AMPHIBIOUS ASSAULT
INGHAM NTH QLD: Pictorial: Exercise Talisman Sabre 2021 culminated with a combined USMC, Japanese, Brit Royal Marine Commando and Australian over the beach assault at Ingham. |
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HUNTER FUTURE FRIGATE BUILD DELAY
CANBERRA: The Minister of Defence has confirmed that the RAN's Future Frigate program is already off the rails and faces a significant delay in entering service. |
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TS21 FAST AIR
TALISMAN SABRE: Pictorial: The Royal Australian Air Force, US Air Force, US Marine Corps and US Navy all contributed jets to Exercise Talisman Sabre 2021. |
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TS21 509PIR AIR MOBILE INSERTION
TOWNSVILLE FTA: Pictorial: Aussie CH-47F Chinooks redeploy US Army 509th Parachute Infantry Regiment airborne elements into Townsville Training Area for ground manoeuvre exercises with Australian elements during TS21. |
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USAF AFSOC DAGRE TEAMS
TINDAL: Pictorial: The USAF's 353rd Special Operations Support Squadron's Deployed Aircraft Ground Response Element (DAGRE) delivers ground combat capability to MC-130J Commando II operations during TS21. |
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75 SQN 'MAGPIE' HORNET
TINDAL NT: The RAAF's 75 Squadron has repainted one of its F/A-18 classic Hornets in glossy magpie black and white to commemorate its final six months flying the battle proven fighters. |
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509th JUMP INTO TS21
CHARTERS TOWERS: Pictorial: The US Army's elite 3rd Battalion, 509th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 4th Infantry Brigade Combat Team (Airborne) parachuted from RAAF C-17A Globemasters directly into Talisman Sabre. |
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TS21 COMMANDO NIGHTSTALKER FAST ROPE
TINDAL NT: Video: Australian Commandos and US Green Berets fast rope from 160 SOAR Nightstalker MH-60Ms during Talisman Sabre. |
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TS21 REPLENISHMENT AT SEA
CORAL SEA: Pictorial: The US Navy's USS America refuels the Australian Anzac class frigate HMAS Ballarat in the Coral Sea to reconfirm the ability of the US Navy to support the RAN anywhere on the high seas. |
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TS21 BG EAGLE COMBINED ARMS ASSAULT
TOWNSVILLE: Video: An outstanding ADF clip of 3 Brigade's Battle Group Eagle conducting a combined arms assault with armour at Townsville Training Area during TS21. |
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RAAF HAWK PAVEWAY II/TIGER TEAMING
DELAMERE: The RAAF has validated the deployment of the GBU-12 Paveway II LGB from the Hawk 127 LIFT with target designation by Tiger ARH helos. |
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TS21 JAPANESE GROUND FORCES
BOWEN NTH QLD: Pictorial: Japanese amphibious infantry are embedded with 3RAR during the security exercise activities in Bowen within TS21. |
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NEW ZEALAND TO CUT DEFENCE REFOCUS NZDF
NEW ZEALAND: New Zealand will abandon its NZDF modernisation after budget cuts and refocus the NZDF towards ideological goals of the Ardern government. |
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RAAF FLIES USMC HIRAIN INSERTIONS
TALISMAN SABRE: Pictorial: The RAAF's C-17A Globemasters have been airlifting the USMC's M142 HiMARS rocket artillery systems around southern Qld in simulated HIRAIN rocket bombardments within TS21. |
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TS21 FIELD MANOEUVRE
TALISMAN SABRE: Pictorial: Talisman Sabre hits its stride with major field manoeuvres at Townsville Field Traing Area and at the Whitsunday's town of Bowen. |
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NEW
RAAF F-35As IN ALASKA
ALASKA: An element of 3 Squadron is at Eielson AFB in Alaska for Ex Red Flag Alaska with a flight of brand new F-35As directly off the Lockheed Martin assembly line. |
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TS21 COMMANDO FAST ROPE
TINDAL NT: Pictorial. Australian Commandos fast rope from elite American 160th SOAR Nightstalkers Black Hawks at RAAF Tindal in the Top End within the TS21 CJSOTF. |
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TS21 160th SOAR NIGHTSTALKERS
TINDAL NT: Pictorial. The US Army Special Forces Command's elite 160th SOAR Nightstalkers flying out of RAAF Tindal in the Top End within the TS21 CJSOTF. |
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TS21 S100(S2) VTOL MTUAS
CORAL SEA: The Royal Australian Navy has deployed one of its interim MTUAS drones to operate off a frigate within TS21. |
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TALISMAN SABRE 21 FLEET
CORAL SEA: Pictorial. A 15 warship naval element composed of Royal Australian Navy, US Navy, Royal Canadian Navy, Japanese and South Korean warships is training in the Coral Sea within TS21. |
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TS21 SPECIAL OPERATIONS FORCES HALO
TOP END NT: Pictorial. First images of the Talisman Sabre Combined Joint Special Operations Task Force - MC-130Js HALO jumps and Night Stalker helos. |
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DEFENCE PUTS TIGER ARH UP FOR SALE
AUSTRALIA: The Department of Defence has listed the Army's Tiger ARH helicopters for sale in its 2021 arms sale catalogue. |
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TALISMAN SABRE 21 SLIDESHOW
TALISMAN SABRE: Pictorial. A torrent of excellent images is emerging out of Ex Talisman Sabre 2021 as the exercise picks up momentum. |
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RNZN ASSUMES COMMAND OF CTF150
MIDDLE EAST REGION: The Royal New Zealand Navy has assumed command of Combined Task Force 150 conducting Counter Narcotics and Counter Terrorism operations in Arabian waters. |
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TS21 31MEU MARINE FORCE RECON
CORAL SEA: Slideshow: US 31MEU Marine Force Recon and Rubber Raiding Craft crews in the Coral Sea during Talisman Sabre 2021. |
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US ARMY EXTENDED DEPLOYMENTS
AUSTRALIA: The Australian and US governments are in the final stages of negotiation over extended US Army deployments operating from Australian bases. |
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TS21 NAVAL GUNFIRE SUPPORT
SHOALWATER BAY: Slideshow: Australian, US Navy and Japanese warships bombard SWBTA from gunline in the Coral Sea during Talisman Sabre 2021. |
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TS21 M142 HIMARS BARRAGE
SHOALWATER BAY: Slideshow: A closeup pictorial of the joint USMC and US Army M142 HIMARS High Mobility Artillery Rocket Systems participating in Ex Talisman Sabre 2021. |
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TS21 SPECIAL OPERATIONS
TALISMAN SABRE WIDE: Special Operations Command Australia and United States Special Operations Command have raised a very low profile integrated Combined Joint Special Operations Task Force (CJSOTF) which is already active in Talisman Sabre. |
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TS21 FIREPOWER DEMONSTRATION
SHOALWATER BAY: The Australian Army, Royal Australian Navy and RAAF teamed up with the US Navy, USMC and US Army to conduct a naval, air, helicopter, artillery and missile barrage at SWBTA. |
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TS21 PATRIOT SAM LAUNCH
SHOALWATER BAY: Video: The US Army's 38th Air Defence Artillery Brigade's successful launch of an MIM-104D PAC 2 GEM Patriot Surface to Air Missile during Talisman Sabre 21 . |
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USS AMERICA EXPEDITIONARY STRIKE GROUP INBOUND
SOLOMON SEA: The US Navy's USS America Expeditionary Strike Group and its embarked airwing are inbound for the Coral Sea off Queensland and Exercise Talisman Sabre 2021. |
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TS21 OPENS WITH PATRIOT SAM LAUNCH
SHOALWATER BAY: Ex Talisman Sabre 2021 will kick off with the first ever Patriot Surface to Air Missile launches in Australia conducted by the US Army. |
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THE BLIND STRATEGIST
BOOK REVIEW: An Aussie Army Reservist's stunning analysis of the most widely followed Anglo American military strategic theories and doctrines may well rewrite the way the US led alliance approaches combat campaigns. |
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TURRETED BOXER CRV BLK 1 OPCON
WIDE BAY QLD: Lighthorsemen from 2/14 Light Horse Regt have successfully completed the first unit level turreted Boxer CRV live fire validation during the first Lance Turret Operational Conversion Course. |
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RNZAF P-8A POSEIDON OPERATIONAL CONVERSION
FLORIDA USA: The Royal New Zealand Air Force's transition to the P-8A Poseidon is gaining momentum with the first crewman certified on the type and all four airframes in production. |
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TALISMAN SABRE 21 KICKS OFF
AMBERLEY: Exercise Talisman Sabre 2021 has kicked off with an opening ceremony at RAAF Amberley and a Chinese Navy surveillance ship heading towards the Torres Strait. |
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ARMY INTRODUCES AIRSOFT EF-88 TRAINING WEAPONS
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Army has introduced a new EF-88 Airsoft conversion kit that fires non lethal but painful projectiles to augment its reality based dismounted Close Quarter Combat training programs. |
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ARMY DUMPS COMBAT FORCE GENERATION CYCLE
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Army has dumped its brigade based deployable combined arms battle group generation cycle in favour of ad hoc arrangements, less exercises and more barracks level basic skills and simulator training. |
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AFGHANISTAN ENDS
AFGHANISTAN: Photostory - The ADF has finally bothered to release the imagery of the final moments of our long and brutal war in Afghanistan almost a month after the last Anzacs were withdrawn in secrecy. |
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RQ-7B TUAS MANNED UNMANNED TEAMING
TOWNSVILLE: The Australian Army has revalidated its Manned Unmanned Teaming fire support capability using the RQ-7B Shadow 200 TUAS to designate targets. |
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C-27J SPARTAN EWSP MTC TERMINATED
CANBERRA: The RAAF has abandoned its efforts to certify the C-27J Spartan's Electronic Warfare Self Protection suite seriously limiting its wartime utility. |
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TWO NEW CHINOOKS DELIVERED
TOWNSVILLE: The Australian Army has accepted two new CH-47F Chinook heavy lift helos with two more new helicopters inbound next year. |
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TALISMAN SABRE SURFACE ACTION GROUP
AUSTRALIA: The RAN led international warship surface action group is assembling and working up ahead of Exercise Talisman Sabre 2021. |
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EX GAUNTLET STRIKE 2021
PUCKAPUNYAL: The most recent crop of young mechanised infantry, combat reconnaissance and main battle tank platoon and troop commanders were tested in the field under realistic live fire conditions during Ex Gauntlet Strike in June. |
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NZ ARMY INTRODUCES NEW HDT M8R 81mm MORTAR
NEW ZEALAND: The New Zealand Army has commenced its replacement of its old 1970s era L16 mortars with the new HDT M8R 81mm mortar system. |
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HMAS PERTH FINALLY BACK IN THE WATER
HENDERSON WA: HMAS Perth, a few years ago considered the most advanced frigate on earth, is finally back in the water after a ridiculously long dry dock period before her eventual AMCAP upgrade. |
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SOC-AUST USING SIG MCX
HOLSWORTHY NSW: Special Operations Command - Australia has introduced the SIG MCX into service, rumoured to be chambered in .300 AAC Blackout. |
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ARMY COUNTER sUAS TRIALS
TOWNSVILLE: 3 Brigade's 2 Cavalry Regiment is conducting ASLAV-S based field trials of the advanced Aussie DroneShield RfOne MkII UAS detection and tracking system. |
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AFGHANISTAN WITHDRAWAL
AFGHANISTAN: The Australian Defence Force has completed its withdrawal from Afghanistan ahead of the US final deadline of September 11, in a regrettable end to our longest war. |
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SOUTH KOREA TO TRIAL AS21 REDBACK AFV
SOUTH KOREA: The Republic of Korea Army will trial the AS21 Redback IFV prototype IFVs after the Australian Army's Mounted Close Combat Capability trials are finished. |
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RAAF AN/ALQ-249 MID BAND PRODUCTION APPROVAL
USA: The joint US Navy/RAAF funded project to field the Next Generation Jammer - Mid Band on their EA-18G Growlers has moved forward with low rate production approved. |
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SOUTHERN JACKAROO SNIPERS
MT BUNDEY NT: Slideshow - Snipers from Australia, Japan and the US Marine Corps got together for a cooperative shoot in the Northern Territory during Exercise Southern Jackaroo in June. |
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EX SOUTHERN JACKAROO
MT BUNDEY NT: Slideshow - Australian, Japanese and US Marine Corps ground forces conduct live fire and field training manoeuvres in the Northern Territory. |
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SPACE SURVEILLANCE TELESCOPE WORKING UP
EXMOUTH WA: The RAAF Space Division is working up its personnel and technology to brings its new WA based advanced exo-atmospheric surveillance systems to fully operational status. |
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WARRAMUNGA RETURN TO SERVICE DUE
FLEET BASE WEST: The third RAN frigate to emerge from the AMCAP upgrade program in WA was scheduled to return to general RAN tasking this month. |
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TURRETED BOXER CRV OPCON UNDERWAY
BRISBANE: Army Operational Conversion training on the new turreted Boxer CRV Block 1 Lance turret is underway at Gallipoli Barracks in Brisbane. |
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AUSTRALIA TO ARM PNGDF MINOR WARSHIPS
AUSTRALIA: Australia has agreed to a Papua New Guinea government request to arm the new patrol boats we are gifting the Pacific Island nation. |
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RAAF LIGHTNING II MOMENTUM
WILLIAMTOWN NSW: The RAAF's 41st F-35A is flying in Texas and its second squadron is close to completing its initial Operational Conversion Course on the new strike fighter. Pic Tim Wurth |
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USAF MC-130J COMMANDO IIs FLY IN
RICHMOND NSW: A mission package of advanced USAF MC-130J Commando II special operations airlifters have quietly flown into RAAF Richmond as international military contingents head into Australia for the primary exercise period. Pic Glen Greathead |
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RAAF HONOURS ITS VC HEROES
WILLIAMTOWN NSW: The RAAF has named its four JTAC support PC-21s in honour of the service's four historical Victoria Cross heroes. |
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RNZN TO ACQUIRE HII REMUS 300 AUV
NEW ZEALAND: The RNZN has ordered a next generation Autonomous - Unmanned Underwater Vehicle for its mine countermeasures and hydrographic survey operations. |
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OLD HABITS DIE HARD
OPINION: A British special operations analyst points out serious threats to modern Special Warfare operators in the social media and digital biometric software age. |
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AOR STALWART ARRIVES IN AUSTRALIA
FLEET BASE WEST: The RAN's second Supply class Auxiliary Oiler Replenishment has arrived in Western Australia ahead of her final systems integration and commissioning into RAN service. |
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NCO DECORATED FOR TAJI ROCKET ATTACK RESPONSE
AUSTRALIA: An Australian Army infantry NCO has been decorated for his leadership during the mass casualty rocket attack on the Coalition facility at Taji near Baghdad in March 2020. |
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2CER WIRE OBSTACLE EXPLOSIVE BREACHING
SHOALWATER BAY: Photostory - Sappers from the Brisbane based 2nd Combat Engineer Regiment breach wire obstacles with explosives during Ex Diamond Walk 21. |
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MOURILYAN HARBOUR AIR ASSAULT
FAR NORTH QUEENSLAND: Photostory - 2RAR Amphib and 40 Commando Royal Marines conducted an air mobile assault in Chinooks to clear and secure the Mourilyan sugar terminal at the culmination of Ex Sea Explorer. |
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ENTIRE MRH-90 FLEET GROUNDED
AUSTRALIA: The ADF's entire fleet of MRH-90 Tactical Transport Helicopters are grounded again, right in the middle of the ADF's intense covid training rebound. |
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AUSSIE DRONESHIELD C-UAS SYSTEMS SUCCESS
AUSTRALA: The cutting edge Aussie made DroneShield Counter - Small UAS (C-SUAS) systems are being snapped up by international countries, including major NATO and Five Eyes partners. |
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40 COMMANDO ROYAL MARINES RETURN
FAR NORTH QUEENSLAND: Royal Marines from the elite 40 Commando are back in Australia attached to 2RAR (Amphib) after a pandemic related absence. |
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EX SOUTHERN JACKAROO 21
NORTHERN TERRITORY: Japanese infantry, Marine Rotational Force - Darwin and the NT based 1st Brigade have commenced Ex Southern Jackaroo 2021, the event returning after missing 2020 due to the pandemic. |
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AMPHIBIOUS BATTLE GROUP EXTRACTION
COWLEY BEACH FNQ: Photostory - The 3RAR combined arms battle group's amphibious extraction from Cowley Beach back to HMAS Canberra and HMAS Choules. |
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'GAME CHANGER' ENVG-B INBOUND
AUSTRALA: A&NZD can confirm that the 'cutting edge helmet mounted fused night vision system' for the Army as vaguely announced by the Minister in February is in fact the revolutionary ENVG-B networked night fighting tactical system. |
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EXERCISE ARNHEM THUNDER
NT TOP END: Photostory: More outstanding imagery from the RAAF's expeditionary air wing deployment to the Top End and Tindal's home based 75 Squadron during Ex Arnhem Thunder. |
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EX SEA EXPLORER AMPHIBIOUS ASSAULT
COWLEY BEACH FNQ: Photostory The ADF's Amphibious Ready Group is exercising its over the beach force emplacement capacity in Far North Queensland. |
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URGENT COLLINS CLASS SUB UPGRADE
CANBERRA: The Government has approved an expanded and expedited systems upgrade and lethality improvement to the RAN's inservice Collins class submarines to hedge against the failure of the Attack class SSG build. |
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MRTT AUTOMATED REFUELLING TRIALS SUCCESSFUL
SPAIN: Airbus Military has successfully completed Automated Air to Air Refuelling (A3R) flight trials approving the amazing new capability to enter service in RAAF KC-30A MRTT tankers. |
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KAC OFFERING CUSTOM SASS FOR AUST ARMY
AUSTRALIA: The Knights Armaments Company are offering a custom Semi Automatic Sniper System evolution of the inservice M110 to fulfill the Land 159 Medium Range Anti Personnel Sniper Rifle requirement. |
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EXERCISE DIAMOND WALK
SHOALWATER BAY: Photostory The Brisbane based 7 Brigade is supporting 6RAR (Mech) with Abrams, Boxers and artillery during the three week Exercise Diamond Walk. |
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HAWKEI PMV-L IOC DECLARED & RESTRICTIONS LIFTING
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Army has declared IOC after accepting a Hawkei PMV-L fix developed by Thales Australia and subcontractors which should allow all offroad and rough track restrictions to be lifted. |
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AUSTRALIAN PRECISION SNIPER RIFLE
AUSTRALIA: Adelaide based APRS's advanced 'take down' QTD1 sniper rifle is a stunning example of local 'sovereign' defence industrial excellence but is blocked from Army's next gen sniper rifle trials due to petty bureaucratic issues. |
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BOXER 30mm CANNON JAMMING ISSUES
AUSTRALIA: Delays caused by systems integration issues in the Boxer's new Lance turret and problems with its main cannon jamming have been revealed in Senate estimates hearings. |
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AUSSIE APACHE WILL BE TOP SHELF
USA: A close analysis of the US Govt approval of the Australian Army's AH-64Ev6 Apache buy reveals a combat helicopter chock full of the most advanced avionics, sensors and weapons systems. |
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CDF CAMPBELL'S AFGHAN SOTG CREDIBILITY BLASTED
CANBERRA: Chief of Defence Force General Angus Campbell's credibility and honesty over his claims to have known 'nothing' of Afghan SOTG inquiry claims have been seriously called into question in Senate hearings. |
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RAAF LIGHTNINGS COMPLETE ARNHEM THUNDER
NORTHERN TERRITORY: Slideshow of the RAAF's new F-35A Lightnings during their first fully loaded training activity in the NT's Top End. Outstanding RAAF pix. |
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NEXT GEN GROUND COMBAT STEALTH
AUSTRALIA: High tech materials are set to revolutionise military uniforms and introduce low observable 'stealth' technology to the ground combat elements. |
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LMT PERSONAL DEFENCE WEAPONS
AUSTRALIA: SA's Force Ordnance is tendering LMT Defense's compact for the Australian Defence Force's Low Profile and Personal Defence Weapon requirement. |
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MAXIM PERSONAL DEFENCE WEAPONS
AUSTRALIA: Weapon's companies are revealing their solutions for the ADF's next gen subguns with some very gucci gear like the Maxim range of PDWs tendered by Precision Technic Defence. |
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US NAVY ZERO MQ-4C BUDGET FOR 2021/22
USA: The US Navy has extended its 'freeze' on MQ-4C Triton drone acquisitions, further destabilising the RAAF's already contracted buy of the advanced maritime surveillance system. |
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HMAS SUPPLY DEPARTS ON FIRST TASK
PACIFIC OCEAN: The RAN's new AOR HMAS Supply has left Fleet Base East in Sydney Harbour on her first training task since commissioning in April. |
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RSAF CH-47F CHINOOKS QLD BOUND
SINGAPORE: The Republic of Singapore Air Force's new upgraded CH-47F Chinook helicopters will be long term based in Australia. |
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RAN SOLOMON ISLANDS OPERATIONS
SOLOMON ISLANDS: The RAN's Armidale class Patrol Boat has completed a two week operational deployment to support the Solomon Islands' border security and fisheries protection. |
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IAI OFFERING ADVANCED LOITERING MUNITIONS TO ADF
AUSTRALIA: Israeli advanced weapons developer IAI is offering its advanced suicide UAS and a local Australian owned sovereign manufacturing capacity to the Australian Army for its Loitering Munitions requirement. |
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2ND FRENCH AUSTRALIAN SOUTH CHINA SEA OP
SOUTH CHINA SEA: HMAS Parramatta has embedded within the French Jeanne D'Arc 21 Task Group to transit the South China Sea in defiance of Chinese claims. |
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US SEEKS TO EXPAND AUSSIE FOOTPRINT
CANBERRA: The US Government has proposed building an equipment and munitions 'war stores' pre positioning facility in the Northern Territory amongst other military cooperation initiatives. |
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BOXER MRVs FIRST FIELD EX
SHOALWATER BAY: Video: 2/14 Light Horse Regiment has deployed some of its new Boxer MRVs to SWBTA for Exercise Diamond Walk with 6RAR and M1A1 Abrams MBTs . |
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NEW CBRN KIT ENTERS SERVICE
KAPOOKA NSW: The Australian Defence Force's next generation Chemical Biological Radiological and Nuclear personnel protection equipment has entered service. |
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HMAS ADELAIDE REFIT & PROPULSION UPGRADE
SYDNEY HARBOUR: The Amphibious Assault Ship HMAS Adelaide has entered dry dock for a major refit and replacement of her problematic Azimuth Thruster propulsion drive. |
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BOXER BLOCK 1 GUNCAR IIS?
BRISBANE: Army has declined to comment, but the first turreted Boxer Block 1 CRVs are scheduled to enter service with 2/14LHR in Brisbane 'mid year'. |
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AOR STALWART INBOUND
SPAIN: The RAN's second Supply class Auxiliary Oiler Replenishment is Western Australia bound on her maiden voyage after completing her build in Fene Ferrol in northern Spain. |
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AGM-88G AARGM-ER TRIALS
USA: The RAAF is closely watching the US Navy's AGM-88G Advanced Anti Radiation Guided Missile - Extended Range trials which promises to revolutionise SEAD/DEAD operations. |
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ENHANCED NASAMS GBAD DEVELOPMENTS
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Army's next generation E-NASAMS Ground Based Air Defence missile system is shaping up for entry into service in 18 months under Project Land 19 Phase 7B. |
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F-35A's TOOL UP IN TOP END AIR EX
DARWIN: The RAAF's new F-35A Lightning IIs have been bombed up in beast mode for the first time within Ex Arnhem Thunder in the NT Top End. |
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ADF TO RAISE SPACE DIVISION HQ WITHIN RAAF
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Defence Force will stand up a Space Division Headquarters within the RAAF to command and control all extra atmospheric military support systems. |
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'CURRAWONG' COMMUNICATIONS TECHNOLOGIES ROLL OUT
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Defence Force is introducing additional elements of its modern secure Project Currawong communications and networking technologies. |
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TANK TALK IS ALL ABOUT REAL WARFARE, NOT VAGUE IDEAS
OPINION: Former general and War on Terror veteran Senator Jim Molan defends the Australian Army's upgrade of its heavy armour upgrade program and slaps down some opinionated 'defence' commentators in The Australian |
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BALLARAT ON NORTH KOREA SANCTIONS OPS
JAPAN: The RAN's HMAS Ballarat has deployed to Japan under Op Argos to support United Nations monitoring of North Korean sanctions avoidance activities. |
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HMAS SYDNEY IN CANADA AFTER CSSQT IN CALIFORNIA
NORTH PACIFIC OCEAN: HMAS Sydney is conducting Anti Submarine Warfare systems trials off Canada after completing her CSSQT off Southern California. |
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RNZN SEEKS ANTARCTIC PATROL VESSEL
NEW ZEALAND: The New Zealand Department of Defence has issued an RFI for an ice strengthened armed Offshore Patrol Vessel to defend NZ's Southern Ocean, Ross Sea and Antarctic sovereignty. |
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EXERCISE TITAN PEGASUS 21
TEMORA NSW: SOCAust's 2nd Commando Regiment has conducted parachute insertion training in the lead up to multinational Special Operations during Ex Talisman Sabre 21 in Queensland next month. |
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5 AVN LEASED AW109 HELO
TOWNSVILLE: Army's 5 Aviation Regt is operating the first of a rumoured three leased Leonardo AW109 helicopters to make good MRH-90 TTH lack of availability. |
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FINAL RAAF 'FLYING' HORNET IN CANADA
CANADA: The Royal Canadian Air Force has taken delivery of the last of the retired RAAF F/A-18HUG Hornets it intends to fly in combat squadrons. |
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ONGOING AUSTRALIAN IRAQ OPERATIONS
IRAQ: While wound down from their 2017/18 high, Australian operations in Iraq continue with Special Operations and Combat Support personnel still active. |
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FN REVEALS MAG-58 SUCCESSOR
BELGIUM: Euro small arms ground breaker FN Herstal has revealed its new EVOLYS ultralite GSMG -successor to the legendary MAG-58 and Minimi family of combat automatics in service with the ADF |
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BEAST MODE PYLONS ON 3 SQN F-35A
RAAF WILLIAMTOWN: A sharp eyed aviation photographer has snapped the first image of an RAAF F-35A Lightning II flying with all six external weapons pylons affixed. Photos by Glen Greathead |
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RCN BREAKS AUSSIE HEROIN SEIZURE RECORD
ARABIAN SEA: The Canadian frigate HMCS Calgary has broken the Middle East heroin seizure record set by the Aussie frigate HMAS Darwin way back in 2014. |
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RAN PATROL BOAT DEPLOYS TO SOLOMONS
SOLOMON ISLANDS: The RAN has deployed an Armidale class Patrol Boat to the Solomon Islands to support the nation's border security during the pandemic. |
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77 SQUADRON F-35A LIGHTNINGS ARRIVE
RAAF WILLIAMTOWN: The RAAF's F-35A fleet has expanded to over half strength with four new Lightning IIs arriving at RAAF Williamtown, including three for the working up 77 Squadron. Photos by Glen Greathead |
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SOUTH CHINA SEA FONOP
SOUTH CHINA SEA: The RAN has completed another transit of the South China Sea in defiance of Chinese claims, this time with four warships. |
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URGENT COLLINS CLASS SUB UPGRADE
CANBERRA: Reports that the Department of Defence is planning on expediting a major upgrade to the Collins class submarines are emerging from Canberra. |
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USMC ADVANCED RECONNAISSANCE VEHICLE
USA: The US Marine Corps is looking for a light, lethal, smart and aware Advanced Recon Vehicle to replace its inservice LAVs. |
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ROYAL MARINE JET PACK VIDEO
UNITED KINGDOM: Video. Brit Royal Marine Commandos employ a radical new technology jet suit in Ship Underway Recovery training. |
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RNZN FRIGATE UPGRADE GAINS MOMENTUM
NEW ZEALAND: The Royal New Zealand Navy's Frigate Combat Systems Upgrade program is moving ahead, with one warship returning to service and the other near completion of its upgrade in Canada. |
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ARMOURED ENGINEER ASSAULT SUPPORT
WASHINGTON DC: The Royal Australian Engineers' next generation heavy armour assault vehicles were also approved by the US DSCA during the clearance publications. |
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COMPLACENCY AN ENEMY
OPINION: Former General and Iraq War commander Senator Jim Molan says Australia must act now to prepare for potential major conflict in the near future in a commentary published in The Australian. |
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RAPTOR & WEDGETAIL INTEGRATION IN HAWAII
HAWAII: The RAAF has very quietly integrated its E-7A Wedgetail with the USAF's top shelf F-22A Raptor in interoperability exercises to develop the ultimate air combat partnership. |
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MORE CHINOOKS FOR ARMY
WASHINGTON DC: The US Government has approved a request to sell additional Chinook helicopters to the Australian Army. |
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M1A2C ABRAMS FOR AUSTRALIAN ARMY
WASHINGTON DC: The US Government has approved a request for an expanded fleet of the latest M1A2C Abrams for the Australian Army. |
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NZ DECORATES TAJI ROCKET ATTACK RESPONDERS
NEW ZEALAND: New Zealand has decorated 2/1RNZIR infantrymen and medics for their actions in response to the mass casualty rocket attack on Taji in Iraq in March 2020. |
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M1156 PGK INTEGRATED ON ASSEGAI ARTY ROUND
SOUTH AFRICA: The M1156 Precision Guidance Kit is being integrated onto the long range rocket assisted Assegai 155mm rounds entering service with the Australian Army. |
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TOP END TRAINING AREAS UPGRADE
NORTHERN TERRITORY: The Australian Army's major field and close training areas in the Northern Territory will undergo major upgrades to facilitate multi domain combat training. |
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HEAVILY ENCRUSTED KRI NANGGALA PIX
INDONESIA: Imagery of the lost Indonesian submarine KRI Nanggala taken in October 2020 and published by A&NZD last December reveals a heavily encrusted hull and control surfaces in dire need of maintenance. |
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RAAF GBU-58 PAVEWAY II LASER GUIDED BOMBS
AUSTRALIA: The RAAF will introduce the advanced GBU-58 Paveway II Laser Guided Bomb to arm its future MQ-9B Skyguardian fleet. |
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US APPROVES 12 MQ-9B RPAS FOR RAAF
USA: The US State Department has approved a sale for up to 12 MQ-9B Skyguardians and a large weapons package for the RAAF. |
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AUSTRALIA JOINS SEARCH FOR MISSING SUB
AUSTRALIA: Australia has redirected HMAS Ballarat and Sirius from their current Regional Presence deployments to join the multi-national search for Indonesia's missing submarine. |
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DIGGERS AT WAR IN A NATION AT PEACE
AUSTRALIA: Australia's leading international security strategist's erudite column on the complexities but continued relevance of Anzac Day 2021. |
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LOCAL LRASM-SURFACE LAUNCH CONSORTIUM
AUSTRALIA: Lockheed Martin and Thales Australia have teamed up to produce the stealthy and tactically adept AGM-158 LRASM-Surface Launch in Australia for the RAN and the Army's requirements. |
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AUSSIE ROCKET PROPELLED GRENADE
AUSTRALIA: Aussie advanced encapsulated munitions developer DefendTex has developed a lethal long range rocket propelled grenade which is launched from standard inservice 40mm GLAs. |
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RNZAF P-3K2 ON NORTH KOREA SANCTIONS OPS
NEW ZEALAND: New Zealand is deploying a P-3K2 Orion to Japan to fly surveillance missions to monitor North Korea sanctions violations in the East Sea and Sea of Japan. |
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COMBINED AUSTRALIAN/FRENCH SOUTH CHINA SEA NAVAL TRANSIT
SOUTH CHINA SEA: A package of four Australian and French warships completed a transit of the South China Sea in mid April in defiance of Chinese territorial claims. |
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JAEGER-C UGV AUTONOMOUS SMART MUNITION
AUSTRALIA: Qld's Gaardtech has produced a smart wheeled armoured small UGV able to autonomously hunt and kill hostile armoured vehicles. |
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84mm M4 MRWS ENTERS SERVICE
AUSTRALIA: The new lighter and more accurate 84mm M4 Multi Role Weapons System has been introduced into service at the SOI ahead of roll out to combat units. |
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AFGHAN SOTG MUC REVOCATION REVERSED
CANBERRA: The new Defence Minister has reversed the General Campbell's group punishment revocation of the SOTG Meritorious Unit Citation and restored the award to SOTG Afghanistn veterans. |
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MRF-D 21 ACE FLYING IN TOP END
DARWIN NT: The USMC has deployed an Air Combat Element (ACE) of Vipers, Venoms and Ospreys into Darwin to support Marine Rotational Force - Darwin 2021 |
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US RAISES THE WHITE FLAG IN AFGHANISTAN
EDITORIAL: The US President's unconditional retreat from Afghanistan by September 11, will escalate not 'end these forever wars'. Editorial by John Hunter Farrell |
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AUSTRALIAN END OF AFGHAN MISSION TIMELINE
AFGHANISTAN: The Prime Minister's official Afghanistan 'end of mission' statement brings a finality to Australia's longest modern war. Pic John Hunter Farrell |
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REGIONAL PRESENCE DEPLOYMENT 2021 -2
AUSTRALIA: The RAN has deployed a second task group of two warships to the western Pacific in the second phase of its 2021 regional surge. |
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GROWLER BLOCK II UPGRADE
AUSTRALIA: The US Navy's commencement of the Growler Block II upgrade sets the timeline for the RAAF's Growler enhancement program. |
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EF-88 SUPPRESSOR FOR RAR BATTALIONS
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Army is introducing suppressors for the EF-88 MWS rifle in its Royal Australian Regiment infantry battalions next month. |
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GOVT ADVERTISES BLACK HAWKS FOR SALE
CANBERRA: The Australian Army's days flying the Black Hawk are numbered with the Dept of Defence seeking buyers interested in the surviving helicopters. |
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ALE-55 DECOY INTEGRATED ON P-8A
USA: The US Navy has integrated the AN/ALE-55 towed missile decoy onto its P-8A Poseidons using an innovative and low cost solution. |
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AOR SUPPLY COMMISSIONING
SYDNEY HARBOUR: The RAN's new Auxiliary Oiler Replenishment will enter service as HMAS Supply after her commissioning service at Fleet Base East tomorrow. |
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RAAFIES RENAMED 'AVIATORS'
CANBERRA: The RAAF has ditched the old term 'airmen' for its serving personnel, replacing it with 'aviators' as a generic descriptor for RAAFies. |
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11/28RWAR COMBAT SHOOTING PROGRAM
BINDOON WA: Photostory: Slideshow, 11/28RWAR Diggers undergo advanced combat shooting training on the EF-88M rifle and L9A1 pistol. |
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HALF OF RAAF F-35A FLEET BUILT & FLYING
TEXAS USA: The RAAF has hit a key F-35A milestone with half of the currently ordered fleet having rolled off the production line and in flight. |
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POLLIES WANT A PACIFIC ISLAND REGT
CANBERRA: A Canberra parliamentary sub committee has recommended Australia raise a Pacific Island Regiment using high pay and easy citizenship to recruit foreign mercenaries in place of Aussie Anzacs. |
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EXERCISE LA PEROUSE
BAY OF BENGAL: Photostory: The RAN has joined in the French led Ex La Perouse with the Indian, Japanese and US navies to demonstrate united resolve to defend freedom of the seas. |
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RAAF TO ARM GROWLER WITH AARGM & HARM
AMBERLEY SEQ: The RAAF will introduce the top shelf AARGM and combat proven HARM anti radar missiles to its Growlers this year - transforming our Airborne Electronic Attack into a lethal DEAD capability. |
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RPD21-1 INDO PACIFIC NAVAL OPERATIONS
INDO PACIFIC: Photostory: The RAN's Regional Presence Deployment activity with the US Navy and Japanese in the Indian Ocean and South China Sea. |
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US ARMY ACQUIRES IVAS SMART GOGGLE
USA: The US Army will introduce the revolutionary IVAS combat vision system which allows high resolution tactical feeds as well as next gen fused Optical/IR feeds to be fed directly into a soldier's eye piece. |
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REGIONAL SUPPORT CRAFT COMPLETES SEA TRIALS
YAMBA NSW: The Army's new Regional Support Craft has successfully completed it's manufacturers' sea trials prior to delivery to the Regional Force Surveillance Group in the Torres Strait. |
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EX HOWLING WOLF
WIDE BAY QLD: Video: C Squadron 2nd/14th Light Horse Regiment's M1A1 SA Abrams MBTs cut loose during crew certification. |
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EX TALISMAN SABRE 21 GOING AHEAD
QUEENSLAND: Exercise Talisman Sabre 2021 is going ahead in July with some international and a large ADF contingent. |
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LOCAL SMART MUNITION PRODUCTION SURGE
AUSTRALIA: Production of advanced military munitions, missiles, rocket fuels and explosives is expanding exponentially under Government initiatives as China threat grows. |
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LAST KIWIS OUT OF AFGHANISTAN
AFGHANISTAN: The final New Zealand Defence Force personnel are home in New Zealand after completing the nation's two decade mission in that country. |
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AUSTRALIAN COMBAT ROBOTICS DEMO
TOWNSVILLE: Australian developed digital combat robotics systems have been demonstrated at Lavarack Barracks to 3 Brigade. |
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MQ-4C TRITON PRODUCTION STABLISED
USA: The US Congress has bought another Triton for the US Navy which has stabilised the production run and lowered the risk to the RAAF acquisition of the type. |
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3RAR EX JUNGLE TRAINING WING TULLY
FAR NORTH QLD: Slideshow: 3RAR's Ready Combat Team conducted a short notice air mobile evacuation operation into Jungle Training Wing Tully in Qld's Wet Tropics rainforest. |
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DEFENCE MINISTER REPLACED
AUSTRALIA: The Government has appointed Peter Dutton to replace Linda Reynolds as Defence Minister. |
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OP NSW FLOOD ASSIST UNDERWAY
NEW SOUTH WALES: Slideshow: Military HADR operations across the flood zone in eastern NSW are fully engaged in Operation NSW Flood Assist 21-1. |
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BRIT HERC SALE COULD INTEREST RAAF
AUSTRALIA: The Brit decision to flog off their heavily accessorised Special Operations capable C-130J-30 fleet should attract the RAAF and Special Operations Command - Australia. |
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AUSTRALIAN ARMY STRATEGIC ASSESSMENT Q1 2021
CANBERRA: The Australian Army Research Centre has published its Strategic Assessment Quarter 1 2021. Read it here.... |
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OPERATION NSW FLOOD ASSIST
NEW SOUTH WALES: The ADF is responding to the flooding in NSW with an expanding Operation NSW Flood Assist 21-1. |
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NEW MULTI PURPOSE VESSELS
CANBERRA: A small fleet of next generation safety and support mission vessels for the Australian Army will be built in Cairns. |
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AWHERO V-MTUAS IN SEA 129/5 RACE
CANBERRA: Northrop Grumman Australia has disclosed it will be offering the advanced Leonardo AWHero V-MTUAS for Sea 129/5. |
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RAN MTUAS CONTENDERS SHORTLISTED
CANBERRA: Five contenders for the Navy's Maritime Tactical Unmanned Aerial System (MTUAS) requirment have been shortlisted for Sea 129 Phase 5. |
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ADF COMPLETES SHORT SOLOMONS OPS
SOLOMON ISLANDS: The ADF has completed a short operation in the Solomon Islands, deploying a patrol boat and a surveillance aircraft to support Solomons' sovereignty and fisheries protection. |
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RAN's 2ND NEW AOR SEA TRIALS
BAY OF BISCAY: The RAN second new Supply class Auxiliary Oiler Replenishment has commenced contractor sea trials off Spain prior to her delivery to Australia. |
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RAN FIXES CANBERRA AAS DRIVE
SYDNEY HARBOUR: The RAN has succesfully replaced the problematic azimuth propulsion pods on its Amphibious Assault Ship Canberra with sea trials 'performing very well'. |
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LONG RANGE APACHE MISSILE CAPABILITY
USA: The US Army has integrated a missile that quadruples the AH-64Ev6 Apache bought by Australia beyond visual range precision land and sea engagement. |
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END OF THE ARMY RESERVE AS WE KNOW IT
AUSTRALIA: The Army Reserve is about to be stripped of its combat brigade status and its iconic regiments and re organised for 'contingency response' to events like pandemics and natural disasters. |
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30x113mm CANNON & EOS RWS INTEGRATED ON BOXER
NETHERLANDS: EOS has demonstrated its Aussie made R400S Mk II RWS armed with the lethal 30mm M230LF Cannon on a Dutch Boxer MRV like those entering service in the Australian Army. |
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NEW MK 234 NULKA PRODUCTION & DEVELOPMENT FUNDING
CANBERRA: The Australian Government has awarded BAE Systems Australia a number of contracts to further develop and manufacture the Aussie Mk 234 Nulka Active Missile Decoy. |
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USMC TO CEASE ALL HAWAII HELO OPS
HAWAII: The US Marine corps is disbanding all its Hawaii based helicopter squadrons under its radical new reorganisation including two who deploy to Australia with MRF-Darwin. |
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AS21 REDBACK IRON FIST APS & SPIKE LR2 VALIDATED
ISRAEL: Pic and tech details of the Hanwha AS21 Redback advanced Active Protection System and Spike LR2 missile systems and their integrated suites. |
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AS21 REDBACK MISSILE LAUNCH VIDEO
ISRAEL: Video. Hanwha AS21 Redback Infantry Fighting Vehicle in full Australian specification during Spike LR2 live missile launch and targeting validation. |
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JAVELIN SURFACE TO AIR CAPABILITY
USA: The FIM-92J Block 1 has been integrated as an alternate munition for the FGM-148 Javelin missile system turning the type into a flexible ground/air engagement system. |
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NEXT GEN JAMMER LOW BAND FREEZE
USA: The US Navy has withdrawn AN/ALQ-249 Increment 2 Next Generation Jammer - Low Band development contracts almost certainly delaying the RAAF's acquisition of the Airborne Electronic Attack suite. |
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OFFICIAL LAUNCH OF LAND 400 PHASE 3 RMI
CANBERRA: The Army has conducted an official 'unveilling' ceremony for the public and press of both Project Land 400 Phase 3 candidates currently under trial. |
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HMAS SYDNEY ENROUTE TO CALIFORNIA FOR CSSQT
SYDNEY HARBOUR: The RAN's new Hobart class destroyer HMAS Sydney is enroute to California to undergo her Combat Systems Sea Qualification Trials. |
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COCOS KEELING RAAF FACILITY
CANBERRA: The RAAF will establish a new operating base at Cocos Keeling Airport deep in the north east Indian Ocean to conduct surveillance operations over Australia's sea based trade. |
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RAAF MIDDLE EAST AIRLIFT OPS
MIDDLE EAST: Photostory - The RAAF's C-17A Globemaster and C-130J Hercules airlift operations across the Middle East under Op Accordion. |
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AUSTRALIA SHOULD DO MORE THAN WAIT FOR ATTACK CLASS SUBMARINES
OPINION: Michael Shoebridge argues the case for Unmanned Underwater Vehicles (UUWS) within the RAN's submarine acquisition strategy in ASPI's The Strategist. |
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FIRST 77 SQUADRON F-35A FLIES
TEXAS USA: The first Australian F-35A Lightning II wearing 77 Squadron tail art has been revealed during its first flight in Texas. |
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RAAF F-35A OPCON GAINS PACE
RAAF WILLIAMTOWN: The RAAF's F-35A Lightning II entry into service is gaining momentum with the first new pilots undergoing OpCon at the F-35 Integrated Training Centre. |
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BOXER AIR DEFENCE OPTION
GERMANY: Rheinmetall has developed an Air Defence Boxer turret optimised for the latest battlefield threats from UAS and Precision Guided Munitions that will be very attractive to the Australian Army. |
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BUSHMASTER REPLACEMENT PROJECT
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Army has commenced the search for its Bushmaster PMV-M replacement with a view to the new capability entering service in seven to eight years. |
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USAF TRIALS FOR AUSSIE LOYAL WINGMAN UCAV
USA: The Australian designed and built Boeing/RAAF BATS Loyal Wingman UCAV is being trialled by the USAF Skyborg program and will fly in the highly classified Ex Orange Flag. |
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HMNZS AOTEAROA REFUELS HMAS HOBART
PACIFIC: Video: The RNZN's new Auxiliary Oiler Replenishment HMNZS Aotearoa refuels the Australian destroyer HMAS Hobart in the Tasman Sea, the first RAS between Aotearoa and the RAN. |
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ADF TO SUPPORT VACCINE DISTRIBUTION
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Defence Force will play a pivotal role in the Covid 19 vaccination program across the nation. |
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LOYAL WINGMAN FIRST FLIGHT
WOOMERA: The RAAF sponsored Boeing BATS Loyal Wingman, the most advanced Australian combat aircraft for 50 years, has successfully taken to the air at Woomera successfully completing its first flight. |
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ANZAC & SIRIUS REGIONAL PRESENCE OP
INDO PACIFIC: The RAN's recently upgrade warship HMAS Anzac and the underway oiler HMAS Sirius have deployed north into Asia on Regional Presence Deployment 21-1. |
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HMAS PIRIE TO DECOMMISSION
DARWIN: The Armidale class Patrol Boat HMAS Pirie will be decommissioned in a few weeks as the RAN transitions to its next gen patrol fleet. |
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USAF PACIFIC ASKS FOR WEDGETAILS
USA: The commander of USAF Pacific Air Forces has publicly stated that he wants E-7 Wedgetails like the RAAFs to augment his aging AWACS. |
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RAAF LRASM PRODUCTION
USA: Production of the RAAF's advanced next generation AGM-158C LRASM Long Range Anti Ship Missile have been awarded to Lockheed Martin by the US Department of Defence. |
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EX LIGHTNING FERRY 21-1
RAAF WILLIAMTOWN NSW: The RAAF now has two full strength F-35A units after the successful delivery of A35-031/32/33. Slideshow of the 12500km delivery flight. |
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DAMAGED F/A-18F UNDERGOING REPAIR
RAAF AMBERLEY SEQ: RAAF engineers are repairing the Super Hornet damaged during the crew ejection incident in December. |
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AUSTAL INVESTIGATED BY US GOVT
USA: The highly successful US based subsidiary of Western Australian warship builder Austal is under investigation by the US Govt over financial statements to investors. |
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NAVAL GROUP CEO TALKS
CANBERRA: The head of Naval Group is scheduled for intense meetings with Government ministers unhappy with the progress of the Attack class submarine build program. |
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COLLABORATIVE SWARMING MUNITIONS
USA: The USAF is trialling 'Collaborative' swarming munitions that talk to each other and use AI to conduct coordinated multi munition attacks. |
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HMNZS AOTEAROA INBOUND TO AUSTRALIA
TASMAN SEA: The RNZN's new Auxiliary Oiler Replenishment HMNZS Aotearoa is inbound to Australia for her first exercises with the Royal Australian Navy. |
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NATIONAL SECURITY AT RISK WITHOUT UNITY ON THREAT PREPARATION
OPINION: Senator Jim Molan calls for a unified sovereign approach to national security including civil , economic and cyber defence ... |
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NZ GOVT ANNOUNCES END OF AFGHAN OPS
AFGHANISTAN: The New Zealand Government has officially announced its end of operations in Afghanistan with the final NZDF personnel returning in the next few months. |
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BUSHMASTER VR SIM UPGRADED
ENOGGERA QLD: The Army's Bushmaster PMV training simulator has been upgraded to improve full immersion simulated battle spaces to improve training outcomes. |
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TAG BLACK HAWK EMERGENCY LANDING
SYDNEY HARBOUR: A 6Avn Black Hawk made an emergency landing at a Sydney Harbour side park after sustaining damage during an SUR counter terrorism exercise. Pic K.H. Media |
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DOES THE ROYAL AUSTRALIAN NAVY NEED TOMAHAWK MISSILES?
OPINION: Senior ASPI member Marcus Hellyer analyses the tactical numerics of potential RAN long range land strike missions for the Australian Strategic Policy Institute ... |
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DARPA's LONGSHOT CONCEPT
USA: The US Government's Defense Advanced Research Project Agency is funding the development of an Air Launched Drone that can fly ahead and launch its own Air to Air Missiles. |
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LAND 400 PHASE 3 TRIALS UNDERWAY
PUCKAPUNYAL VIC: The Australian Army has commenced its field and lab trials to select its next generation Armoured Fighting Vehicle under Project Land 400 Phase 3. |
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RAN WILL TAKE PART IN BRIT SE ASIA OPS
AUSTRALIA: The Royal Australian Navy will contribute a warship to the UK Royal Navy led Carrier Strike Group 21 when it deploys to the Pacific later this year. |
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RAAF HINTS AT 6TH GEN CAPABILITIES
CANBERRA: The Chief of Air Force has hinted that the RAAF may be looking at far more exciting things than more Lightning IIs in the not so far distant future. |
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RETIRED RAAF HORNETS CANADA BOUND
WILLIAMTOWN: Retired RAAF F/A-18HUG 'classic' Hornets will be transferred to Canada at higher rates to bolster that nation's miserable air defence capability. |
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MORE F-35As INBOUND TO WILLIAMTOWN
HAWAII: Additional new F-35A Lightning II Joint Strike Fighters have stopped over in Hawaii on their way to RAAF Williamtown in NSW. |
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HMAS PERTH's LONG DRY DOCK
HENDERSON WA: HMAS Perth, the youngest of the RAN's Anzac class frigates will have spent a full one third of her 15 year life in dry dock by the time she emerges from the AMCAP upgrade. |
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F/A-18F BLOCK III UPGRADE ISSUES
USA: The US Navy has revealed issues with key components in the Super Hornet Block III upgrade which have serious implications for the RAAF's own fleet upgrade. |
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MRFD-21 MARINES INBOUND
NORTHERN TERRITORY: Marine Rotational Force - Darwin 2021 is inbound for an extended deployment to Australia in a pandemic mitigation based phased force arrival. |
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BRIT ARMY ADOPTS DEFENDTEX DRONE40
UK: The British Army has acquired the cutting edge Aussie developed Defendtex Drone40 multimission 40mm GLA launched long range precision guided loitering munition. |
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NETWORKED DIGITAL ARMOUR SIMULATOR TRAINING
TOWNSVILLE: The Australian Army is introducing advanced simulator based networkable cross platform armoured vehicle training and mission rehearsal capacity. |
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LARC-V REPLACEMENT PROGRAM
CANBERRA: The Government has released an RFI seeking a designed and built in Australia, combat capable Amphibious Vehicle to replace the 1960s era LARC-V amphibian. |
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ADF NEXT GEN L3HARRIS GOGGLE
CANBERRA: L3Harris will provide the ADF's next gen 'Fusion Goggle System' which will introduce advanced capabilities right out of a science fiction film that will revolutionise ground combat. |
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MQ-4C TRITON COMBAT CAPABILITY
USA: The RAAF's Triton BAMS UAS will be upgraded with a targeting capability care of a USN funded upgrade - first sign since 2020 that the USN is still onboard with the joint USN/RAAF MQ-4C Triton program. |
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EX FIRST SHOT
GREENBANK QLD: Slideshow. Excellent imagery of 8/9RAR platoon command elements putting rounds down range using the latest combat shooting techniques. |
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USMC COMMENCES RADICAL PACIFIC REORG
HAWAII: The US Marine Corps has commenced its major reorganisation for Pacific Archipelagic Ops with the first Marine Littoral Regiment forming in Hawaii which will likely have a major impact on the ADF/NZDF. |
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BASTARD BEHIND THE LINES
BOOK REVIEW: Tom Gilling's exploration of Jock McLaren's escape from the Japs after Singapore and the Anzac role in the Philippine armed insurgency. |
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AH-64Ev6 ENTERS US ARMY SERVICE
USA: The advanced variant of the Apache helicopter ordered by Australia is entering service with a US Army attack/recon unit for the first time. |
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M1074 JOINT ASSAULT BRIDGE RELEASED
USA: The US Army's conditional Material Release of the next gen M1074 Joint Assault Bridge clears the way for the Australian Army to acquire the capable vehicle. |
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SIKORSKY TRIALS ViDAR TECH
AUSTRALIA: Helicopter manufacturer Sikorsky is trialling the Australian Kestrel ViDAR technology for integration into the MH-60R Romeo helo ISR suite. |
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NEW MINE COUNTERMEASURES AND HYDROGRAPHIC SHIPS
AUSTRALIA: The Government has announced an additional five Arafura evolution mine countermeasures and hydrographic survey ships for a total of eight to replace the Huons, Leeuwins and Palumas. |
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RAN CRUISE, STRIKE, AIR & MISSILE DEFENCE SHOPPING SPREE
AUSTRALIA: Navy has repackaged a bunch of programs into a single shopping list for Cruise Missiles, Air/Ballistic Missile Defence, long range sea and land strike, ASMD defence and new torpedoes to expedite their entry into service. |
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LRASM F-35 INTEGRATION
USA: Early phases of the integration of the AGM-158C LRASM Long Range Anti Ship Missile onto the F-35 for the US Navy are underway. |
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US ARMY'S NGSW FINAL TRIALS
USA: The US Army is about to commence final trials of its Next Generation Squad Weapons prototypes ahead of a type selection and introduction into service as early as next year. |
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FIJI HADR COMPLETE
FIJI: The ADF's Humanitarian Aid and Disaster Relief operation in Fiji is complete with the task force returning home. |
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ADF EMPLOYS ADEPT TACTICAL TARGETS
AUSTRALIA: The ADF is employing contractor flown tactically adept jet drones to simulate advanced modern threats to validate missile and sensor accuracy and AI assisted commander decision making. |
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ESSM BLOCK 2 NEXT YEAR
AUSTRALIA: The next generation Raytheon RIM-162 Evolved Sea Sparrow Missile Block II will be introduced into RAN service next year. |
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GOVT EXPLORES SUBMARINE ALTERNATIVES
CANBERRA: Well placed reports that the Govt is exploring alternatives to the $90 billion French Attack class submarine design have been leaked. |
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SUPPLY DEPLOYS TO FLEET BASE EAST
SYDNEY HARBOUR: The new underway oiler replenishment has arrived at her home port Fleet Base East ahead of her commissioning into service as HMAS Supply. |
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AH-64Ev6 APACHE GUARDIAN INBOUND
CANBERRA: The Government has confirmed an acquisition of the AH-64Ev6 Apache Guardian to replace the expensive and underperforming Airbus Tiger ARH. |
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MH-60R MV SYCAMORE TRIALS
AUSTRALIA: The RAN completed MH-60R Romeo First of Class Flight Trials on the Multi Role Aviation Vessel in December clearing the way for the type to fly off the training ship. |
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OPERATION FIJI ASSIST
FIJI: Slideshow of the Australian Defence Force's Humanitarian Aid and Disaster Relief operations in Fiji after Cyclone Yasa. |
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AS21 REDBACK VIDEO
AUSTRALIA: Video. Hanwha AS21 Redback Infantry Fighting Vehicle in full Australian specification in motion. |
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AS21 REDBACK LAND 400/3 IFV REVEALED
AUSTRALIA: The Hanwha AS21 Redback IFV contender for Land 400/3 has been revealed in full Aussie configuration for the first time. First pics |
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ANAO HAWKIE REDACTIONS REVEALED
CANBERRA: Redacted elements of an ANAO report have been declassified revealing bureaucratic cover up and, surprise surprise, it would have been cheaper to buy US gear. |
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AOR SUPPLY ACCEPTED
FLEET BASE WEST WA: The RAN has formally accepted the new AOR Supply from contractor Navantia ahead of her movement to Sydney Harbour where she will enter service. |
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NAVAL MISSILE COSTS
USA: Using a mix of known Australian acquistion costs and published US Navy figures we have tried to calculate the cost of missile load outs for RAN warships. |
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NEXT GEN JAMMER LOW BAND FUNDING
USA: The joint US Navy/RAAF funded Next Generation Jammer for the EA-18G Growler is moving forward with Low Band prototyping commencing this month. |
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BELL 412EPI ENTERS INDON ARMY SERVICE
INDONESIA: The first Bell 412EPI helicopter has entered Tentara Nasional Indonesia - Angkatan Darat service. |
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OPV GIPPSLAND BUILD BEGINS
HENDERSON WA: Welding of hull components on the fourth next generation Arafura class OPV Gippsland has commenced at Civmec in WA. |
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F-35 FULL RATE PRODUCTION DELAYED
USA: The US Government has delayed its approval for F-35 full rate production due to capability validation and technology finalisation delays. |
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THIRD MRH-90 GUN MOUNT
AUSTRALIA: A new foldaway gun mount and minigun is promising to improve if not entirely resolve the MRH-90's vulnerability issues. |
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RETHINKING WOMEN IN GROUND CLOSE COMBAT
OPINION: An experienced British Army officer puts women in ground close combat under scientific analysis with some disturbing military outcomes. Reproduced from the UK military think tank the Wavell Room ... |
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HOSTILE DRONES CAPTURED NEAR INDON BASES
INDONESIA: The Indonesian Navy's capture of three Chinese UUWS drones very close to its naval bases and strategic shipping lanes has direct and worrying implications for Australia. |
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ADF FIJI HADR
FIJI: The ADF disaster response element has arrived in northern Fiji ready to provide assistance to victims of Cyclone Yasa. |
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TWO MORE P-8A POSEIDONS FOR RAAF
CANBERRA: The RAAF will acquire an additional two P-8A Poseidons after Australia exercised its contractual options. |
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SSG SONAR UPGRADE
FLEET BASE WEST WA: The RAN's Collins class submarines will be upgraded with new mine detection and situational awareness sonars and electronic warfare detection arrays. |
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ADF COMPLETES IMSC OPS
BAHRAIN: The ADF has completed its IMSC Combined Joint Task Force Sentinel security ops in the Strait of Hormuz and Bab El Mandeb. |
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RAAF DECLARES F-35A OPERATIONAL
WILLIAMTOWN NSW: The RAAF has certified its F-35A Lightning II units as operational declaring IOC achievement. |
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ADF CONFIRMS AH-64Ev6 'LIKELY'
AUSTRALIA: The ADF has confirmed the AH-64Ev6 Apache will replace the Tiger ARH according to media reports emerging from Canberra. |
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FINAL AS21 REDBACK INBOUND
KOREA: Hanwha Defense has shipped its final AS21 Redback IFV for Australia and the Land 400 Phase 3 RMA field and tech trials that kick off next month. |
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LOYAL WINGMAN WILL FLY IN 2021
AUSTRALIA: The Boeing/RAAF codeveloped ATS Loyal Wingman is scheduled to fly in 2021 after a rapid development and build of the prototypes. |
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LOYAL WINGMAN FAST TAXI VIDEO
AUSTRALIA: Video. Boeing has released video of the BATS Loyal Wingman prototype conducting its first fast taxi trials ahead of its first flight. |
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ADF LAUNCHES FIJI CYCLONE RESPONSE
FIJI: The Australian and New Zealand Defence Forces have conducted damage assessment reconnaissance flights and delivered emergency aid to Fiji in the wake of Cyclone Yasa. |
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GUCCI NZSAS GEAR
NEW ZEALAND: A close look at a new image of Delta Squadron 1NZSAS reveals that some very advanced weaponry and kit has entered service across the ditch. |
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HMNZS TE KAHA HOME TOMORROW
NEW ZEALAND: The RNZN's upgraded HMNZS Te Kaha returns to Auckland on Dec 20, late and overbudget but reborn as a very capable modern naval combatant. First decent pics of her new configuration. |
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MAJOR WESTERN AUSTRALIA ARMY EXPANSION
WESTERN AUSTRALIA: Army is planning to radically upgun its WA based 13 Bde with regular troops, light armour, amphib, recon and artillery elements. |
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RAAF F-35A LIGHTNING IOC
WILLIAMTOWN NSW: The RAAF's F-35A Lightning IOC operational certification is looming as the December 2020 deadline approaches. |
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ADF & NZDF MAINTAIN NORTH KOREA OPS
JAPAN: The Australian and New Zealand Defence Forces have maintained their commitments to the UN sanctions monitoring ops against North Korea while other nations have cut contributions during the pandemic. |
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WOKE WAR ON THE ANZAC SPIRIT
EDITORIAL: The Minister and the Top Brass have legitimised a social media troll war on our Anzacs that is evolving into an all out woke war on the Anzac Spirit. Editorial by John Hunter Farrell |
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KIWI BUSHMASTER 5.5 DETAILS
NEW ZEALAND: The New Zealand Army's new Bushmaster PMV-Ms will be substantially more capable than the legacy Australian Army Bushies. |
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NEW TASMANIAN REGIONAL FORCE SURVEILLANCE UNIT
HOBART: A famous old Tasmanian infantry battalion will transition into a new Regional Force Surveillance Unit under the Army's new Order of Battle. |
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THREE HOBART CEC SYSTEMS FUSION
PACIFIC OCEAN: All three RAN Hobart class destroyer successfully achieved systems fusion and missile engagements during a first ever three DDG Cooperative Engagement Capability activity off NSW. |
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ONLY ONE OPERATIONAL RAAF FIGHTER SQN
AUSTRALIA: The combination of the grounding of the Rhinos and Growlers and operational conversion to the Lightning II has seen the RAAF accidently reduced to one operational combat jet squadron. Pic Sid Mitchell |
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LAND 400/3 VARIANT RATIONALISATION
AUSTRALIA: Army is finalising the number and configurations of the Land 400/3 tracked armoured vehicle it wants to equip its future assault elements with. |
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FUZED NITE VISION BINOCULAR
AUSTRALIA: Army is acquiring a next gen Fuzed Goggle System that integrates night vision, thermal and augmented reality in the one unit. |
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THREE SHIP HOBART DDG EX
PACIFIC OCEAN: All three of the RAN's Hobart class Guided Missile Destroyers are operating together for the first time conducting combined training off NSW. Pic Matthew Montague |
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FINAL WILLIAMTOWN HORNET OPS
RAAF WILLIAMTOWN NSW: Bad weather forecasts have seen the RAAF hedge its bets for the final 77 Sqn Hornet formation flight rescheduling a formation for today with an option to do it again tomorrow. |
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NEXT GEN M4 MRWS INBOUND
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Army will commence its roll out of the next generation 84mm 'Charlie Gutsache' next year. |
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RAAF F/A-18F CRASH
AMBERLEY: An RAAF F/A-18F Block II+ Super Hornet has been involved in a serious incident on take off from RAAF Amberley with the crew forced to eject. Pic Kieron Ball |
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81mm MORTAR OPCON
AUSTRALIA: The Army's Operational Conversion from the F2 to the M252A1 81mm mortar is progressing despite the pandemic restrictions and some difficult technical complications. |
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ARMY RESTOCKS M825A1 WP
USA: Army is restocking its 155mm M825A1 WP munitions and advanced fuzes as part of its revitalisation of Joint Fires. |
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MASS SASR RESIGNATIONS/ REFUSALS TO PARADE
SWANBOURNE WA: A large number of serving SASR Operators have resigned from the Australian Army in protest at their treatment after the IGADF report was released. |
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PLANNED HEAVY ARMOURED BRIGADE
AUSTRALIA: Army is planning on raising a heavy armoured brigade for high intensity peer to peer warfare operations as part of the objective 2028 Order of Battle. |
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1AR TRIALS HAWKEI COMBAT RECON
EDINBURGH SA: The 1st Armoured Regt has been issued a fleet of new Hawkei PMV-L to trial as Combat Reconnaissance platforms. |
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HMNZS TE KAHA COMPLETES UPGRADE
NORTH PACIFIC: The new look HMNZS Te Kaha is homeward bound from Canada after completing her comprehensive combat systems upgrade. |
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RARE INDONESIAN NAVAL SOF PICS
INDONESIA: Rare imagery of Komando Pasukan Katak (KOPASKA Underwater Special Unit) divers operating with a TNI-AL Type 209 submarine have emerged |
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AUS/US HYPERSONIC MISSILE DEVELOPMENT
AUSTRALIA: Australia and the USA are codeveloping a next gen hypersonic strike missile system for the RAAF and US military under a rapid development and demonstration program. |
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COURAGE UNDER FIRE
BOOK REVIEW by John Hunter Farrell: Daniel Keighran VC's superb, honest biography about growing up hard in the bush before finding himself in Australia's modern wars. Highly recommended |
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RAAF 'RE-BASELINE' TRITON BUY
AUSTRALIA: The Dept of Defence is renegotiating the Project Air 7000/1B MQ-4C Triton acquisition agreement in response to concerns arising from the US Navy budget freeze on the platform. |
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CAMPBELL BACK FLIPS ON SOTG AFGHAN MUC
AUSTRALIA: The Chief of Army appears to be backflipping on the revocation of the SOTG Meritorious Unit Citation in the wake of ScoMo's intervention, or is he still just dodging any responsibility? |
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9RAA TO OPERATE HUNTSMAN SPH
AUSTRALIA: Army will reinstate 9RAA as a new regular Royal Australian Artillery regiment to operate the next gen Hanwha AS9 Huntsman Self Propelled Artillery. |
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3RD RAN CAPE CLASS PB BUILD
HENDERSON WA: Work has commenced on the third of six Evolved Cape class patrol boats for the RAN at Austral's WA shipyard. |
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ARMY MOVES AGAINST 13 EX SOTG
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Army has issued administrative action notices to 13 serving members connected to allegations published in the IG ADF Afghanistan Inquiry Report. |
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ARUNTA RETURNS FROM NORTH KOREA OPS
ROCKINGHAM WA: HMAS Arunta has returned home to Fleet Base West after conducting monitoring of North Korean attempts to avoid UN trade sanctions . |
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NEW COMMANDO ELEMENT FOR QLD
AUSTRALIA: Special Operations Command Australia will raise a new Commando detachment in Queensland under the upcoming Army reorg and expansion. |
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PLANNED MISSILE 'FIRES' BRIGADE
AUSTRALIA: Army will concentrate the advanced long range missile systems about to enter service under Land 19/7B, Land 8113 and Sea 4100/2 in a new brigade structure. |
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MASSIVE ARMY ORBAT EVOLUTION PLANNED
AUSTRALIA: Army has plans for a massive OrBat reorganisation that involves new brigades and re-raising RARs as well as acquiring staggering new capabilities that dwarf the current combat capacity. |
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HASTIE RESPONDS TO IGADF REPORT
AUSTRALIA: Federal Member of Parliament and SOTG Afghanistan veteran Andrew Hastie weighs in on the IGADF Afghanistan Report. |
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2ND C-130J HERC SATCOM UPGRADE
RICHMOND NSW: The RAAF has upgraded a second C-130J-30 Hercules with high bandwidth inflight satellite communications. |
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KILCULLEN RESPONDS TO IGADF ACCUSATIONS
AUSTRALIA: Australia's leading counter insurgency expert David Kilcullen gives context to the IGADF Afghanistan Report disclosures and accusations. |
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WAR CRIMES REPORT ABSOLVES BRASS
CANBERRA: The IGADF Afghanistan Report has absolved all officers of criminal liability with all recommendations for criminal investigation confined specifically to the footsloggers. |
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IGADF WAR CRIMES REPORT RELEASE
CANBERRA: The Chief of Defence Force has released a redacted form of the IGADF report on SOTG Afghanistan Operations with many allegations. |
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BOXER & HAWKEI BEACH LANDINGS
COWLEY BEACH FNQ: Pictorial - Army's new Boxer CRV and operational Hawkei PMV-L have been inserted over the beach for the first time during Ex Sea Wader. |
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ARUNTA ENDS NORTH KOREA MONITORING OP
JAPAN: HMAS Arunta has completed her UNSCR North Korea sanctions monitoring operations in the DPRK's maritime approaches. |
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ODIN FIRE CONTROL FOR HUNTSMAN SPH
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Army's future AS9 Huntsman SPH will feature a very advanced Norwegian digital Fire Control System that will interface with Army's digital command and control. |
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ADF LINKS WITH JAPAN TO EXPAND
TOKYO: Australia and Japan will sign a reciprocal military access agreement to allow both nations better access to each other's military bases. |
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RAAF LIKELY TO REACH F-35 IOC NUMBERS
WILLIAMTOWN NSW: The two delayed F-35A Lightnings will fly into RAAF Williamtown today and the 32nd RAAF F-35A has been photographed in flight in Texas. Pic Jacob Metzger |
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ELEVEN BATS
BOOK REVIEW: Harry Moffitt's autobiographical history of his 11 operational deployments with the SASR and the personal price he paid for his service to Australia reviewed by John Hunter Farrell. |
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NINE MORE LIGHTNINGS
WILLIAMTOWN NSW: The RAAF has seven more F-35A Lightnings at RAAF Williamtown with two more inbound as the Aussie Joint Strike Fighter age gains momentum. Pic Emil Cooper |
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LAND 400/3 KF41 LYNX IFV REVEALED
BRISBANE: Rheinmetall has revealed its KF41 Lynx Infantry Fighting Vehicle trials prototype in Aussie Land 400/3 configuration for the first time. |
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RAN RAPID GEOSPATIAL SURVEY CAPABILITY
CORAL SEA: The RAN has successfully trialled its new Polaris Deployable Geospatial Survey craft from an Amphibious Assault Ship during testing off Townsville. |
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CAMPBELL TO TAKE AFGHAN VETS MEDALS
CANBERRA: ADF boss Gen Angus Campbell is preparing to sack Aussie Special Operations Afghan veterans accused in the IGADF inquiry and strip them of their decorations for valour prior to any charges being laid or soldiers tried and proven guilty. |
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GOODBYE FIVE EYES
EDITORIAL: The Australian Army's determined effort to criminalise itself has serious implications for broader national security and our Five Eyes alliance. |
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RAN RETURNS TO EX MALABAR
MALABAR COAST: Pictorial: HMAS Ballarat is the first RAN warship to participate in Ex Malabar for 13 years. |
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ARMY BUYS LATEST JAVELIN MISSILES
USA: The US Govt has approved an Australian order of a significant quantity of the latest FGM-148E Javelin missile to restock depleted Australian Army warstores. |
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MIDDLE EAST MISSION REDUCTIONS
AFGHAN & IRAQ: The Australian military withdrawal from the Middle East is gaining momentum with troops and gear heading home and numbers going dramatically down. |
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RAN FIRES APKWS2
HMAS ALBATROSS: The RAN has launched the new laser guided APKWS2 rockets from an 816 Sqn MH-60R Romeo helicopter during recent training. |
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HMAS ARUNTA JOINS DPRK SANCTIONS OPS
JAPAN: The RAN's Anzac class frigate HMAS Arunta is in Japan and about to start sanctions monitoring ops against North Korea's evolved sanctions violation activities. |
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RAAF OPS FROM AL DHAFRA END
UNITED ARAB EMIRATES: The RAAF's contingent at Al Dhafra in the UAE has returned home marking the end of the Aussie six year air combat campaign against Islamic State . |
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TAG-EAST SHIP UNDERWAY RECOVERY EX
SYDNEY HARBOUR: Slideshow. Sensational imagery of a TAG-East Ship Underway Recovery operation conducted in Sydney Harbour during the latest Commando HR/CT Ex. |
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CLASSIC HORNET FOR AWM
CANBERRA: A multi combat tour veteran RAAF F/A-18HUG Hornet has been transferred to the Australian War Memorial to honour the type's service into perpetuity. |
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SINGAPORE TRAINING RECOMMENCES
AUSTRALIA: Small footprint Singaporean training has recommenced with Chinooks working with the RAN and RSAF fighters flying out of Darwin. |
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RAN COMPLETES MIDDLE EAST MISSION
CANBERRA: Slideshow. The RAN has announced that it has concluded Middle East Region maritime security operations after 30 years and more than 60 warship rotations. |
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LOYAL WINGMAN TAXI TRIAL VIDEO
QUEENSLAND: Video. Boeing has released video of the BATS Loyal Wingman prototype conducting its first independent taxing trials. |
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USMC MRF-D20 HEADING HOME
NORTHERN TERRITORY: The pandemic affected Marine Rotational Force - Darwin 2020 is heading home after completing an abbreviated seasonal deployment to the Top End. |
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ARUNTA'S SOUTH CHINA SEA FONOP
SOUTH CHINA SEA: Slideshow. HMAS Arunta joined US Navy and Japanese warships for two days of naval training activity in Chinese claimed waters off Malaysia. |
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KC-30A TO P-8A AAR
QUEENSLAND: The RAAF has successfully completed Air to Air Refuelling trials between KC-30A MRTTs and P-8A Poseidons off the Qld coast. |
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KORD AWARDED TECH DEVELOPMENT FUNDS
CANBERRA: Aussie Kord Defence has won funds to develop its tech that enables a soldier to shuttle through comms nets and weapon accessory modes via a wireless pistol grip mounted unit. |
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AUSSIE LIGHTNING GRAND CANYON RUN
ARIZONA: Slideshow. Spectacular aerial images of Aussie F-35As flying over American icons in honour of the final flight of the combined USAF/RAAF 61st Fighter Squadron. |
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RNZAF DPRK SANCTIONS OPS
NEW ZEALAND: An RNZAF P-3K2 Orion will return to Japan to conduct surveillance missions against North Korean sanctions evasion at sea. |
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NEXT GEN SUB RFI REQUESTS
OSBORNE SA: The first Local Manufacturing Package RFI for the future Attack class submarines has been released as early work on the boats shifts from France to Adelaide. |
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FRENCH TTH SPEC OPS UPGRADE
FRANCE: Airbus Helicopters has revealed its Spec Ops upgrade for the NH-90 TTH that it hopes to sell to Australia to improve our MRH90s. |
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KF41 LYNX DELIVERED TO AUSTRALIA
AUSTRALIA: The first Australianised Rheinmetall KF41 Lynx AFV prototype has been airlifted into Australia ahead of the Land 400 Phase 3 trials. Pics and analysis. |
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ADF ENDS ANAOA MISSION
AFGHANISTAN: Australian operations at the Afghan National Army Officer Academy at Qargha outside Kabul have ended after seven years of deployments. |
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KC-30A MRTT UPGRADE
SPAIN: Airbus Military has been contracted with the next tranche of KC-30A digital upgrades to allow the aircraft to fully network with RAAF's latest C4I and with 5th gen aircraft. |
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RAAF LUKE AFB F-35A OPCON ENDS
ARIZONA USA: The RAAF's operational conversion element at Luke AFB in Arizona flew its final mission on Friday ending five years of US based Lightning II OpCon. |
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DFHSL BOXER CRV REVEAL VIDEO
QUEENSLAND: Video. Rheinmetall has released a video of the first turreted DFHSL Boxer CRV Block 1 assembled in Queensland which will enter service in 2021. |
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MOSUL
BOOK REVIEW: Ben McKelvey's excellent study into Australia's role in the apocalyptic battle to liberate the ancient city of Mosul from the barbaric Islamic State. |
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TIGER LOBBY TRIES TO STOP NEW GUNSHIP
AUSTRALIA: A bizarre media campaign to halt the replacement of the Army's ultra expensive and barely operational Tiger ARH is gaining traction just as an announcement of new gunships is imminent. |
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IRST21 EMPLOYS ON COMBAT OPS
MIDDLE EAST REGION: The RAAF's near future IRST21 stealth tracker sensor for its F/A-18Fs has been flown in combat for the first time by the US Navy. |
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HMAS HOBART REGIONAL PRESENCE VIDEO
PACIFIC: Video: HMAS Hobart's activities during the Regional Presence Deployment including RIMPAC missile launches and Naval Gun Support. |
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ARMY ABRAMS OPTIONS
AUSTRALIA: With less than 11 months to go before a final decision, Army has reduced its M1A1 Abrams replacement options to two possibilities. |
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ARMY SEEKS LEASED HELICOPTERS
TOWNSVILLE: Reports have emerged indicating the Australian Army is seeking to lease additional helicopters to augment capacity at 5th Aviation Regiment. |
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NUSHIP SUPPLY DELIVERED
FLEET BASE WEST: The first of the RAN's two new Supply class AORs is safely berthed at HMAS Stirling in Western Australia after her voyage from Spain. |
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BOXER CRV OPERATIONAL CONVERSION
WIDE BAY QLD: Photostory. Boxer Combat Reconnaissance Vehicle operational conversion is well underway in Qld as the acquisition gains momentum. |
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WARRAMUNGA COMPLETES AMCAP DRYDOCK
HENDERSON WA: HMAS Warramunga is back in the water after completing the dry dock phase of her AMCAP upgrade at Henderson WA. |
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VIRUS DELAYS LAND 400 TRIALS
AUSTRALIA: The global pandemic has caused an unavoidable delay to the start of the Land 400 Phase 3 AFV field trials between the German KF41 Lynx and Korean AS21 Redback. |
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RAN DELIBERATELY DOWNGRADING OPV
CANBERRA: The RAN has deliberately downgraded the Arafura class OPVs under construction to make them too weak to land all inservice and planned ADF helicopters. |
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BUSHMASTER & HAWKEI RWS CONTRACT
CANBERRA: The Government has finalised the contract to equip Army's Bushmaster and Hawkei PMVs with the advanced Aussie made R400S Mk2 HD Remote Weapon Station. |
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FCS13 DFSW SIGHT TRIALS
SINGLETON: The Army is conducting live fire trials of the advanced FCS13 sighting system for Direct Fire Support Weapons. |
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LORD HOWE UXO CLEARANCE
LORD HOWE IS: The RAN's Clearance Divers have completed a clearance of unexploded ordnance from protected reefs around Lord Howe Island. |
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OP ARGOS P-8A DEPLOYMENT
JAPAN: The RAAF is deploying another P-8A to conduct surveillance operations against North Korean sanctions avoidance operations. |
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RAN MK 54 TORPEDO LAUNCH EX
JERVIS BAY: Slideshow- Brilliant photographic sequence of an RAN MH-60R deploying a Mk 54 Lightweight Hybrid Torpedo off Jervis Bay. |
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HUNTER FRIGATE BUILD ISSUES
AUSTRALIA: The RAN's next generation Hunter frigate program has been affected by virus restrictions that have delayed important work and now threatened UK ship reductions could leave the RAN a near orphan FFG operator. |
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51FNQR NEXT GEN REGIONAL SUPPORT CRAFT
AUSTRALIA: The new Regional Support Craft being built for 51FNQR will substantially improve Army's Torres Strait rough water mobility and response. |
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RAAF ACCEPTS 30TH LIGHTNING II
USA: The RAAF has accepted its 30th F-35A Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter at its US acceptance area in Arizona USA. |
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USAF C-17 BOMBER TRIALS
USA: The USAF has successfully used C-17As to drop palletised JDAM Precision Guided Munitions in trials that have major relevance to the RAAF. |
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MRF-D20 A SUCCESS AMIDST EXPANDING ALLIANCE
NORTHERN TERRITORY: Marine Rotational Force - Darwin is successfully completing its pandemic abbreviated deployment to Darwin as Australian/USA military cooperation expands across the board. |
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RAN IN SOUTH CHINA SEA
SOUTH CHINA SEA: The RAN and Japanese JMSDF are conducting bilateral naval operations in international waters claimed by China. |
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RAN MCM DRONE AUTONOMY RESEARCH
AUSTRALIA: The RAN has funded the development of autonomous Mine Countermeasure Unmanned Underwater Vehicle launch and recovery to allow true 'unmanned' mine clearance operations. |
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GA-ASI REVEALS MQ-9 REPLACEMENT
USA: General Atomics has revealed its concept of a stealthy MQ-9A Reaper replacement which has implications for the RAAF's plans to buy the old school MQ-9B SkyGuardian. |
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LAND 400 AFV PRICE MYSTERY
HUNGARY: Why has Army estimated it will cost taxpayers three to four times what Hungary paid for the Lynx AFV with the same Australian made turret. |
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LOYAL WINGMAN ENGINE RUN VIDEO
QUEENSLAND: Video. Boeing has released video of the BATS Loyal Wingman prototype conducting its first ground engine testing. |
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EX KOOLENDONG 2020
MT BUNDEY NT: Exercise Koolendong, the major field exercise between Marine Rotational Force - Darwin and the ADF has been completed. |
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RAN IN MULTINATIONAL FLEET
PHILIPPINE SEA: The RAN's HMAS Stuart and Arunta are part of a four-nation combined show of force heading for Guam. |
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RSAF RETURNING TO NT
NORTHERN TERRITORY: The Republic of Singapore Air Force is returning to the NT to conduct a major air exercise after completing quarantine. |
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'COGNITIVE' UAS FLIGHT TRIALS
QUEENSLAND: Boeing's Phantom Works International has demonstrated Aussie developed 'cognitive' AI driven UAS machine learning and tactical decision making in flight trials. |
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RAAF ENDS ISLAMIC STATE MISSIONS
IRAQ SYRIA: RAAF E-7A Wedgetails and KC-30A MRTTs have flown their last CJTF-OIR missions against Islamic State remnants. |
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HMNZS TE KAHA SEA TRIALS
CANADA: The new look HMNZS Te Kaha has commenced post upgrade sea trials off Victoria in Canada after completing the Frigate Systems Upgrade work. |
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LYNX LANCE 2 TECH DETAILS
GERMANY: The Lance 2 turret on the soon to arrive in Australia Lynx AFV prototypes are more advanced than the Lance 1 turrets seen on the Boxer CRV. |
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CRV EATS EXPENSIVE AMMO
AUSTRALIA: Army's next gen Boxer CRV is limited to expensive 30mm munitions due to German Army failure to fully certify more ammunition types. |
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3 SQN F-35 IIS ACTIVITY
WILLIAMTOWN: The RAAF's 3 Squadron is conducting high tempo operations aiming towards IOC certification scheduled for December. |
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AS9 HUNTSMAN 155 SPH RFT
CANBERRA: Defence has invited Hanwha Defence Australia only to tender its AS9 Huntsman for Project Land 8116 Mobile Protected Fires. |
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HAWKEI ENTERS FULL RATE PRODUCTION
BALLARAT: The Australian Hawkei Protected Mobility Vehicle - Light has been approved for full rate production of the large fleet. |
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TURRETED AS21 REDBACK EMERGES
ISRAEL: An Elbit Systems video has revealed an operational Hanwha AS21 Redback with an almost complete T2000 turret integrated ahead of the Australian Army trials. |
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RAN LEADS RIMPAC SINKEX
HAWAII: Slideshow - The Royal Australian Navy has played a central role in RIMPAC 2020's culminating live missile fire ship sinking exercise. |
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NUSHIP SUPPLY INBOUND
SPAIN: The RAN's first new Auxiliary Oiler Replenishment Nuship Supply is taking on final provisions for her maiden voyage ahead of sailing for Australia. |
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REMOTE DIGITAL MAINTENANCE SUPPORT
AMBERLEY: The RAAF has introduced high tech systems that allow US experts unable to travel due to the Pandemic to advise C-17A work conducted in Australia. |
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DEFENCE FUNDS LOCAL ARMED COMBAT BOTS
BRISBANE: Aussie firms have developed an ultra advanced armed UGCV to support forward troops that uses smart AI to autonomously navigate the battlefield, and detect and destroy hostile forces. |
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HMAS SYDNEY COOPERATIVE ENGAGEMENT TRIALS
SYDNEY: HMAS Sydney has successfully demonstrated systems fusion using her advanced Cooperative Engagement Capability with sister ship HMAS Brisbane. |
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ARUNTA FIRES ESSM AT RIMPAC
HAWAII: HMAS Arunta has fired an ESSM using her new CEAFAR2-L radar during a combined air and missile defence training serial at RIMPAC 2020. |
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TIMOR 2000: ANZAC DRY SEASON VICTORY
TIMOR: FEATURE & PHOTO ESSAY We remember the 20th anniversary of the 2000 Timor Dry Season Offensive where the 6RAR and 2/1RNZIR Battle Groups eliminated the Indonesian sponsored insurgency along the Timor/Indonesia border. By John Hunter Farrell |
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F-35A GBU DROP VIDEO
EVANS HEAD: Video of 2 OCU F-35A Lightnings deploying inert GBU-12 Paveway IIs onto Evans Head Air Weapons Range. |
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TAJI HANDED BACK TO IRAQ
IRAQ: CJTF-OIR has handed all Coalition Taji Military Complex facilities back to the Iraqi Army and redeployed from the base. |
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AI SMASHED ACE PILOT IN SIM TRIALS
USA: Artificial Intelligence program has smashed a top gun USAF fighter pilot in every dogfight in the latest DARPA simulator based machine learning trials. |
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RAAF FLYING BRIT MQ-9 COMBAT OPS
IRAQ: RAAF exchange officers are conducting lethal combat missions against Islamic State remnants 'flying' British MQ-9A Reapers. |
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RIMPAC 2020 ACTIVITY
HAWAII: Slideshow of the early multinational naval training activities being conducted off Hawaii for RIMPAC 20. |
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3 BRIGADE WORKING UP
TOWNSVILLE: The 3rd Brigade is training hard towards Ready Brigade certification after their normal readying exercise program was disrupted by the pandemic. |
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THE COMMANDO WAY
BOOK REVIEW: Bram Connolly's personal improvement roadmap is also a great soldier's story from Somalia, Timor, TAG and Afghanistan. |
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RAN AEGIS BASELINE 9 UPGRADE
AUSTRALIA: The RAN's Hobart class DDGs will soon commence their upgrade to the latest Aegis Baseline 9 with missile defence and true fused sea/air/land battlespace capability. |
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RAN & RNZN IN HAWAII FOR RIMPAC
HAWAII: The Australian and New Zealand contingents have commenced RIMPAC 2020 activities in an exercise reduced due to Pandemic restrictions. |
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ARMY SEEKS EXCALIBUR BLOCK III
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Army is seeking to upgrade its inservice 2007 vintage 155mm M892 Excalibur with Excalibur Block III 'smart and discriminating' APGMs. |
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RAN TO REPLACE MRH-90
AUSTRALIA: The RAN will replace the MRH-90 TTH helicopter with a new type and transfer its share of the fleet back to the Army. |
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OUR PACIFIC APOCALYPSE 1941-45
EDITORIAL: August 15 is the 75th anniversary of Japan's surrender in 1945 and a good time to remember the sacrifice and loss suffered to ensure our national survival against a depraved and energetic enemy.. |
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ARMY COMBAT RESCUE OPERATOR
BRISBANE: Army has introduced a Combat Rescue Operator specialist employment category to conduct personnel rescue from vehicles, aircraft and dangerous locations. |
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2RAR AMPHIB VIDEO
PACIFIC: Video of the 2RAR (Amphib) Pre Landing Team at work aboard HMAS Canberra during the Regional Presence Deployment. |
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NEXT GEN JAMMER - MID BAND FIRST FLIGHT
USA: The RAAF's expanded Next Generation Jammer - Mid Band took a step closer with the first flight of a prototype system on a Growler in the USA only two days after new contracts were signed. |
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ARMY RIVERINE PATROL CRAFT
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Army will introduce a Riverine Patrol Craft capability as part of its pivot to Archipelagic Operations doctrines to augment its ability to operate effectively in the tropics. |
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RETROSPECTIVE VC FOR TEDDY SHEEAN
AUSTRALIA: The Prime Minister has agreed to retrospectively award a Victoria Cross to RAN sailor Teddy Sheean KIA for his extraordinary valour and sacrifice for his mates in 1942. |
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RAAF ACQUIRES AN/ALQ-249 NGJ-LOW BAND
USA: Australia has injected funds into the development of the AN/ALQ-249 Next Generation Jammer program which will exponentially expand our Electronic Attack capability. |
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MARINE MRF-D 20 AT FULL STRENGTH
NORTHERN TERRITORY: The USMC's Marine Rotational Force - Darwin 2020 is complete and training after the final Marines were released from pandemic quarantine. |
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TAG CQB ROBOT TRIALS
AUSTRALIA: Special Operations Command - Australia has trialled four legged combat support robots in Close Quarter Battle and Special Recovery training scenarios. |
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ARMY TO EXPAND AUTONOMOUS ARMOUR FLEET
AUSTRALIA: The Army will expand its autonomous armoured vehicle fleet 400 percent to expedite unmanned combat trials and has funded more robotic combat support research. |
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SUBMARINE TARGET SIMULATOR FOR RAN
AUSTRALIA: The RAN is acquiring an advanced underwater target system that accurately simulates hostile submarines and torpedoes producing ultra realistic training. |
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NUSHIP SUPPLY COMMENCES SEA TRIALS
SPAIN: The RAN's next gen Auxiliary Oiler Replenishment nuship Supply has commenced sea trials in Spain ahead of sailing to Australia. |
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RQ-7B BORDER PROTECTION OPS
CAPE YORK: Army RQ-7B TUAVs have been deployed to Torres Strait to protect Australia's northern approaches during the pandemic emergency. |
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BUSHMASTER COMMON CONFIGURATION UPGRADE
AUSTRALIA: The entire Australian Army Bushmaster PMV fleet will be progressively rebaselined to a new 'Common Configuration' which incorporates all the latest upgrades. |
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CANBERRA RETURNING TO AUSTRALIA
PACIFIC OCEAN: After repeated ministerial and departmental statements that HMAS Canberra was RIMPAC bound, the huge Amphibious Assault Ship is returning home. |
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FIRST 75 SQUADRON F-35A
TEXAS USA: The first RAAF F-35A Lightning featuring the tail art of the elite NT based 75 Squadron has flown for the first time. Pic by Texasafterburner. |
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NZ ROLLS OUT NEW MULTICAM
NEW ZEALAND: The New Zealand Army is rolling out its new multicam uniform to its soldiers in volume after successful user trials and positive feedback. |
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THE LAST NAVIGATOR
BOOK REVIEW: The story of an RAAF navigator's multi tour airwar with Bomber Command against Nazi Germany flying Wellingtons and Lancasters. |
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AL DHAFRA AL UDIED MISSILE ALERT
MIDDLE EAST REGION: RAAF teams at Al Dhafra and Al Udied in the Arabian Gulf were subject to an Iranian missile provocation on July 28. |
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BALLARAT ESSM LAUNCH VIDEO
TASMAN SEA: Video of HMAS Ballarat mission readiness work ups including RIM-162B Evolved Sea Sparrow Missile launching from Mk41 VLS. |
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RAAF COMBAT CONTROLLER PARACHUTE EX
AUSTRALIA: Photo story - RAAF 4 Squadron Combat Controllers maintain their parachute insertion capability currency during jumps over Wagga Wagga. |
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HMNZS AOTEAROA COMMISSIONED
NEW ZEALAND: The RNZN's new Polar class Auxiliary Oiler Replenishment HMNZS Aotearoa has been commissioned into service in Auckland. |
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ANZAC FFH SONAR UPGRADE
AUSTRALIA: The RAN's anti submarine and anti torpedo capability has been vastly improved with a new Aussie designed sonar processing unit. |
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1ST AS21 REDBACK PROTOTYPE REVEALED
SOUTH KOREA: Hanwha Defence has revealed its first two AS21 Redback Armoured Fighting Vehicle prototypes for the Australian Army's Project Land 400 Phase 3. |
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RAN SOUTH CHINA SEA FONOP
SOUTH CHINA SEA: Australia quietly conducted a large warship Freedom of Navigation operation (FONOP) in the South China Sea in open defiance of Chinese threats just prior to our UN rejection of the Chinese annexation. |
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BIG RAAF FORCE IN GUAM
GUAM: The RAAF has deployed a large expeditionary combat force to Guam as part of the ADF's Regional Presence Deployment to recommence integrated training with the US. |
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1RAR FPE 14 AFGHANISTAN BOUND
TOWNSVILLE: Force Protection Element 14 is about to rotate into Afghanistan to replace 5RAR who are completing their six month tour. |
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RAAF SOUTH CHINA SEA EW OPS
SINGAPORE: RAAF Electronic Warfare aircraft have been photographed flying out of Singapore on long daily ops as China ramps up South China Sea seizure. Pic by Eric Kuan |
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TIGER EMBARKED FOR RIMPAC
PACIFIC OCEAN: 1 Avn Regt Tigers are embarked with the RAN surface action group bound for Hawaii and Exercise RIMPAC 2020. |
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US ARMY M1A2C OPERATIONAL
AUSTRALIA: The US Army's roll out of the next gen M1A2C Abrams paves the way for Australia's planned acquisition of the type for our Armoured Cavalry Regiments. |
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TRILATERAL SHOW OF FORCE
PHILIPPINE SEA: An RAN expeditionary surface group has concentrated with the Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group and a Japanese destroyer in a show of force in western Pacific waters. |
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M-777A2 ARTY REPAIRS
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Army's M-777A2 required important repairs after issues with the system were identified by the US and Canadian Armies. |
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INDONESIA SEEKS EUROFIGHTERS
INDONESIA: Indonesia has put in a formal offer for Austria's corruption tainted Eurofighter Typhoon fleet which is set to be retired due to internal politics. |
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VTOL MTUAS AT SEA FLIGHT TRIALS
AUSTRALIA: The RAN is conducting VTOL Maritime Tactical Unmanned Aerial System flight trials off an Anzac frigate at sea off NSW. |
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LOYAL WINGMAN UCAS ACQUISITION
AUSTRALIA: The 2020 Force Structure Plan reveals that the Aussie Loyal Wingman UCAV concept has morphed from advanced research project to hard capability requirement with a huge budget. |
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NEW SNIPER RIFLES, PISTOLS, SHOTTIES, SMGs & COMPACT ARs
AUSTRALIA: The ADF has kicked off its Small Arms Replacement program with new Sniper Rifles, pistols, shotties, SMGs and Compact SDW/ARs being acquired first. |
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CLASSIFIED 81mm PGM PROGRAM
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Army is partnering the US military in a classified program to develop an ultra lethal precision 81mm mortar round. |
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AOR SUPPLY DUE IN SEPTEMBER
SPAIN: Nuship Supply, the first of two new AORs, will be delivered to Australia in September after being delayed by pandemic shutdowns at Navantia in Spain. |
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10 SQN TO 'FLY' MQ-4C
AUSTRALIA: A recently released RAAF document has ended speculation over which unit will operate the new MQ-4C BAMS fleet. |
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8500 ADDITIONAL EF-88 RIFLES
AUSTRALIA: The Government has funded the manufacture of 8500 additional EF-88s to complete re equipping the Army Reserve 2nd Division. |
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NEW LARGE BUSH FOLDER
GEAR: Halfbreed Blades have followed up the success of their Large Bush Knife with a folding counterpart, the LBF-01. |
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ARMY BUYS MORE RQ-12A SUAS
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Army has signed up for a second tranche of improved RQ-12A Wasp AE SUAS drones for its combat manoeuvre units. |
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5TH ANZAC ENTERS AMCAP UPGRADE
HENDERSON WA: The fifth of the RAN's eight Anzac class frigates is being prepared for its Anzac Midlife Capability Assurance Program upgrade in WA. |
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NZ ARMY ACCEPTS SIX MRZR
NEW ZEALAND: The New Zealand Army has received its first tranche of Polaris MRZR military All Terrain Vehicles for its combat manoeuvre elements. |
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ADF SEEKS 'SMART' AT MINES
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Army is seeking networked wireless smart Anti Tank 'mine' dispensors that use onboard sensor arrays that can identify hostile armour from friendlies and civilians and are fired by a soldier in a remote location after ID of the target. |
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NZ ARMY ORDERS BUSHMASTER PMV FLEET
NEW ZEALAND: The NZ Government has approved the purchase of a decent sized fleet of late model Australian made Bushmaster PMV-Ms to enter service in two years. |
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MAJOR ACTIVE PROTECTION SYSTEM ROLL OUT
AUSTRALIA: The ADF will equip all combat and combat support armour and protected trucks and even landing craft with advanced 'hard kill' Active Protection Systems that shoot down missiles, rockets and shells. |
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INDONESIAN MV-22 TILTROTOR BUY
INDONESIA: The US State Department has approved an Indonesian request for MV-22 Osprey tiltrotor aircraft for the TNI - Angkatan Darat. |
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ADDITIONAL AIR COMBAT CAPABILITY
AUSTRALIA: The 2020 Force Structure Plan has revealed that the Additional Air Combat Capability budget is in train with a healthy budget. Pic Mathieu Macey |
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RAAF AGM-158C POTENTIAL
AUSTRALIA: The RAAF's next generation AGM-158C LRASM is extremely stealthy, sneaky, smart and dangerous and will exponentially improve Australia's sea denial capacity. |
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CJTF-OIR IRAQ TRANSITIONS TO ADVISORY OPS
IRAQ: CJTF-Op Inherent Resolve in Iraq has officially transitioned to Military Advisory ops in the wake of the end of the Anzac Build Partner Capacity mission at Taji in June. |
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2RAR (AMPHIB) IIS M224A1
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Army is introducing the M224A1 to 2RAR (Amphib), the first time the system has been issued outside Special Operations. |
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THEATRE STRIKE FOR ARMY
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Army is involved in the development of the US Army's next generation PrSM and will soon acquire its own long range hitting power. |
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LARGEST EVER ADF REMOTE WEAPONS STATION BUY
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Army has just signed its largest ever Remote Weapons Station contract with Aussie systems leader Electro Optical Systems. |
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RAA SET TO DOUBLE
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Army's Joint Fires are set to exponentially expand with two regts of self propelled guns and the M-777A2s uprated to ultra long range or replaced with next gen arty systems alone. |
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A CALL TO ARMS
EDITORIAL: The surprise release of the 2020 Defence Strategic Update signals a new era of robust defence of our interests, a reinvigorated ADF and an Australia prepared to fight for its survival. Analysis by John Hunter Farrell |
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BELGIUM REDUCES TTH OPS
BELGIUM: Another military user is reducing its exposure to the NH/MRH-90 Tactical Transport Helicopter - with future ramifications for the ADF and NZDF. |
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WARRAMUNGA REMASTED UNDER AMCAP
HENDERSON WA: HMAS Warramunga's new Sea 1448 Radar Mast has been integrated by BAE Systems Australia within the AMCAP upgrade process. |
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LOCAL F-35A FMSim UPGRADE
WILLIAMTOWN NSW: The RAAF and Lockheed Martin Australia have conducted the first ever F-35 Full Mission Simulator upgrade using local technicians. |
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AOTEAROA ARRIVES IN NZ
NEW ZEALAND: The Royal New Zealand Navy's new Polar class Auxiliary Oiler Replenishment Aotearoa has arrived at home in Auckland. |
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RAA INTRODUCES AUTOMATED BARREL CLEANING
AUSTRALIA: The Royal Australian Artillery has introduced a labour saving automated barrel cleaning system for the 155mm M-777A2 LTH. |
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COMBAT BRIGADE's AT WORK
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Army's three Multirole Combat Brigades have spent the month rebuilding capacity as pandemic mitigation measures have been relaxed. |
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F-35A VULNERABILITY TO LIGHTNING ISSUE
USA: The F-35 Joint Program Office has released an advisory to limit F-35A flying in certain weather conditions which will affect the RAAF fleet. |
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NEXT GEN JAMMER - LOW BAND DEVELOPMENT
USA: The RAAF's eagerly anticipated Next Generation Jammer suite for the EA-18G Growler continues to progress towards operational release with both low and mid band pods in trials. |
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HMNZS MANAWANUI TO RIMPAC 20
NEW ZEALAND: The New Zealand Defence Force will centre its RIMPAC 2020 contribution on the Diving Support Ship HMNZS Manawanui. |
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RAN MK 15 BLOCK 1B/2 CIWS OICAUSTRALIA: The Navy's latest gen Mk 15 Block 1B Baseline 2 Close In Weapons System has achieved Initial Operating Capabililty. |
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TOOWOOMBA COMPLETES MER OPS
MIDDLE EAST: HMAS Toowoomba is returning to Australia after completing a six month deployment conducting Maritime Security Ops in the Middle East Region. |
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3RD RAAF TRITON LOCKED INAUSTRALIA: The Dept of Defence has confirmed the acquisition of a third MQ-4C Triton UAS, originally revealed in US Government disclosures in April. |
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THE DRAGONS AND THE SNAKES
BOOK REVIEW: Former Australian Army major David Kilcullen's erudite analysis of new multi dimension hostilities and how they are used against the Western democracies. |
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RAN FLEET AT SEA
AUSTRALIA: The RAN has returned to sea in force, recommencing warfighting training as pandemic mitigation restrictions ease. |
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MORE SUB BUILD SCHEDULE DELAYSAUSTRALIA: The design of the RAN's next gen Attack class submarines is running late with another key component incomplete. |
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MORE AUSSIE BUSHMASTERS FOR JAMAICAJAMAICA: The Jamaica Defence Force has put in another order for Australian Bushmaster Protected Mobility Vehicle - Mediums. Pic Loop |
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ADF MICROSAT LAUNCHED IN NZNEW ZEALAND: An RAAF/UNSW developed research micro satellite was launched into space by Rocket Labs from New Zealand. |
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ONLY TWO ADDITIONAL KC-30A MRTTsAUSTRALIA: The Government is looking at two not three additional KC-30A MRTT tankers to expand its inflight refuelling capacity. |
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GBU-53/B SMB2 PROBLEMSUSA: Problems with the GBU-53/B Small Diameter Bomb Increment II could impact the RAAF's transition to the F-35A Lightning II. |
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3 SQUADRON APPROACHING FULL STRENGTH
WILLIAMTOWN NSW: The RAAF's first F-35A Lightning II squadron is approaching a full complement of jets and working towards operational status in December. Pic by Stephen Baldwin |
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C-130J BASED REMOTE UAS RECONNAISSANCE
EDINBURGH: The RAAF has successfully trialled remote operation and video upload from a UAS to an airborne C-130J using SATCOMM. |
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SOTG HELMAND VIDEO 2012
AFGHANISTAN: Video of SOTG Commando Nexus counter narcotics op extraction in late August 2012. Helmet cam from Commando Merv McDonald KIA. |
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ARMY PROGRESSIVELY RESUMING TRAINING
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Army is progressively resuming its training program as pandemic mitigation restrictions are eased in northern and western states. |
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RFI FOR RAAF HAWK REPLACEMENTS
AUSTRALIA: The RAAF has commenced the search for a next generation Lead In Fighter Trainer more suitable for training modern combat aircrew. |
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NZ CONTRACTS FIVE C-130J-30 HERCS
NEW ZEALAND: The RNZAF will get five C-130J-30 Hercs fitted with the most advanced self defence, satellite communications and surveillance systems in operations globally. |
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GERMANS ARE ADOPTING AUSSIE BOXER GUNCAR
GERMANY: The German Deutsches Heer is participating in the development of the final spec turreted Australian Boxer CRV and will also introduce the type into service. |
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TASK GROUP TAJI MISSION COMPLETE
IRAQ: The combined Anzac Task Group Taji has completed its five year/ten rotation Build Partner Capacity mission in Iraq. |
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NEXT GENERATION JAMMER ISSUES
USA: The US Government Accountability Office has identified some technical issues with the Next Generation Jammer under development for the US Navy and the RAAF. |
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F/A-18F OPERATIONAL CONVERSION AT AMBERLEY
AMBERLEY: The RAAF's trial of F/A-18F Super Hornet operational conversion training at RAAF Amberley is progressing smoothly. |
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MARINE ROTATIONAL FORCE - DARWIN ARRIVE
DARWIN: The first contingent of Marine Rotation Force - Darwin 2020 has flown into the Northern Territory and commenced a 14 day quarantine period. |
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RAAF AIRMEN FLYING OIF STRIKE OPS
SYRIA/IRAQ: RAAF combat aircrew are still directly fighting Islamic State, only now they fight from the cockpits of US fighterbombers. |
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MORE BLUEFIRE EF88 SIMULATORS
AUSTRALIA: The ADF has contracted Meggitt Training Systems for more digital BlueFire EF88 simulated weapons for its high resolution WTSS combat shooting training simulators. |
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SPEC OPS LIGHT HELO PROGRAM
AUSTRALIA: Special Operations Command Australia's expedited light assault helo acquisition program will soon be shortlisted for tenders. |
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'CLEAVER' PALLETISED PRECISION STRIKE
USA: The US Air Force Special Operations Command's CLEAVER is aiming to turn airlifters into low cost massive airborne cruise missile carriers with implications for the RAAF. |
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STANDARD MINIMI LSW UPGRADE
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Army is upgrading over half of its standard (tactical long barrel) F-89A1 Light Support Weapons to F-89A2 specification following on from the short barrel 'Para' upgrade. |
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EVOLVED ABRAMS OPTIONS
CANBERRA: The future Australian Abrams upgrade will closely leverage the two next generation M1A2 upgrades currently being validated by the US Army. |
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RAN MAINTAINING BORDER PROTECTION
DARWIN: The RAN is employing multiple strategies to ensure the Patrol Boat fleet maintains border protection operations during the pandemic restrictions. |
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AUSTRALIAN CODE BREAKERS
BOOK REVIEW: James Phelp's Great War history of the RAN's capture of German codebooks and the intelligence bonanza the Royal Navy ignored until the disaster at Coronel when they employed it to gain revenge at the Falklands. |
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RNZE COMBAT ENGINEER WATERCRAFT
NEW ZEALAND: The Royal New Zealand Engineers have introduced their new FC530 Combat Engineer Watercraft inflatable boats. |
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MARINE ROTATIONAL FORCE - DARWIN 20 INBOUND
OKINAWA: Marine Rotation Force - Darwin 2020 has commenced a 14 day quarantine in Japan ahead of deployment to the Northern Territory. |
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FIRST US MADE F-35A CRASH
FLORIDA USA: The first US built F-35A Lightning with the same specification as the RAAF's Lightning IIs has been lost during flight ops. |
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THE HAND THAT SIGNED THE PAPER
EDITORIAL: If we are seeking accountability for war crimes why not start with Julia Gillard and Stephen Smith, the Prime Minister and Minister for Defence in May 2012, rather than persecuting junior soldiers and NCOs for the sins of the battlefield. |
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HMAS SYDNEY ENTERS SERVICE
TASMAN SEA: The RAN's third and final Hobart class destroyer was commissioned at sea after stringent pandemic control measures saw her entry into service delayed. |
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NEW AUSTRALIAN DESIGNED INFANTRY BLADE
AUSTRALIA: Specialist blade maker Halfbreed Blades reinterprets an old classic into a new Infantry blade design. |
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PODCAST: URBAN COMBAT AGAINST ISLAMIC STATE
USA: A brilliant US military thinktank analytic podcast about urban close combat against Islamic State in 2016 interviewing Australian veteran Major Gen Roger Noble on his time as CJTF-OIR ground 2IC during the assault on Fallujah and Mosul. |
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AUSSIE F-35 PART PRODUCTION THREATENED
USA: The US President has stated he plans to return F-35 Joint Strike Fighter component production back to the USA threatening Australian aerospace participation in the JSF Program. |
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SINGAPORE CANCELS AUSTRALIAN TRAINING
SINGAPORE: The Singapore Armed Forces has cancelled its planned training deployments to Queensland as part of its pandemic mitigation efforts. |
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RQ-7B TUAS REPLACEMENT OPTIONS
AUSTRALIA: Four advanced US, Israeli and European Tactical Unmanned Aerial Systems are under evaluation to replace the inservice RQ-7Bv1 'eye in the sky'. |
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UPDATED - SYDNEY COMMISSIONING
SYDNEY HARBOUR: The pandemic safe commissioning ceremony for the new destroyer Sydney V may be the first RAN 'underway' commissioning at sea since the Second World War. |
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READINESS CYCLE ADJUSTED - HAMEL 20 CANCELLED
AUSTRALIA: Mandatory pandemic mitigation measures and state border closures have forced Army to adjust its ready brigade rotation certification program. |
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THE BATTLES FOR KOKODA PLATEAU
BOOK REVIEW: David W. Cameron's excellent new history of the brutal struggle by Victorian conscripts and Papuan infantry to defend the vital strip at Kokoda from the rampaging Japanese in July/August 1942. |
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WEDGETAIL - ADF's MOST REQUESTED CAPABILITY
AUSTRALIA: The RAAF's fleet of E-7A Wedgetail Airborne Early Warning & Control aircraft have quietly become the most requested and respected ADF asset by our Coalition partners. |
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ADF RIMPAC DECISION PENDING
AUSTRALIA: The ADF continues to keep the option of participating in RIMPAC 2020 in Hawaiian waters open, continuing to assess any pandemic risks to force elements. |
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MARINE ROTATIONAL FORCE - DARWIN TO DEPLOY
AUSTRALIA: The USMC's Marine Rotational Force - Darwin 2020 is back on, with the Marines Top End bound later this Dry Season. |
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ARAFURA OPV HULL CONSOLIDATION
OSBORNE SA: The RAN's next gen Arafura class OPV first of class has reached hull module consolidation at the ASC's South Australian shipyard. |
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ARMY SEEKS M1A2 ABRAMS SIMULATORS
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Army is seeking training simulators for M1A2 Abrams tanks - signalling the beginning of the replacement of our inservice M1A1 SA Abrams MBTs. |
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FIRST LOYAL WINGMAN BATS UCAS
AUSTRALIA: The first of three prototypes of the Australian designed and built RAAF sponsored Boeing Airpower Teaming System (BATS) unmanned combat aircraft is complete with test flights due later this year. |
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ATTACK SUB BUDGET BLOWS OUT
AUSTRALIA: The depreciation of the Australian dollar has seen the cost of Attack class submarine build blow out to almost $90 billion. |
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RAAF RHINO IRST21 BUY FINALISED
USA: The RAAF's plans to upgrade its F/A-18F to fight against 'lo vis' stealthy aircraft move ahead with IRST21 acquisition contracts finalised. |
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SIX MORE CCPB PATROL BOATS
CANBERRA: Six additional Cape Class Patrol Boats will be built for the RAN to augment the future Arafura class OPV fleet on border protection operations. |
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LOCAL BLU-111 MUNITIONS DELIVERED
BENALLA: The first shipment of Australian made BLU-111 'insensitive' bomb units has been accepted by the RAAF for its combat aircraft fleets. |
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THIRD OF RAAF F-35As FLYING
USA: More than a third of the RAAF's contracted fleet of F-35A Lightning II Joint Strike Fighters have rolled off the assembly line and are flying. |
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DUTCH ORDER MORE BUSHMASTERS
BENDIGO: The Netherland's Koninklijke Landmacht is back for another tranche of Aussie made Bushmaster PMV- Mediums for high risk operations. |
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NEW US STRATEGY INVOLVES AUSTRALIA
INDO PACIFIC: The USA's new Dynamic Force Employment strategy places Australia and the ADF in a central role within regional security initiatives to deter potential aggressors. |
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US ARMY DIGITAL RIFLE FIRE CONTROL
USA: The US Army has begun seeking prototype 'smart sights' for its Next Generation Squad Weapons that exponentially improve soldier 'first round hit' probabilities. |
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SPACE SURVEILLANCE TELESCOPE FIRST PICS
EXMOUTH: The RAAF/US Space Force operated Space Surveillance Telescope in WA has taken its first images during systems trials. |
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CHILE COMMISSIONS EX RAN FFGs
SYDNEY: Former RAN Adelaide class frigates Newcastle and Melbourne were quietly commissioned into the Armada de Chile last week. |
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MAXIMI ENTERS RAN SERVICE
CORAL SEA: Personnel portraiture imagery has revealed the RAN has introduced a gucci coyote coloured para stocked MAXIMI 7.62mm light machine gun into service. |
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RAN RESPONSE TO CHINA MALAYSIA STAND OFF
SOUTH CHINA SEA: HMAS Parramatta is embedded within a US strike group operating in close proximity to the provocative Chinese incursion into Malaysian waters. |
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AOR AOTEAROA SEA TRIALS
SEA OF JAPAN: The Royal New Zealand Navy's next gen Auxiliary Oiler Replenishment Aotearoa is sailing through sea trials off South Korea. |
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VERTREPS KEEP GULF OPS ON STATION
ARABIAN GULF: HMAS Toowoomba's embarked MH-60R Romeo is helping keep the crew isolated from Wuhan Virus with 'no contact' resupply missions. |
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AUTOMATIC AIR TO AIR REFUELLING SUCCESS
SPAIN: The RAAF's KC-30As will soon be flying robotic servos refuelling on demand thanks to successful autonomous air to air refuelling tests over Spain. |
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THIRD RAAF TRITON
USA: US Government information releases reveal another MQ-4C Triton Broad Area Maritime Surveillance drone under contract. |
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RAAF AIR WARFARE CENTRE VIDEO
AUSTRALIA: VIDEO RAAF Warfare Center's new video detailing the scope of multi domain combined joint operations and the RAAF's efforts to perfect them. |
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NEW GUNSHIPS FAR CHEAPER THAN KEEPING TIGER
AUSTRALIA: A new technical analysis has confirmed A&NZD's calculations that buying modern US gunships is exponentially cheaper than retaining the inservice but barely operational Tiger ARH. |
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MC-55A PEREGRINES UNDER ASSEMBLY
CANBERRA: The RAAF has confirmed that its future MC-55A Peregrine Special Electronic Missions Aircraft are advancing through production. |
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UN FREEZES PERSONNEL DEPLOYMENTS
GLOBAL: Australian military deployments to UN peacekeeping missions will be adjusted after the UN has frozen international movements to reduce Wuhan Virus spread. |
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AFGHAN GAINS ON ISLAMIC STATE
AFGHANISTAN: Afghan ANSF and Coalition SoF have delivered some crushing blows against Islamic State in Nangarhar, the last area where Australian SOF have been documented in combat. |
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DEFENCE BUDGET TO BE MAINTAINED
CANBERRA: The Government has expressly recommitted to maintaining the Defence budget in the wake of the Wuhan Virus emergency and the pressures on Commonwealth revenue it has induced. |
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BOXER OPERATIONAL CONVERSION BEGINS
BRISBANE: The first squadron has commenced Operational Conversion training for the next generation Boxer Combat Reconnaissance Vehicle. |
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HMAS BRISBANE POST DELIVERY UPGRADE
SYDNEY: HMAS Brisbane is in dry dock undergoing an upgrade program to bring her up to final Hobart class destroyer specification. |
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ASD COMMENCES CYBER OFFENSIVE OPS
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Signals Directorate has begun offensive cyber ops to block hostile nation states and attack cyber criminal networks using the Pandemic to camouflage malicious activites. |
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ADELAIDE COMMENCES MH-60R FOCTL
JERVIS BAY: MH-60R Romeo helicopter First of Class Flight Trials are underway on HMAS Adelaide. |
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3RD RAAF HORNET IN CANADA
CANADA: A third retired RAAF F/A-18HUG 'Classic' Hornet has been quietly delivered to the Royal Canadian Air Force. |
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RNZAF P-8A PRODUCTION TO COMMENCE
USA: Production of the RNZAF's next generation P-8A Poseidon Multi Mission Maritime Aircraft will commence shortly under a US Navy contract. |
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ADF LAUNCHES OP COVID-19 ASSIST
AUSTRALIA: The ADF has packaged its Wuhan Virus pandemic limitation support ops as Operation Covid-19 Assist. |
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MRF-D MARINE DEPLOYMENT CANCELLED
NORTHERN TERRITORY: This year's deployment of Marine Rotational Force - Darwin is another casualty of global pandemic control measures. |
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NEW ZEALAND WITHDRAWS FROM IRAQ
TAJI IRAQ: The entire New Zealand Defence Force contingent in Iraq has withdrawn early citing pandemic risk reduction measures. |
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TOOWOOMBA NARCOTICS SEIZURE
GULF OF ADEN: HMAS Toowoomba has seized a major shipment of smuggled narcotics in the Middle East waters. |
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ARES ASSISTS QUARANTINE EFFORT
AUSTRALIA: Army Reservists have commenced providing non enforcement support to Police mandatory Wuhan virus quarantine operations. |
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GODLEY: THE MAN BEHIND THE MYTH
BOOK REVIEW: The detailed biography of the almost forgotten British General who built the New Zealand Army and later led Kiwi and Aussie Anzacs at Gallipoli, Flanders and the Somme. |
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SYDNEY ARRIVES AT FLEET BASE EAST
SYDNEY HARBOUR: Nuship Sydney, the final RAN Hobart class destroyer has arrived at Fleet Base East in Sydney Harbour ahead of her commissioning into service. |
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LOCAL 25x137mm MUNITIONS PRODUCTION
BENALLA: Nioa is seeking to produce advanced 25x137mm munitions for the RAAF's F-35As and for export from the Government's ammo factory at Benalla. |
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HAWKEI PMV-L ISSUED TO 1RAR
TOWNSVILLE: 1RAR has accepted the first Aussie made LRIP Hawkei PMV-L armoured vehicles as the lead unit in the Hawkei introduction into service. |
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RAAF AIM-9X-2+ PRODUCTION
USA: The US DoD has contracted Raytheon Missile Systems to produce evolved next gen Sidewinder missiles for the RAAF under the FMS system. |
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AN/ALQ-249 NEXT GEN JAMMER TESTING DONE
AUSTRALIA: The RAAF's future Airborne Electronic Attack capacity is shaping up with the completion of AN/ALQ-249 Next Generation Jammer -Mid Band testing. |
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ADF DOWNSIZES IN IRAQ & AFGHAN
IRAQ & Afghanistan: The ADF is relocating personnel out of Iraq and Afghanistan to reduce the Wuhan virus threat in operational areas. |
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ADF RAMPS UP VIRUS RESPONSE
AUSTRALIA: The ADF has activated teams of experts to assist medical and health workers fight to disrupt the spread of the SARS-CoV-2 Wuhan virus. |
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ANZAC COMMAND AT TAJI ENDS
IRAQ: Anzac Task Group Taji X has quietly transferred command of Camp Taji to the US Army while the Brits withdraw from Iraq citing virus spread reduction justifications. |
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ADF HADR REORG?
CANBERRA: The ASPI think tank has published a concept of how the ADF could respond to the Government's call for the ADF to give greater priority to humanitarian and disaster relief. |
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1RAR TAKES AASAM HONOURS
GREENBANK QLD: 1RAR has scooped up the honours at AASAM 20, taking ADF and Army top shot and AASAM team trophies back to Townsville. |
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ARMY TUAS ISR EXPANSION
AUSTRALIA: The Army is seeking advanced TUAS drones and expanding its TUAS Squadrons by 50 percent to keep up digital development. |
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OILER HMAS SIRIUS FOR SALE
AUSTRALIA: The Department of Defence is offering the RAN's only inservice underway oiler HMAS Sirius for sale in its new Australian Defence Sales Catalogue. |
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PANDEMIC ISSUES FOR ADF
AUSTRALIA: The ADF not only has to face the health affects of SARS-CoV-2, but cancellation of major training programs, delays in equipment acquisition and likely savage future budget cuts. |
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AUSTRALIAN ARMY ISLAMIC UNIFORM
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Army has revealed its new Islamic uniform for female soldiers. |
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ADF PANDEMIC IMPACT REDUCTION RESPONSE
AUSTRALIA: The ADF has introduced a broad range of measures to manage Covid19 infection of personnel and the wider community including cancelling the AASAM international events. |
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ANOTHER SERIOUS TAJI ROCKET ATTACK
IRAQ: Kaitab Hezbollah has conducted a second serious rocket barrage of the Australian operating base at Taji near Baghdad in three days. |
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US RETALIATES AFTER LETHAL TAJI ATTACK
IRAQ: The US has retaliated against Kaitab Hezbollah after the lethal rocket attack on the Australian operating base at Taji near Baghdad. |
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RAN ACCEPTS HEAVY FUEL S-100s
NOWRA NSW: New heavy fuel compliant Vertical Take Off and Landing UAS have been accepted by the RAN after completing comprehensive trials. |
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ARUNTA GOES LOUD AFTER AMCAP
WESTERN AUSTRALIA: HMAS Arunta has launched missiles and fired her main gun for the first time since emerging from the AMCAP upgrade. |
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MASS CASUALTY ROCKET ATTACK TAJI
IRAQ: Mass casualties including CJTF-OIR KIA have been sustained in Taji after a serious rocket barrage on the Anzac base overnight. |
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ADF AFGHANISTAN OPS
AFGHANISTAN: Australian operations in Afghanistan continue unchanged as high level ceasefire negotiations look to end our longest military engagement. |
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2/1RNZIR WINS NZ BDE SKILL AT ARMS
NEW ZEALAND: 2nd/1st Bn Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment has taken the honours at the New Zealand Army's premier combat skills competition. |
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FUTURE WAR: OF LILY PADS & SHIPPING CONTAINERS
EDITORIAL - John Hunter Farrell: The best US military minds have come up with some very interesting strategies to counter totalitarian expansionism in the Indo Pacific. |
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AUSTRALIAN SPECIALIST BLADE MAKER
AUSTRALIA: Specialist blade maker Halfbreed Blades' Compact Clearance Knife designed for Spec Ops and Law Enforcement. |
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RAAF OFFERED USN TRITONS
CANBERRA: Northrop Grumman has offered the RAAF the Triton production slots made available by US budget cuts at lower pricing. |
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SEA 4100/1 MARITIME STRIKE RFI
CANBERRA: The Harpoon Block II Plus Extended Range is the first publicly revealed response to Sea 4100/1 Request for Information. |
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CLASSIC HORNETS SOLD TO ADVERSARY CONTRACTOR
CANBERRA: All of the RAAF's remaining unsold classic Hornets will go to a US airborne adversary training contractor after being withdrawn from service. |
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DDG MAGNETIC DEPERMING IN USA
CALIFORNIA: The US Navy is deperming the RAN's new Hobart class destroyers as Navy moves to reduce Australia's vulnerability to mine warfare. |
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ARMY EAST TIMOR THEATRE HONOUR
CANBERRA: The Australian Army has been presented with the Theatre Honour East Timor 1999-2003 in a ceremony held in Canberra. |
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US COMPROMISES RAAF UAS ACQUISITIONS
USA: The US Navy's suspension of Triton BAMS's orders and the USAF's cancellation of Reaper acquisitions has profound implications for the RAAF. |
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RAN ACCEPTS FINAL HOBART DDG
OSBORNE SA: The RAN has accepted the last of its new Hobart class Guided Missile Destroyers from AWD Alliance in South Australia ahead of commissioning the warship into service in a few months. |
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SPAIN RETIRES 1/4 OF ITS TIGERS
SPAIN: The Spanish Army is retiring a quarter of its Tiger attack helicopter fleet which will be cannibalised as spare parts - reducing the global fleet to just over 130 aircraft after Australia replaces its ARH. |
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F-88A1 AUSTEYR FOR PRIVATE SALE
IRAQ: A genuine Australian made F-88A1 Austeyr rifle is being offered privately for sale on an Iraqi internet site. |
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2 COPE NORTH ADG VIDEO
GUAM: VIDEO RAAF Airfield Defence Guards train with USAF and Japanese airfield defence units during Cope North 20 on Guam. |
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SOVEREIGN RAAF F-35 CODE WRITING CAPABILITY
USA: A highly classified facility in Florida will allow Australia to develop customised software that will allow our F-35's artificial intelligence to clearly see and understand our neighbourhood weapons systems. |
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2 TASK GROUP TAJI VIDEO
IRAQ: VIDEO US released Task Group Taji X range practice video EF-88 and 9mm Browning sequences. |
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TASK GROUP TAJI SECURITY
IRAQ: Slideshow 5RAR and RNZIR Task Group Taji X QRF activities with US 82nd Airborne at Taji Military Complex in Iraq in response to Iranian and militia threats. |
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USMC EYES STERN LANDING VESSEL
USA: The US Marines are exploring a revolutionary Australian amphibious vessel design that is turbocharging over the beach emplacement and forging new pathways in regional power projection and HADR response. |
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UPGUNNED & UPGRADED SOF MRH-90
AUSTRALIA: The MRH-90 is being upgunned and fitted with new insertion and extraction gear in a high priority race to make it suitable for Special Ops before the Black Hawk is retired. |
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EX COPE NORTH AIR WARFARE TRAINING
GUAM: The RAAF is in Guam for intense trilateral air warfare training with Japan and the United States under Cope North 20. |
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2ND RAAF MQ-4C CONTRACTED
USA: The US Government has finalised arrangements for the RAAF's second MQ-4C Triton Broad Area Maritime Surveillance Unmanned Aerial System. |
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HMNZS MANAWANUI UPGRADE COMPLETE
NEW ZEALAND: The RNZN's new Hydrographic and Diving Support Ship HMNZS Manawanui has completed her naval upgrade and commenced sea trials. |
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RAAF POSEIDON FOR NORTH KOREA OPS
AUSTRALIA: The RAAF is about to deploy its first 2020 rotation P-8A Poseidon to Japan for sanctions enforcement against North Korea. |
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NEW TAG-EAST IMAGERY
AUSTRALIA: Special Operations Command Australia has released new Tactical Assault Group - East pics. |
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ANZAC MIDLIFE CAPABILITY ASSURANCE PROGRAM
HENDERSON WA: The 2nd, 3rd and 4th Anzac frigates going through the AMCAP upgrade are progressing with HMAS Anzac approaching sea trials in the near future. |
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HAWKEI PMV-L IN SERVICE SOON
AUSTRALIA: The new Australian built Hawkei PMV-L armoured vehicle is about to recommence its entry into service program in Townsville after a year's delay. |
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RAN STRAIT OF HORMUZ OPS UNDERWAY
STRAIT OF HORMUZ: HMAS Toowoomba has commenced operations with CJTF Sentinel in the Strait of Hormuz off Iran. |
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NEW RNZN AOR AOTEAROA
SOUTH KOREA: The RNZN's impressive new Auxiliary Oiler Replenishment will soon sail for home after final sea trials are completed off South Korea. |
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A3R -AUTOMATED AIR TO AIR REFUELING
SINGAPORE: The Singaporeans are taking the lead in Multi Role Tanker Transport development sparing the RAAF from another potential Airbus R&D nightmare. |
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RAN AUTONOMOUS MINE COUNTERMEASURES
PITTWATER NSW: The RAN is introducing a new range of autonomous underwater mine detection systems within a very deployable small footprint Mine Countermeasures capability. |
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500TH WEDGETAIL OP OKRA MISSION
IRAQ & SYRIA: The RAAF's E-7A Wedgetails have just flown their 500th mission against Islamic State over Iraq and Syria. |
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LOYAL WINGMAN FUSELAGE COMPLETE
BRISBANE: The cutting edge Loyal Wingman Unmanned Combat Aviation Vehicle prototype is under construction at Boeing in Brisbane in the most advanced Australian based military aviation program since the 1950s. |
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RAAF QUIETLY DEPLOYS TO RED FLAG
NEVADA USA: The RAAF is quietly participating in the combined USAF, USN, RAF and RAAF offensive AirEx Red Flag 20-1 in Las Vegas deploying a significant tactical air package. |
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TOOWOOMBA COMMENCES MIDDLE EAST OPS
ARABIAN GULF: HMAS Toowoomba has commenced Maritime Security Ops in the Middle East which will include Op Sentinel missions in the Strait of Hormuz off Iran. |
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RAAF AGM-158C LRASM ACQUISITION
USA: The US Department of Defence has approved a large order of advanced stealthy anti ship missiles for the RAAF's F/A-18F Rhinos. |
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US NAVY UPGUNS P-8A POSEIDONS
USA: The RAAF will benefit from the US Navy's decision to exponentially expand the P-8A Poseidon's combat capability with a new suite of precision munitions. |
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RAAF TRIALS HERC WITH LITENING POD
AUSTRALIA: The RAAF has fitted one of its C-130J airlifters with the AN/AAQ-28 (V) Litening Pod during trials to see if the system can improve aircrew and embarked mission elements' situational awareness. |
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SPIKE LR II FOR INFANTRY & SOF
AUSTRALIA: Australian Army infantry and cavalry units will soon be equipped with a fire and forget, AI aided long range precision missile system capable of defeating all known armour. |
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F-89A2 UPGRADE INSERVICE
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Army is upgrading its inservice F-89A1P Para Minimi Light Support Weapons to F-89A2 specifications. |
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US DOD F-35 REPORT
USA: The US Dept of Defence has released a report into the F-35 program which reveals significant issues and some structural blockages to the type reaching its air combat potential. |
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ANZAC 7.62 PRECISION AUTOS
AUSTRALIA: Feature profiling Australian and New Zealand 7.62x51mm automatic Precision Rifle Systems in service as Marksman Weapon Systems/Designated Marksman Weapons/secondary sniper systems. |
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AUSSIE AFGHAN FORCE REDUCTION
AFGHANISTAN: Australia has reduced its Afghanistan force element significantly and ended operations of a number of Advisory and Mentoring Teams. |
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NEW M252A1 ACHIEVES IOC
AUSTRALIA: The new Picatinny Arsenal M252A1 81mm Mortar System has been certified operational at one SOCAust and one RAR battalion ahead of broad scale roll out. |
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US NAVY MQ-4C OPS COMMENCE
GUAM: The US Navy has deployed the advanced MQ-4C Triton to Guam to commence Pacific Broad Area Maritime Ops which will be coordinated with RAAF MQ-4Cs when they enter service in 2023/24. |
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WILLIAMTOWN F-35 TO INCREASE RAPIDLY
WILLIAMTOWN NSW: The RAAF's Australian based F-35A Lightning II fleet is set to more than double this year and triple by mid next year as the F-35A replaces the F/A-18HUG. |
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4 SQN PC-21 JTAC TRAINERS ARRIVE
WILLIAMTOWN NSW: The RAAF's Joint Terminal Attack Controller training program has re equipped with the new PC-21 aircraft after withdrawing the long serving PC-9A(F). |
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NZ LAUNCH OF TOP SECRET US SATELLITE
NEW ZEALAND: The US Government has contracted a NZ rocket company to launch a top secret surveillance payload into orbit. |
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LEADERSHIP FAILURES IN BUSHFIRE RESPONSE
EDITORIAL: Senior leadership damaged the ADF's reputation with their initial limited and delayed response to the bushfire disaster in Nov - Dec before launching full on Op Bushfire Assist on Jan 1. By John Hunter Farrell |
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AH-64E IS NOT EXPENSIVE - BOEING
AUSTRALIA: Boeing has rejected French claims its AH-64E Apache is too expensive, tabling evidence that the Echo model has lower costs than its competitors while delivering exponentially more combat power to the ADF. |
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MASSIVE RAN SYSTEMS BUY APPROVED
USA: The US Congress has approved a massive RAN systems acquisition request for top shelf equipment for its Hunter class Future Frigates and the upcoming Hobart class destroyer upgrade. |
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LOYAL WINGMAN FLIGHT TRIALS
AUSTRALIA: Flight Trials of the RAAF/Boeing codeveloped Loyal Wingman autonomous Unmanned Combat Air Vehicle are scheduled to commence at an undisclosed location this year. |
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338 NORMA MAGNUM
USA: US Special Operations Command has introduced the modern 338 Norma Magnum cartridge into limited service acquiring both the Light Weight Medium Machine Gun and Sniper systems in the new round. |
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RAAF ARIZONA F-35 TRAINING COMPLETE
ARIZONA: The RAAF's F-35A Lightning fleet will soon be all relocated home to Australia with the end of USAF led operational conversion at Luke AFB in Arizona and the RAAF Williamtown NSW based training will kick off in earnest. |
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ANAO ATTACK CLASS SUB AUDIT
CANBERRA: Contrary to the Top Brass's denials, a close reading of the ANAO Future Submarine Report reveals a project already coming off the rails with cascading costs and a French military industrial complex thumbing its nose at Australia on contract conditions. |
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ANOTHER ROCKET ATTACK ON TAJI
IRAQ: The Australian and New Zealand military base north of Baghdad in central Iraq has been struck for the second time by multiple militant rockets possibly under Iranian orders. |
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BATTLE ON 42ND STREET
BOOK REVIEW: The stunning retelling of the Anzac's brutal last ditch defence of Crete against Hitler's elite airborne Fallschirmjagers and Gebirgsjager mountain troops in 1941. |
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FIRST USN RHINO BLOCK 3 DELIVERED
USA: The first Block III Super Hornet/Rhino is about to be delivered to the US Navy allowing the operational test and evalution program to commence with RAAF fleet upgrade of elements to follow. |
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RAAF AIRBORNE ELECTRONIC ATTACK UPGRADE
USA: A second tranche of upgraded digital systems has been contracted with Northrop Grumman within the RAAF's cutting edge Airborne Electronic Attack upgrade program. |
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TOOWOOMBA TO DEPLOY FOR IRAN OPS
WESTERN AUSTRALIA: The RAN Guided Missile Frigate HMAS Toowoomba will deploy for operations in the Strait of Hormuz on Monday to protect shipping from Iranian sponsored attacks. |
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IRANIAN AL ASAD MISSILE STRIKE 'PINPOINT'
IRAQ: Commercial satellite imagery has revealed a pinpoint missile strike on Al Asad hitting vital CJTF OIR aviation support infrastructure. |
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NO IRANIAN MISSILE HITS ON TAJI
IRAQ: The NZ Government has confirmed that no Iranian missiles hit the Taji Military Complex where Australian and New Zealand military personnel are in lock down due to the Iranian attack on CJTF Op Inherent Resolve bases. |
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GERMAN AIRBUS HELICOPTERS WOES
GERMANY: The German Deutsches Heer is experiencing low availability rates and major issues with its fleets of Airbus Helicopters Tiger and NH90 (Taipans) helos that make the Australian Army and RNZAF's problems seem minor. |
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IRAQ OPERATIONS HALTED
IRAQ: Australian and New Zealand military operations in Iraq have been halted as part of a CJTF-Op Inherent Resolve operational suspension due to threats from Iranian sponsored militias. |
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ADF BUSHFIRE RESPONSE GETS SERIOUS
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Government has overruled state and military authorities to activate the Army Reserve and deploy a much larger military support echelon to assist firefighting operations in NSW and Vic. |
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ADF EXPANDS BUSHFIRE RESPONSE
AUSTRALIA: The ADF has deployed warships and helicopters and activated two Army Reserve Joint Task Forces in response to the dangerous bushfires in NSW and Vic. |
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TAJI MULTIPLE ROCKET ATTACK
IRAQ: Anzac forces at Taji near Baghdad have been subjected to 122mm rocket bombardments launched by Iranian sponsored Kataib Hezbollah which has turned on the Coalition now that Islamic State has been subdued. |
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ROUTE IRISH SUICIDE BOMBING 2005
HOLIDAY SPECIAL PHOTO FEATURE: The horrific mass casualty suicide bomber attack on SECDET 6 on Route Irish in Baghdad in January 2005 that left three ASLAVs and ten Diggers down. Feature with 20 historical images. |
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RAN BROWN WATER SPEC OPS VIETNAM
HOLIDAY SPECIAL PHOTO FEATURE: RAN Clearance Divers conducting combined Riverine Special Operations with the US Navy in South Vietnam's infamous Mekong Delta in 1970. 20 rare pics and a good read. |
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BOXER CRV R400S MK2 RWS CONTRACT
CANBERRA: Contracts for the manufacture of the next gen Aussie made EOS R400S Mark II D-HD 3X Remote Weapons Stations for the Boxer CRV have been signed. |
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RAAF F35 INTEGRATED TRAINING CENTRE READY
WILLIAMTOWN: The RAAF's local F-35 Integrated Training Centre is ready to commence full operational conversion to type in January 2020 with Lightning IIs and a suite of simulators in place. |
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AIRSTRIKE & CASUALTY SURGE IN AFGHANISTAN
AFGHANISTAN: An emboldened Taliban and Islamic State in Khourisan offensive has seen near record airstrikes and casualties in Afghanstan in 2019. |
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LOW DOLLAR SQUEEZES ARMY MODERNISATION
AUSTRALIA: The Reserve Bank's deliberate devaluation of the Australian dollar has seen ADF acquisition costs explode threatening Army's vital modernisation programs. |
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BRISBANE RETURNS FROM CALIFORNIA
SYDNEY: HMAS Brisbane has returned to Fleet Base East in Sydney after her successful completion of live missile firings in California for her CSSQT. |
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CANTO TORPEDO COUNTERMEASURES DECOY
AUSTRALIA: Naval Group has signed agreements with Australian companies to produce the CANTO Torpedo Countermeasures Decoy munition for the future Attack class submarines. |
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WILL ARMY REPEAT TIGER FIASCO
EDITORIAL: Important influencers are arguing hard to retain Army's troubled Tiger Armed Reconnaissance Helicopter instead of buying a new combat proven airframe. |
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TWELFTH POSEIDON ENTERS SERVICE
EDINBURGH: The RAAF's twelfth P-8A Poseidon MMMA has flown into RAAF Edinburgh ahead of schedule. Pic Nathan Rundle Photography |
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SEVEN EXTRA F-35s AT WILLIAMTOWN
WILLIAMTOWN NSW: Seven additional F-35A Lightning IIs have flown into RAAF Williamtown more than doubling the Australian based fleet of Joint Strike Fighters. |
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AUSTRALIAN MADE NZDF HEAVY 5.56
AUSTRALIA: A new Aussie designed heavy 5.56mm round for the New Zealand Army's advanced new MARS-L rifles will replace the F1A1 green tip in NZDF service. |
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LCM8 REPLACEMENT PROJECT
AUSTRALIA: After failing spectacularly in the 2000s, Army is searching for a replacement for its 50 year old LCM8 landing craft for the second time. |
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SPECIAL OPERATIONS LIGHT HELO
AUSTRALIA: Special Operations Command - Australia's quest for a new light helicopter is approaching the request for tender - where shortlisted consortiums will be invited to make hard offers. |
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RAAF PC-21 FLEET COMPLETE
AUSTRALIA: The RAAF complete fleet of the new Pilatus PC-21 advanced trainer aircraft has entered service. |
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HUG HORNET OPERATIONAL CONVERSION ENDS
WILLIAMTOWN NSW: The RAAF's last ever F/A-18HUG Hornet Operational Conversion Course has been completed with the last new classic Hornet pilots qualified. |
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TURNING POINT
BOOK REVIEW: Michael Veith's exploration of the vicious defence of Milne Bay against elite Japanese marines during the invasion in 1942. |
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C-130J LAIRCM COUNTERMEASURES FOC
RICHMOND NSW: The RAAF's C-130J Hercules LAIRCM anti heat seeking missile self defence suites have reached Full Operating Capability. |
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2RAR AMPHIBIOUS SLIDESHOW
TOWNSVILLE: We look at the new composition of the 2nd Battalion (Amphibious) and the Joint Pre Landing Forces it contributes to the Amphibious Ready Group. |
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LOST GROWLER REPLACEMENT OPTIONS
AUSTRALIA: The RAAF has three primary options to replace the capability lost in the EA-18G Growler A46-311 engine fire at Nellis AFB in 2018. |
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RAN TO COMMAND CTF-150 FOR 8TH TIME
BAHRAIN: The Royal Australian Navy is about to assume command of Combined Maritime Force's Combined Task Force 150 in the Middle East for the eighth time. |
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TASK GROUP TAJI ROTATION
IRAQ: The 5RAR led Task Group Taji X is rotating in place with 2/14 LHR led Task Group Taji IX to conduct the new mentoring phase of the military assistance mission in Iraq. |
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MQ-9B SKY GUARDIAN ACQUISITION CONFIRMED
CANBERRA: The RAAF's future MQ-9B Sky Guardian is a far more capable platform than the inservice MQ-9A Reaper made famous in the GWOT. |
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A&NZD'S QUARTER CENTURY IN PRINT ENDS
EDITORIAL: Editor John Hunter Farrell honours the passing of our print magazine with an emotional tribute to the Modern Anzac memories from his 26 years with A&NZD. |
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AUSTRALIAN & NZ DEFENDER NO 108
AUSTRALIA: Issue No 108 is now out, available in print and electronic formats. Go straight to the issue here. |
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RAAF F-35A PRICE DROPS
USA: The delivery price of RAAF F-35A Lightning II Joint Strike Fighters has fallen dramatically according to the latest US Government contractual costing release. |
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ASSEGAI BREAKS 155mm RANGE RECORD
SOUTH AFRICA: An evolution of the Australian Army's new RDM Assegai 155mm Precision Guided Munitions has broken world 155mm range records during firings in South Africa. |
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ANNUALEX SHOW OF FORCE
SEA OF JAPAN: HMAS Hobart and Parramatta have participated in the Japanese Maritime Self Defence Force's major AnnualEx activity in the Sea of Japan. |
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RAAF COMPLETES STRAIT OF HORMUZ OPS
UAE: The RAAF P-8A Poseidon conducting surveillance of the Strait of Hormuz has returned to Australia after completing its MER mission. |
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ARMY ACQUIRES JCREW I1B1 C-IED JAMMER
USA: The Australian Army will acquire the Northrop Grumman Joint Counter Radio-Controlled Improvised Explosive Device Electronic Warfare Increment 1 Block 1 (JCREW I1B1) System. |
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US APPROVES NZ C-130J HERC BUY
USA: The US Congress has approved New Zealand's request for five extremely high specification C-130J-30 Hercules to replace the inservice C-130H fleet. |
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JAPAN DEFENCE COOPERATION EXPANSION
JAPAN: Japanese military deployments to Australia and ADF deployments in Japan will grow under the new Special Strategic Partnership. |
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EX WIRRA JAYA 19 INDONESIA
INDONESIA: An Australian Army Combat Team is in East Java conducted combined training with KOSTRAD under Ex Wirra Jaya 19. |
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TAJI SCHOOL OF INFANTRY FOC
IRAQ: The Anzac Task Group Taji 9 Advise Assist & Enable team has achieved its mission with the Iraqi School of Infantry training team certified Full Operating Capability. |
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SOLOMONS EROW EOD
SOLOMON ISLANDS: Slideshow - Combined Australian and New Zealand Explosive Ordnance Disposal Operations targeting Explosive Remnants of war in the Solomon Islands. |
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INTERNATIONAL SUB RESCUE EX
FLEET BASE WEST: The international submarine crew rescue exercise Ex Pacific Reach has successfully conducted underwater personnel transfer from RAN and Korean submarines. |
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ADF PHILIPPINES TIES UPGRADED
AUSTRALIA: The Government has substantially upgraded military to military relationship with the Philippines with an Enhanced Defence Cooperation Program. |
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CEA NASAMS RADAR CONTRACTS
AUSTRALIA: Contracts for advanced Aussie CEA Technologies AESAR radars for the Army's NASAMS Surface to Air Missile system have been signed. |
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ADF BUSHFIRE RESPONSE
AUSTRALIA: ADF bushfire response operations escalate as bushfires threaten homes and wildlife in New South Wales and Queensland. |
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RAAF BLACK CATS
BOOK REVIEW: The new history detailing the RAAF's top secret aerial mining operations targeting the Japanese during 1943 -45. |
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CANBERRA CLASS ACHIEVES FOC
AUSTRALIA: The RAN's two Canberra class Amphibious Assault Ships have achieved Full Operating Capability certification. |
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KOPASSUS TRAIN WITH SASR IN WA
PERTH: Indonesian Kopassus Special Operations elements have been conducting high level training with the SASR in Perth as part of ongoing Australian cooperation policies. |
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SYDNEY COMPLETES SEA TRIALS
OSBORNE SA: The final RAN Hobart class destroyer has successfully completed her sea trials in South Australia ahead of her acceptance by the RAN next year. |
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RNZN MARITIME EOD GUAM
GUAM: Slideshow. The RNZN's Maritime EOD specialists team up with US Navy, USMC, Australian and Canadian Naval Special Clearance/Special Operations elements in Guam for Hydracrab 19. |
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US ARMY NEXT GEN SMALL ARMS
USA: Three evolved 6.8mm infantry weapon designs are competing for the US Army's Next Generation Squad Weapons to replace the M-4 and M-249. |
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TASK GROUP TAJI DRAWDOWN
TAJI IRAQ: Task Group Taji is contracting, with the soon to deploy Task Group Taji 10 widely rumoured to be the final Op Okra BPC mission contingent to deploy to Iraq. |
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DETAIL OF BAGHDADI RAID
UNITED KINGDOM: British newspapers are reporting what they claim is the inside story on the US elimination of Abu Bakr al Baghdadi. |
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EX THOR'S HAMMER COUNTER-IED
WOOMERA: The ADF has hosted NATO's premier Counter-IED expert subject matter exchange exercise at its Woomera Protected Area electronic support measures test range. |
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AUSSIE BASED JSF FLEET TO DOUBLE
WILLIAMTOWN: The RAAF's Aussie based F-35A fleet will double in the next six weeks as the JSF operational conversion gains hard momentum. |
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HANWHA AMPHIBIOUS ASSAULT BID
SOUTH KOREA: Hanwha has unveiled a scale model of the KAAV2, the system from which its Next Generation Australian Amphibious Assault Vehicle will evolve. |
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MAJOR F/A-18F SYSTEMS UPGRADE
AUSTRALIA: The RAAF is acquiring a suite of next generation systems that will exponentially expand the F/A-18F's combat capability and digital integration. |
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ARMY DISPOSES MV-10 MINE FLAIL
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Army has disposed of its entire fleet of expensive DOK-ING MV-10 Mine Flail robots after less than five years service with Combat Engineer Regiments. |
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NZSAS PARACHUTE LOAD FOLLOW
NEW ZEALAND: The NZDF has released images of its Special Operations Forces' maritime parachute insertion capability certification exercises. |
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END OF RAN's FFG ERA
AUSTRALIA: The decommissioning of HMAS Melbourne marks the end of 39 years of RAN Adelaide class FFG7 ops and the long term reduction of the Surface Force to 11 warships in the 2020s. |
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BAGHDADI STRIKE REPORTS
UNITED STATES: Their are multiple reports that Islamic State Caliph Abu Bakr al Baghdadi has been killed in a US attack in eastern Syria. |
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2OCU FINAL HORNET ORDNANCE DELIVERY
WILLIAMTOWN: 2 Operational Conversion Unit dropped the last 'bomb' from a 'classic' F/A-18B last week as the unit winds up Hornet training and progresses on to the F-35A. |
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PARRAMATTA NORTH KOREA SANCTIONS OPS
NORTH PACIFIC: HMAS Parramatta will conduct North Korean sanctions compliance monitoring operations under Operation Argos in the Yellow Sea and Sea of Japan. |
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2RAR CAMBRIAN PATROL TEAM TAKES SILVER
UNITED KINGDOM: Eight 2RAR Amphibious specialists were awarded Silver medals at the British Army's Cambrian Patrol competition held in the Welsh Brecon Beacons. |
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2 COMMANDO 10 YEAR VIDEO
AUSTRALIA: VIDEO SOCAust has released a new video to commemorate 2 Commando Regiment's 10th birthday. 2019 Hostage Recovery/Counter Terrorism sequences. |
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MARINE MRF-D 19 COMPLETES DEPLOYMENT
DARWIN: Marine Rotational Force - Darwin 19 has successfully completed its deployment in Australia and returned to the USA. |
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RAAF STRAIT OF HORMUZ ISR OPS
UNITED ARAB EMIRATES: The RAAF has commenced P-8A Poseidon MMMA surveillance flights over the Strait of Homuz. |
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NEW LOOK HMNZS TE KAHA
CANADA: The RNZN's new look Anzac class frigates have been revealed with HMNZS Te Kaha with an integrated new superstructure bristling with new sensors. |
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AS21 REDBACK REVEALED
SOUTH KOREA: First Pic! Hanwha Defense has revealed a pre production prototype of the AS21 Redback AFV competing for the Australian Army's APC replacement. |
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BOOMERANGER RHIBS FOR ARAFURA OPVS
AUSTRALIA: The RAN's future Arafura class Offshore Patrol Vessels will be equipped with three Finnish made Boomeranger Rigid Hulled Inflatable Boats. |
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RNZAF DEPLOYS P-3K2 FOR DPRK OPS
NEW ZEALAND: The RNZAF is conducting its second operational deployment of a P-3K2 Orion MPA to fly sanctions monitoring against North Korea. |
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KMW 155mm ARTILLERY GUN MODULE
AUSTRALIA: KMW's 155mm Artillery Gun Module could be integrated onto inservice Army Boxers, HX trucks or the Land 400/3 IFV to fulfill the Protected Mobile Fires requirement. |
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MARITIME TACTICAL UAS CAPABILITY
AUSTRALIA: The RAN's search for a Maritime Tactical Unmanned Aerial System capability under Project Sea 129 Phase 5 is about to heat up. |
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TURKISH INVASION OF SDF AREAS
SYRIA: One of Australia's most respected military advisors sheds some light on the Turkish incursion into Kurdish held areas in northern Syria. |
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NZSAS DEBUT NEW NZMTP UNIFORM
NEW ZEALAND: NZ Special Operations Forces have released images of a Hostage Recovery exercise with operators wearing the next gen NZMTP multicam combat fatigues. |
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NEXT GENERATION TACTICAL WATERCRAFT
AUSTRALIA: Former RAN CDT operators have developed a high tech naval special operations watercraft specifically to suit ADF water operations. |
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ATTACK CLASS SUB DESIGN
CANBERRA: The head of the Future Submarine Project has described the Attack class as an all new 'bespoke' design with 'references' from the French nuke Barracuda. |
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BELL'S NEXT GEN GUNSHIP
USA: Gunship helicopter founder Bell has released an image and a few details of its next generation 360 Invictus Attack Recon helicopter. |
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COMMANDO SENSITIVE SITE EXPLOITATION EX
NORTH QUEENSLAND: Photo feature: 2 Commando Regt led Direct Action raid and Sensitive Site Exploitation ex within Talisman Sabre including sensational colour night viz pics. |
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LAND 400 PHASE 3 RMA TRIALS
AUSTRALIA: Rheinmetall and Hanwha have 12 months to deliver three prototype armoured vehicles ahead of the Land 400/3 RMA trials which will begin next year. |
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US ARMY'S NEXT GEN 6.8mm AMMO
UNITED STATES: If the US Army's Next Generation Squad Weapons program is successful we will be saying goodbye to the long serving 5.56 and 7.62mm cartridges in the next decade and a half. |
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LIBERATION & CONSOLIDATION: INTERFET DAY 6-10
INDONESIAN EAST TIMOR: Photo feature: INTERFET September 25 to October 1 1999 - INTERFET's hard yards begin as it moves to stabilise Dili and expand into the regions after the TNI withdrawal. Photo report by John Hunter Farrell. |
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RAN ENDS FFG OPS
SYDNEY HARBOUR: The RAN ended 39 years of Adelaide class FFG operations on September 27 when HMAS Melbourne returned to base for the last time. |
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TENTH P-8A POSEIDON
EDINBURGH SA: The RAAF's tenth P-8A Poseidon Multi Mission Maritime Aircraft has entered service with 11 Squadron in Australia. |
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HAWKEI PMV-L DELAY
AUSTRALIA: The Government has confirmed that the Hawkei PMV - Light program has been delayed but maintains the vehicle will reach FOC on schedule. |
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UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT: INTERFET DAY 5
INDONESIAN EAST TIMOR: Photo feature: INTERFET September 24 1999 - the final TNI elements withdraw and INTERFET goes on the offensive. Photo report by John Hunter Farrell. |
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FIRST BOXER CRV ENTERS SERVICE
ENOGGERA QLD: The Army has revealed its first Boxer Combat Reconnaissance Vehicle Block 1 at a ceremony at Gallipoli Barracks Brisbane. |
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AVOIDING ESCALATION: INTERFET DAY 3 & 4
INDONESIAN EAST TIMOR: Photo feature: INTERFET's early ops in Dili on September 22/23 1999 - careful steps to protect the people and avoid all out war. Photo report by John Hunter Farrell. |
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RAAF/USAF C-17A RECIPROCAL REPAIR ARRANGEMENT
WASHINGTON STATE USA: An RAAF C-17A is the first to be repaired by the USAF under the new reciprocal repair arrangement between the two air forces. |
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BUDGET VIP MRTT ENTERS SERVICE
WASHINGTON DC: The RAAF's dual role VIP transport/tanker KC-30A A39-007 has conducted its first known Prime Ministerial transport op. |
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USN RAN VALIDATE SUB SUSTAINMENT
FLEET BASE WEST: The RAN and USN have validated their ability to re arm an Australian Collins class submarine from a US Navy submarine tender. |
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GROUND BASED 30 X 113mm
AUSTRALIA: The introduction into service of the advanced Australian made EOS R400S Mk 2 Remote Weapons Station brings the possibility of employing the Apache gunship's lethal 30 x113mm cannon capability. |
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EARLY HOURS: INTERFET ENTRY OPS
INDONESIAN EAST TIMOR: Photo feature: INTERFET's dramatic entry into Dili on September 20/21 1999 and the liberation of East Timor. Photo commemoration by John Hunter Farrell. |
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HANWHA AS21 REDBACK ACV
CANBERRA: We examine the downselected Hanwha Defence Australia option for Project Land 400 Phase 3 - the AS21 Redback Family of Armoured Vehicles. |
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RHEINMETALL KF41 LYNX FOV
CANBERRA: We take a closer look at the Rheinmetall Defence Australia proposal for Project Land 400 Phase 3 - the KF41 Lynx Family of Vehicles. |
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LAND 400 PHASE 3 SHORTLIST ANNOUNCED
CANBERRA: The Department of Defence has announced that the two successful downselected tenders for Land 400/3 are Hanwha and Rheinmetall. |
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NUSHIP SYDNEY COMMENCES SEA TRIALS
ADELAIDE: The RAN's third Hobart class Guided Missile Destroyer Nuship Sydney has commenced Sea Trials ahead of handover to Navy. |
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RAAF WEDGETAIL REDEPLOYED TO IRAQ
MIDDLE EAST: The RAAF has redeployed an E-7A Wedgetail to support the fight against Islamic State in Iraq only seven months after announcing the type's end of Iraq mission. |
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ADF DELEGITIMISES FLAG, ANZAC HERITAGE
CANBERRA: The Australian Defence Force is set to rename every defence facility and downgrade the primacy of the Australian flag to shared status under Campbell's radical new reconciliation policy. |
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JOINT PRECISION AIR DROP SYSTEM
CURTIN WA: The RAAF and Army have successfully demonstrated the new Joint Precision Air Drop System to accurately deliver air resupply packages from medium altitude. |
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FIFTH & SIXTH F-35As ARRIVE
WILLIAMTOWN NSW: The fifth and sixth RAAF F-35A Lightning II Joint Strike Fighters have flown into Williamtown bringing the local 3 Squadron's nose count to six airframes. |
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SIX RFIs FOR TIGER REPLACEMENT
AUSTRALIA: Up to six international attack reconnaissance helicopters have been put forward as a potential replacement for the Tiger ARH with Leonardo and Denel showing interest. |
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4 SQN REPLACING PC-9A(F) WITH PC-21
WILLIAMTOWN NSW: The RAAF's PC-9A(F) Forward Air Control aircraft are being replaced with the new PC-21 FAC rolling off the Pilatus line in Switzerland. |
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RAAF HORNETS TO JAPAN
JAPAN: The RAAF is deploying F/A-18HUG Hornets to Hokkaido in Japan to fly with Japanese F-15J Eagles under Exercise Bushido Guardian. |
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HMAS BRISBANE CSSQT TRIALS
NORTH AMERICA: HMAS Brisbane has crossed the Pacific to conduct her Combat Systems Ship Qualification Trials visiting Pearl Harbour and Canada on the voyage. |
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FRENCH NUCLEAR SUB SEA TRIALS IN 2020
FRANCE: Sea trials of the French Navy's nuclear submarine Suffren which is the base design for Australia's future submarine are scheduled for 2020. |
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M1277 MATV AT SWBTA
SHOALWATER BAY: The US Army deployed the M1277 MATV to Australia during Talisman Sabre, believed to be the first deployment of the type. |
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ANA OFFICER ACADEMY
AFGHANISTAN: VIDEO Australian mentoring operations at the Afghan National Army Officer Academy are bearing fruit. |
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EX WANTOK WARRIOR 19
PAPUA NEW GUINEA: 3RAR and 3CER are spearheading Exercise Wantok Warrior with the PNGDF in Papua New Guinea. |
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P-8A REJOINS NORTH KOREA SANCTIONS OPS
CANBERRA: The Government has announced another P-8A deployment to Japan for North Korea sanctions enforcement. |
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UNDERWAY OILER STALWART III LAUNCHED
SPAIN: The RAN's second Supply class Auxiliary Oiler Replenishment Stalwart III was launched in Spain after a rapid nine month build. |
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SNIPER THERMAL WEAPON SIGHT ACQUISITION
AUSTRALIA: The next generation long range ThermoSight HISS-XLR Thermal Weapons Sights has entered service with Special Operations Command - Australia and the School of Infantry sniper cell. |
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AUSTRALIAN & NZ DEFENDER NO 107
AUSTRALIA: Issue No 107 is now out, available in print and electronic formats here. |
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LOOKING BACK 20 YEARS TO OUR INTERVENTION IN EAST TIMOR
EDITORIAL: We honour INTERFET, the Australian intervention that created the independent nation of Timor Leste. |
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SOER & CDTs IN GUAM EOD EX
GUAM: PHOTOSTORY Aussie Special Operations Engineer Regt operators and Clearance Divers are in Guam for a major EOD exercise with USMC and USN specials. |
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LAND 400-3 DOWN SELECT IMMINENT
AUSTRALIA: The announcement of which two armoured vehicles will enter competitive trials to replace the M113AS4 is imminent. |
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TAG-EAST KAC MASTER KEY BREACHER
AUSTRALIA: One of the less conventional TAG Close Quarter Battle weapons is the KAC Master Key breaching shotgun. |
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ADF STRAIT OF HORMUZ DEPLOYMENT
CANBERRA: The ADF deployment to support the international escort force in the Strait of Hormuz has been announced. |
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RAN EXTENDS CAPE PB LEASE
AUSTRALIA: The RAN has extended its Cape class patrol boat lease to meet its high tempo border protection operational requirements. |
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TS19 AMPHIBIOUS DRONE VIDEO
BOWEN: VIDEO Outstanding extended drone video of the combined TS19 amphibious assault at Kings Beach Bowen on July 22. |
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M107A1 50BMG SNIPER RIFLE IN SERVICE
AUSTRALIA: A Prime Ministerial PR photo confirms that the Barrett M107A1 .50 cal is operational with Special Operations Command. |
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D DAY NEW GUINEA
BOOK REVIEW: The excellent history of the overwhelming Australian victory at Lae in 1943 which forced the Japanese to flee without a fight. |
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TALISMAN SABRE SPECIAL OPERATIONS
NORTH QUEENSLAND: PHOTO FEATURE. The Talisman Sabre Special Operations task element activities including air mobile, vehicle ops and direct action counter terrorist raids. |
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US ARMY EXTENDED DEPLOYMENT IN AUSTRALIA
HAWAII: The US Army is planning an extended deployment of forces to Australia next year under its Pacific Pathways 2.0 program. |
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BRISBANE SAILS FOR CSSQT IN USA
PACIFIC OCEAN: HMAS Brisbane is underway to the USA with a full suite of live missiles for the destroyer's Combat Systems Ships Qualification Trials. |
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MORE TIGER ISSUES
GERMANY: Airbus Helicopters has released a safety notification for Tiger helicopters that is serious enough for the German Army ground its entire fleet. |
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AN/ALQ-249 NEXT GEN JAMMER TRIALS
USA: The RAAF's near future acquisition of the Next Generation Jammer for it Growlers took a step forward with US Navy user trials of the formidable new AEA system. |
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ADF HORMUZ ESCORT OPTIONS
AUSTRALIA: The ADF has a broad spectrum of useful options for any naval escort force in the Straits of Hormuz if the Government chooses to participate. |
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TS19 MARINE FORCE RECON SOF
CENTRAL QLD: SLIDESHOW - USMC Marine Force Recon specialists conducted 'Key Hole' Special Reconnaissance and 'Sting Ray' Direct Action exercises during TS19. |
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UPGRADED DDG MH-60R FLIGHT TRIALS
NSW WATERS: The RAN is conducting Romeo flight trials on HMAS Hobart's upgraded configuration to establish final Ship Helicopter Operating Limits. |
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LCM-1E UPGRADED TO DEPLOY ABRAMS
TOWNSVILLE: The RAN has successfully trialled an upgraded LCM-1E Landing Craft to transport the Army's M1A1 Abrams and other heavy vehicles. |
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JAPANESE TS19 AMPHIBIOUS GROUP
CENTRAL QLD: SLIDESHOW The Japanese Self Defence Force deployment during Talisman Sabre 2019 demonstrated that nation's growing amphibious capability. |
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2RAR TS19 SUPACAT SOV-CDO
SHOALWATER BAY: The US DoD has accidently confirmed 2RAR (Amphib) use of ex SF Supacat Special Operations Vehicles (SOV-Cdo) during Talisman Sabre 2019. |
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FOUR MORE P-8As INBOUND
RAAF EDINBURGH: The last four P-8A Poseidons have rolled off the Boeing production line and will arrive in Australia by January with the first due in August. |
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SASR WORKING WITH KOPASSUS IN INDONESIA
INDONESIA: Rare imagery of high level Counter Terrorism training activities between Special Operations Command Australia and Indonesia's KOPASSUS has emerged. |
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LOCAL F-35 OP CON FLIGHTS COMMENCE
RAAF WILLIAMTOWN: The RAAF's first two pilots to conduct Operational Conversion to the F-35A in Australia have completed their first solo flights. |
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MARINE MRF-D AT FULL STRENGTH
AUSTRALIA: The arrival of the 3rd Bn 3rd Marines has brought Marine Rotational Force - Darwin to a full MAGTF strength of 2500 for the first time since deployment began in 2012. |
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TS19 ADF/US SPEC OP HALO JUMP
QUEENSLAND: SLIDESHOW US and Australian Special Operations Forces conduct a HALO parachute insertion into Talisman Sabre to conduct Special Reconnaissance ahead of the big landing. |
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TS19 USAF SoF COMBAT SEARCH & RESCUE
QUEENSLAND: USAF Airforce Special Operations PJ pararescuemen have been active in Queensland conducting Combat Search and Rescue in support of Ex Talisman Sabre. |
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AH-64E & AH-1Z CONFIRMED TENDERS
AUSTRALIA: Boeing and Bell have confirmed they will be offering their cutting edge AH-64E Guardian and AH-1Z Zulu Cobra attack helos to replace the Tiger ARH. |
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ADF OPERATES IN GULF OF OMAN FLASHPOINTS
GULF OF OMAN: Australian military aircraft and warships routinely operate in the areas where the US, UK, GCC and Iran are shooting down each others aircraft and Iran is threatening shipping. |
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TS19 AMPHIBIOUS INSERTION
STANAGE BAY: VIDEO The official video of the combined amphibious assault on Stanage Bay during Exercise Talisman Sabre. |
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COMMANDO COUNTER TERRORISM
AUSTRALIA: PHOTO FEATURE SOCOMD-Australia has released a very rare photo essay of 2nd Commando Regt conducting Special Recovery and Counter Terrorist training. |
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TS19 MEGA OVER THE BEACH ASSAULT
STANAGE BAY: PHOTO FEATURE The largest ever amphibious exercise since WW2 was conducted by Australian, New Zealand, British, American and Japanese forces for Exercise Talisman Sabre. |
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NZ WANTS MORE BUSHMASTER PMV-M
NEW ZEALAND: The NZ Government has commenced negotiations for a significant quantity of Bushmaster PMVs to harden up its expeditionary forces. |
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ADF COY ON PROTECTED MOBILE FIRES
CANBERRA: Defence won't confirm any platform as the 'Self Propelling Howitzers' announced by the PM during the Election but confirms Tactical Rocket Artillery and the M-777A2. |
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TS19 ROYAL MARINE COMMANDOS
CORAL SEA: An elite team of Royal Marine Commandos have been integrated within 2RAR (Amphibious) for Talisman Sabre's Pre Landing Force operations prior to the Amphibious emplacement at Shoalwater Bay. |
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TIGER REPLACEMENT PROJECT UNDERWAY
CANBERRA: The long awaited program to replace the Army's troubled Tiger ARH helos is underway with a healthy budget for new gunships approved and an RFI released. |
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AIM-120D AMRAAM ALREADY IN RAAF SERVICE
AMBERLEY: AIM-120D AMRAAM Captive Air Training Missiles are being employed by RAAF F/A-18Fs during Talisman Sabre and have been in service for 'a few years'. |
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RAPTORS FLY IN FOR TS19
AMBERLEY: The USAF has entered Talisman Sabre with its usual style and a contingent spearheaded by the Pacific Air Force's F-22A Raptors from Alaska. |
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HiMARS RAIN FIRE AT SWBTA
SHOALWATER BAY: Slideshow - US Army and USMC M142 HiMARS systems opened Talisman Sabre with a Hi RAIN bombardement of M270 rockets. |
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HiMARS LAUNCH TALISMAN SABRE
SHOALWATER BAY: US M142 HiMARS, AH-64E Guardians and F-35B Lightnings will kick off Talisman Sabre 2019 with a major live fire demonstration. |
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RAAF INTRODUCES GBU-39/B SDB
WILLIAMTOWN: The RAAF'S F-35A Integrated Training Centre is employing its high tech training simulators to introduce the cutting edge GBU-39/B Increment 1 Small Diameter Bomb. |
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CHINA FIRES MISSILES FROM SPRATLYS
SOUTH CHINA SEA: The ADF has cautiously responded to China's launch of multiple Anti Ship Missiles from its unrecognised Spratly Islands' military bases. |
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FIRST AH-64E OPS IN AUSTRALIA
CENTRAL QLD: The US Army is conducting the first known military flights of the AH-64E in Australia for Talisman Sabre. First pics by Jason at J.M Photography |
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TALISMAN SABRE CONCENTRATION
CENTRAL QLD: Contingents from Australia, New Zealand, the United States, Canada and Japan have commenced integration activities for Talisman Sabre 2019. |
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ANZAC SURFACE COMBATANT FLEET CONTRACTS
AUSTRALIA: The combined Australian and NZ surface combatant fleet will be temporarily reduced to seven fully certified warships due to decommissioning, upgrades and delays. |
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MASSIVE AMPHBIOUS FORCE ASSEMBLES FOR TS19
CORAL SEA: The largest Amphibious fleet to operate from Australian territory since the Pacific War is assembling for Talisman Sabre 2019. |
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RAN SEIZES MASSIVE AMMUNITION HAUL
ARABIAN SEA: HMAS Ballarat has seized a massive haul of smuggled ammunition and HME explosives precursers bound for Yemen. |
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EX ARAFURA WARRIOR
TIMOR LESTE: 1 Brigade deployed a Combined Arms training team to Timor as part of Australia's expanding regional military engagement. |
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NZ's HOT & HEAVY 5.56 ROUND
NEW ZEALAND: The NZDF has introduced a heavy 5.56mm round usually used by US Special Operations Forces for its Gucci new LMT MARS-L rifles. |
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ABRAMS TUSK SUSPENSION UPGRADE
BANDIANA: Australian M1A1 AIM SA Abrams MBTs have almost completed a full suspension upgrade to accommodate the full TUSK survivability systems integration. |
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ARMY CUTS RECRUIT FITNESS REQUIREMENTS
KAPOOKA: Army has ended fitness testing requirements at 1RTB to accommodate females and lower unacceptable injury rates amongst 'unconditioned' recruits. |
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GULF OF OMAN ATTACK
GULF OF OMAN: The US Navy UAS shot down by Iran was a precurser to the MQ-4C Triton ordered by the RAAF not a Global Hawk as reported. |
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155mm ASSEGAI BALLISTIC DATA CAPTURE
PORT WAKEFIELD SA: Australia is developing the digital ballistic data files for the M-777A2 155mm gun and the next generation RDM Assegai munitions for AFATDS. |
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US & JAPANESE ARRIVE FOR TALISMAN SABRE
AUSTRALIA: US Navy and Japanese JMSDF flat tops are massing in Australia ahead of Exercise Talisman Sabre 2019. |
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MRH-90 SUSTAINMENT PAIN
AUSTRALIA: The ADF's fleet of MRH-90 Tactical Transport Helicopters cost more to fly per hour than the much more capable Chinook or much more sophisticated Romeo. |
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RAN WARSHIPS TO DECOMMISSION
SYDNEY: The RAN is about to decommission two of its most deployed warships with a third due to follow later in the year as the Navy transitions to modern designs. |
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TWO RAAF F-35As DIVERTED FROM AUSSIE CONVERSION OPS
USA: The RAAF's two newest F-35A Lightning IIs have been diverted away from the Operational Conversion to Type program after a US request. |
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AUSSIE GBAD IN ARCTIC CIRCLE
FINLAND: Australian Ground Based Air Defence Systems deployed to Finland as part of the international effort to deter Russian aggression into the Nordic areas. |
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ARUNTA REJOINS FLEET AFTER UPGRADE
WESTERN AUSTRALIA: HMAS Arunta has returned to Fleet Base West ahead of the resumption of sea operations after completing the AMCAP upgrade. |
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C-130J-30 HERCULES FOR RNZAF
NEW ZEALAND: The New Zealand Government has selected the C-130J-30 Hercules airlifter as the replacement for its inservice C-130H Hercules fleet. |
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TIGER ARH FORCED LANDING
OAKEY QLD: A Tiger ARH helicopter has conducted a forced landing after hitting power lines during a training flight near the AAAvnTC at Oakey SEQ. |
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END OF AUSSIE IRAQ OPS
NEW ZEALAND: The announcement of NZ's withdrawal from Iraq has probably put a date on the long planned Australian end of ground forces' mission against Islamic State. |
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BALLARAT'S HASH HIGHWAY SEIZURES SKYROCKET
ARABIAN SEA: HMAS Ballarat has pulled off four more major narcotics interdictions along the Hash Highway out of Pakistan with 5800 kilograms of hashish seized. |
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HIGH COST OF AEA SUSTAINMENT
AUSTRALIA: According to budget documents, the RAAF's most expensive airframe to operate is NOT the much maligned F-35A Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter. |
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TIGER COSTS MORE THAN ARMY AMMO
AUSTRALIA: Keeping the under performing Tiger ARH helicopter flying costs more than the Army's yearly ammunition expenditure costs. |
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ROYAL THAI ARMY EX IN FNQ
TOWNSVILLE: Slideshow - 1RAR hosted a detachment of Royal Thai Army infantry for cooperative combat training and mutual confidence building. |
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KC-30A TANKER RETURNS TO IRAQ
MIDDLE EAST: An RAAF KC-30A MRTT tanker has returned to the Middle East to resume support for CJTF-Operation Inherent Resolve against Islamic State remnants. |
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SOUTHERN JACKAROO 2019
SHOALWATER BAY: Slideshow - Australian, Japanese and US Marine troops concentrated at Shoalwater Bay for Exercise Southern Jackaroo 2019. |
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AUSTRALIAN & NZ DEFENDER NO 106
AUSTRALIA: Issue No 106 is now out, available in print and electronic formats here! |
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INDEPENDENCE CLASS LCS FOR RAN?
AUSTRALIA: The US Navy is using the Australian designed Independence class LCS as its Mine Countermeasures platform will the RAN follow? |
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NAVY QUIETLY SOLD OFF TWO MINE HUNTERS
SYDNEY: The RAN quietly sold off two of its six Huon class Mine Hunter Coastal vessels late last year reducing its fleet to four operational boats. |
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A VERY UN-AUSTRALIAN BLAME GAME
EDITORIAL: Our Head Brass and upper echelons are off hunting scalps from the lower ranks in order to signal their virtue and cement their positions in the new era of social justice focused politics. |
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BALLARAT SEIZES 3000KG OF NARCOTICS
MIDDLE EAST: VIDEO - HMAS Ballarat has successfully conducted another enormous narcotics seizure bringing her combined total interdictions to over $1 billion. |
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SOUTH CHINA SEA LASER ATTACKS
SOUTH CHINA SEA: Australian helicopter crews were 'blinded' by lasers emanating from Chinese flagged vessels off Vietnam in the South China Sea during Indo Pacific Endeavour. |
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AIR WARFARE THREAT SIMULATION
NT: The RAAF is employing a broad range of sophisticated airborne and ground based threat simulators to make training realistic. |
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FIRST US/JAPAN/ROK/RAN WARFIGHTING EX
GUAM: Warships from Australia, Japan, South Korea and the USA have concentrated at Guam for a high level maritime warfare exercise Ex Pacific Vanguard 19. |
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M107A1 ENTERS RNZIR SERVICE
NEW ZEALAND: The new Barrett M107A1 50 cal Long Range Sniper Rifle is entering service with the Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment. |
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IRAQ SECURITY DETERIORATES
IRAQ: The Iranian threat to Australian and New Zealand forces in Iraq has worsened with some CJTF-OIR contingents suspending support operations altogether. |
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R400S MK2 PWS ENTERS SERVICE
GLOBAL: The Australian Army's new R400S Mk 2 Protected Weapons Station has been integrated onto Bushmasters operating in Iraq, Afghanistan and Australia. |
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M1A2C ABRAMS ENTERS SERVICE
USA: The Australian Army's next generation tank acquisition under Project Land 907 Phase 2 is firming with the M1A2C entry into US Army service. |
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BALLARAT WITH FRENCH CARRIER GROUP
MIDDLE EAST: VIDEO - HMAS Ballarat has conducted exercises with the French Charles de Gaulle Carrier Strike Group and Coalition warships in the MER. |
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PROTECTED MOBILE FIRES
AUSTRALIA: The re election of the Morrison Government has turned the announcement of the acquisition of a fleet of 'Self Propelled Howitzers' from election promise to exciting reality. |
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NEW M252A1 MORTAR OP CONVERSION
AUSTRALIA: The Army is hard at work introducing the M252A1 81mm Mortar System which will replace the long serving F2 in Army and Army Reserve mortar teams. |
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BALLARAT DRUG SEIZURES
ARABIAN SEA: HMAS Ballarat has celebrated a return to CTF-150 operations with two huge narcotics interdictions on the 'Hash Highway' out of Pakistan's Makran Coast worth $170 million. |
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TGT8 DIRECT FIRE WEAPONS
IRAQ: VIDEO - Task Group Taji 8 train Iraqi 55th Brigade jundies on the M2QCB and M19 AGL at Besmaya near Baghdad. |
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THE MIGHTY KRAIT
BOOK REVIEW: A historical account of the famous Australian Special Operation against Singapore Harbour in 1943 and the little ship that made the mission happen. |
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RNZN MODERNISATION
NEW ZEALAND: The Royal New Zealand Navy's next generation AOR Aotearoa will transform the Kiwi's maritime reach and operational endurance. |
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ASSAULT BREACHING & BRIDGING
USA: The Army is energetically exploring the capabilities available for its new Under Armour Assault Breaching and Bridging equipment including robotics. |
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RAAF F-35 LIVE WEAPONS TESTS
WILLIAMTOWN: The RAAF's new F-35A Lightnings have been flying in exercises and are about to fire their weapons systems for the first time in Australia. |
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AUSSIE COMMANDOS IN PHILIPPINES
PHILIPPINES: Australian Special Operations experts are working with their Philippine NAVSOG and Scout Ranger counterparts at Fort Magsaysay under Balikatan 19. |
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GROWLER FLEET ACHIEVES IOC
AMBERLEY: The RAAF's EA-18G Growler based Airborne Electronic Attack capability has reached Initial Operational Capability on schedule. |
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3RAR MALAYSIA VIDEO
MALAYSIA: VIDEO - 3RAR conducted training in the Malay jungle with the Malaysian Army during Indo Pacifica Endeavour 2019. |
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C-130J HERC SATCOMM UPGRADE EXPANDED
RICHMOND NSW: The RAAF is expanding its upgrade of Hercules satellite communications systems to include half the C-130J-30 fleet. |
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ADF PROTECTED AMPHIBIOUS VEHICLE
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Army is seeking an armoured amphibious vehicle to broaden the scale and scope of its amphibious capability. |
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TIGER ARH WITHDRAWAL CONFIRMED
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Army's Tiger Armed Reconnaissance Helicopters near future retirement has finally been confirmed. |
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MRH-90 MINIGUN & OPERATIONAL MODIFICATIONS
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Army's MRH-90 Tactical Transport Helicopters have been upgunned and given uprated winches for combat operations. |
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MARINE ROTATIONAL FORCE - DARWIN 2019
NORTHERN TERRITORY: The eighth rotation of US Marines has deployed into Darwin ahead of six months of training with the Australian Defence Force. |
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KIWIS INTRODUCE NEW FC530 ASSAULT BOAT
NEW ZEALAND: The New Zealand Army is introducing new FC530 Zodiac inflatable assault boats during an OT&E activities at 2 Engineer Regiment. |
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RAAF ACQUIRES 11 HISTORIC WARBIRDS
TEMORA: The RAAF has acquired 11 flying historic warbirds to ensure their preservation by funding their upkeep at the Temora Aviation Museum. |
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7RAR ERMG SHOOT SLIDESHOW
CULTANA: A multi image slideshow of the 7RAR DFSW Basic Course culminating Extended Range Machine Gun live fire event at Cultana Training Area in SA. |
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AIR 6000/3 TOWED MISSILE DECOYS
AUSTRALIA: The Government has confirmed funding for the RAAF's next generation towed missile decoys for its Rhino, Growler and F-35A Lightning fleets. |
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FEW CLUES FOR RAAF AFTER JAPANESE JSF LOSS
AUSTRALIA: The RAAF has little to go on in the wake of the loss of the Japanese F-35A on Tuesday until the flight data recorders and wreckage is recovered. |
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AUSTRALIAN M113A1 FAMILY OF VEHICLES
BOOK REVIEW: The Military Briefs latest publication is a forensic exploration of Aussie Army M113A1 APCs in service between 1972 and 2013. |
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ARMY UNMANNED GROUND VEHICLES
GREENBANK QLD: The Army is currently conducting analysis on the Australian made MAPS autonomous Unmanned Ground Vehicle in a series of trials. |
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TASK GROUP TAJI IX
BRISBANE: Task Group Taji IX has completed its mission preparation training ahead of deploying to Iraq to continue the Build Partner Capacity mission. |
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POSEIDON 08 MODIFICATIONS COMPLETE
USA: The RAAF's eighth P-8A Posiedon has entered validation and verification flight testing after being modified with airframe monitoring sensors and the software upgrade package. |
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TWO MORE F-35As ARRIVE
WILLIAMTOWN NSW: The RAAF's fleet of F-35A Lightnings in Australia has doubled to four with two additional Lightnings flying in to RAAF Williamtown. |
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SUPACAT SOV COMMANDO OPERATIONAL SOON
HOLSWORTHY: Special Operations Command Australia's Supacat SOV-Commando vehicles are undergoing a final upgrade and should enter service within weeks. |
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FIRST BOXER INBOUND
GERMANY: The first Block 1 European production Boxer armoured vehicle is about to be delivered to the Australian Army after rolling off the production line. |
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ENGINE MAKER BANKRUPTCY THREATENS HAWKEI
AUSTRALIA: The Hawkei PMV-L's engine manufacturer has entered bankruptcy creating uncertainty as the Aussie vehicle is about to enter full rate production. |
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RAN TRIALS NEW MULTICAM UNIFORM
CORAL SEA: The RAN has commenced trials of a new Maritime Multicam Pattern Uniform ahead of an intended replacement of the inservice Disruptive Pattern Naval Uniform. |
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BUDGET POINTS TO END OF IRAQ AFGHAN OPS
CANBERRA: The 2019/20 Defence budget allocations deliver more dollars, but point to major reductions in ongoing operations in Iraq and Afghanistan. |
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FALCON 7X JETS FOR RAAF
CANBERRA: The first RAAF Falcon 7X VIP transport aircraft will enter service with 34 Squadron mid year after completing its fitout. |
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EF-88C CARBINE & AN/PEQ-16B MIMPIM
GLOBAL: The EF-88C 'Commander' short barrel Enhanced Austeyr and the AN/PEQ-16B MIMPIM night aiming device are now in service on Operations Okra and Highroad. |
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AASAM19 COMBAT SHOOTING COMP
PUCKAPUNYAL VIC: Twenty two Australian and international combat shooting teams are winding up competition in the 2019 Australian Army Skill at Arms Meeting (AASAM). |
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SMArt 155 SENSOR FUSED MUNITION ENTERS SERVICE
SHOALWATER BAY: The Army has introduced the Rheinmetall Deihl SMArt 155 Sensor Fused Munition for precision anti armour strikes. |
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HMAS BRISBANE READINESS EVALUATION
SYDNEY: HMAS Brisbane, the RAN's second Hobart class Guided Missile Destroyer is about to start readiness evaluations ahead of operations. |
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SECOND MQ-4C TRITON UAS CONTRACTED
AUSTRALIA: The Dept of Defence has signed up for the second of at least six MQ-4C Triton Broad Area Maritime Surveillance UAS. |
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PROTECTED AMPHIBIOUS VEHICLE ACQUISITION
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Army is looking for a Protected Amphibious Vehicle to convey combat elements ashore from the RAN's Amphibious Assault Ships. |
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BOXER CRV ACQUISTION UNDERWAY
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Army is putting all the pieces in place ahead of the arrival of the Boxer Combat Reconnaissance Vehicle in April 2019. |
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ARMY SURFACE TO AIR MISSILES CONFIRMED
CANBERRA: The Government has confirmed the acquistion of the Raytheon/Kongsberg/CEA Technologies Enhanced National Advanced Surface to Air Missile System (NASAMS). |
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BRITS BUY E-7 WEDGETAIL
UNITED KINGDOM: The RAF will acquire the E-7 Wedgetail in similar configuration to the Australian AEW&C system fitout with Australian industrial support. |
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MANUS ISLAND NAVAL BASE UPGRADE
PAPUA NEW GUINEA: Australia will upgrade the PNGDF's Lombrum Naval Base on Manus Island under a $5 million bilateral agreement with PNG. |
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TE MANA ENTERS UPGRADE IN CANADA
CANADA: The second New Zealand Anzac class Guided Missile Frigate has commenced its upgrade at a Canadian specialist shipyard. |
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RAAF MC-55A PEREGRINE ACQUISITION CONFIRMED
CANBERRA: The Government has disclosed an acquisition of high end Electronic Warfare aircraft to augment ADF digital domain dominance. |
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1AR UAS & UAS ISR EXPERIMENTS
CULTANA SA: The 1st Armoured Regiment is experimenting with a SRV mounted ISR screen ahead of main force MBT elements during Predator's Walk. |
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IRAQ MISSION TO CONTINUE
TAJI IRAQ: The Australian Government has confirmed that the Build Partner Capacity mission in Iraq will continue in the wake of the defeat of Islamic State. |
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AMRAAM FOR AUSTRALIAN ARMY
USA: The US Government has approved a large acquisition of AMRAAM missiles for the Australian Army's future NASAMS2 missile system. |
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WEST PAPUA INSURGENCY REVIVES
INDONESIAN PAPUA: The Free Papua Movement insurgency against Indonesia has reappeared with a series of successful attacks against the TNI. |
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BALLARAT SEIZES MORE HASH
GULF OF OMAN: HMAS Ballarat has completed a sixth narcotics interdiction in the Middle East Region bringing her total drug haul to $750 million. |
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A&NZD 105 MARCH EDITION
AUSTRALIA: Australian & NZ Defender No 105 March 2019 available for download here. |
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TIME TO RECOGNISE COALITION ROLE IN ISLAMIC STATE'S DEFEAT
EDITORIAL: It is way beyond time time to recognise the overwhelming role played by the US led CJTF-OIR, including our own modern Anzacs, in ridding the earth of Abu Bakr Baghdadi's barbarism. |
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US ARMY EMBEDS WITH 2/1RNZIR
NEW ZEALAND: The US Army has partnered 2/1RNZIR in a series of bilateral training activities in the South Island designed to improve interoperability. |
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DATE ENDS MUSORIAN THREAT
AUSTRALIA: The Army has adopted the Decisive Action Training Environment (DATE) to reformat enemy forces for a multi domain combat environment. |
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RAN BELL 429 RETIREMENT
AVALON VIC: The RAN is on the verge of retiring its final leased Bell 429 helicopter now that the HATS training program has matured. |
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FRENCH SUBMARINE CONTRACT SIGNED
CANBERRA: Despite withering criticism, the Australian Government has signed off on the contracts for the far future diesel electric Attack class concept submarine. |
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UPGRADED P-8A POSEIDONS FOR RAAF & RNZAF
EDINBURGH: The RAAF and RNZAF will both receive Increment III Block I spec P-8A Poseidons with the RAAF's first upgraded MMMA due soon. |
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A&NZD 105 PRINT IS LATE
AUSTRALIA: Our March edition Australian & NZ Defender print edition is late. We expect it to hit the shelves late next week (March 8). We have changed distributor and have experienced a few issues. |
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AUSTRALIA JOINS BOEING BATS UCAV PROJECT
AVALON VIC: Australia is funding the development of a stealthy fast jet UCAV to fly in swarms on combat missions with our piloted combat aircraft. |
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MQ-9 REAPER OUTBACK CONSORTIUM FINALISED
AVALON VIC: Team Reaper Australia have announced the finalised consortium that will deliver the RAAF's near future Armed Remotely Piloted Aircraft fleet. |
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1BDE EF-88 ROLLOUT
NT & SA: 1 Brigade is almost fully rearmed with the next generation EF-88M Modular Weapon System after commencing the transition in October. |
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RAAF DEPLOYS BIG PACKAGE TO GUAM
GUAM: The RAAF has deployed a large package of aircraft to Andersen Air Force Base in Guam for Ex Cope North 19 with the USAF, US Navy and Japanese JASDF. |
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FIRST TWO HORNETS TO CANADA
CANADA: The RAAF has successfully transferred the first two of its retiring F/A-18HUG 'classic' Hornets to the Royal Canadian Air Force. |
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RAAF ENDS WEDGETAIL MISSIONS AGAINST ISLAMIC STATE
MIDDLE EAST: The RAAF has flown its final E-7A Airborne Early Warning and Control operations in the air war against Islamic State after almost four and a half years of intense Offensive Air Operations. |
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ISLAMIC STATE CALIPHATE ENDS
SYRIA MERV: The psychopathic Islamic State 'caliphate' is over with the last square kilometer of the mad dream about to fall to Coalition backed Syrian militias. |
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ADF ATTEMPTS TO COVER UP RADICAL AGENDA
CANBERRA: The Australian newspaper is reporting that the ADF has classified a feminist cultural advisor's report in an attempted COVER UP of the CDF's wholesale adoption of radical gender and identity theory. |
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FIRST GUARDIAN PB IN SERVICE
PAPUA NEW GUINEA: The first of 21 new Guardian class Patrol Boats to be gifted by Australia to the Pacific Islands has entered service with the PNGDF . |
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NO STOPPING FRENCH SUBMARINES NOW
CANBERRA: The RAN's scarily expensive next generation submarine is now unstoppable after the Government signed the last contractual arrangement with France. |
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CANADA HORNET TRANSFER APPROACHES
WILLIAMTOWN: The RAAF is preparing to transfer the first of 25 HUG Hornets to Canada after all the paperwork has finally been approved and the contract signed. |
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ADVANCED F-35 TRAINING PROGRAMS
WILLIAMTOWN NSW: The RAAF is working up the F-35 Integrated Training Centre at Williamtown which will employ the most advanced simulators and simulated training programs available. |
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MRH-90s REPLACE SPECIAL OPS BLACK HAWKS
HOLSWORTHY NSW: Special Operations Command has replaced some Black Hawks with MRH-90 helicopters after years of resisting the new European helicopters. |
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HMAS ARUNTA AMCAP TRIALS
HENDERSON: HMAS Arunta has commenced the work up to sea trials to validate the Anzac Midlife Capability Assurance Program sensor, communications and habitability upgrades. |
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US ARMY ANALYSIS
WEST POINT: A very sobering analysis from the Modern War Institute at West Point detailing the dangers of the Western World's dismissal of artillery in favour of airpower. |
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BALLARAT SEIZES MORE NARCOTICS
ARABIAN SEA: HMAS Ballarat has continued her run of successful counter narcotics operations with another massive seizure of heroin and hash in the Arabian Sea. |
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RAAF MOSUL AIRSTRIKE CLAIMS
CANBERRA: The ADF has confirmed that an RAAF F/A-18F did drop a PGM in Mosul but did so exactly where the Iraqis demanded and at a different time to the claimed civilian deaths. |
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ARMY IMPROVES PROTECTED VEHICLE ELECTRONIC CAPABILITIES
WOOMERA: The Army is working at improving the survivability and networking integration of its protected vehicle fleets under the PMICA program. |
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HUG HORNETS AT NELLIS
LAS VEGAS: The RAAF has returned to Nellis AFB near Las Vegas for Exercise Red Flag 19-01 after last years deployment and subsequent EA-18G Growler loss. |
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USAF AQM-37D LAUNCHES SAVED AWD CSSQT
CALIFORNIA: A short notice intervention by the USAF to fire supersonic target drones allowed HMAS Hobart to successfully complete her CSSQT sea trials in December. |
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SPARTANS REHOMED AT AMBERLEY
AMBERLEY QLD: The RAAF's fleet of C-27J Spartan Battlefield Airlifters are now flying from their new home at RAAF Base Amberley in southeastern Queensland. |
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RNZN TO ACQUIRE SEAEYE ROV
NEW ZEALAND: The RNZN has acquired the SAAB Seaeye Cougar XT Remotely Operated Vehicle to equip its next gen Hydrographic and Diving Support Vessel. |
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LIGHTNING II FLIGHT OPS COMMENCE
WILLIAMTOWN NSW: The RAAF has commenced flight operations with its two new F-35A Lightning II Joint Strike Fighters out of RAAF Williamtown near Newcastle. |
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AUTONOMOUS UNMANNED SUBMARINE WARFARE
USA: Artificial intelligence, autonomous operations and new naval drones are set to revolutionise Sub Surface Warfare long before the first of the RAN's next generation submarines is launched. |
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FUTURE VERTICAL LIFT
USA: The program to replace modern combat helicopters has commenced in earnest with the US Army funding two sensational next gen demonstrator aircraft. |
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READY TO STRIKE
BOOK REVIEW: An information packed history of the only Aussie Spitfire Squadron in the air over the Normandy beaches on D Day. |
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ARABIAN GULF EXERCISE
ARABIAN GULF: HMAS Ballarat participated in a major naval warfare exercise with the US Navy's Carrier Strike Group III and the French Marine Nationale in between MSO operations with CMF. |
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SECOND NZSAS VIDEO
NEW ZEALAND: VIDEO - The 1st New Zealand Special Air Service Regiment has released an extended version of its earlier video over the Xmas/New Year Holidays. |
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HMAS HOBART WEAPONS FIRING
CALIFORNIA USA: VIDEO - Video imagery of HMAS Hobart firing RIM-66 SM2, RIM-162 ESSM missiles and Mk 45 127mm gun during Combat Systems Sea Trials. |
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THIRD DRUG SEIZURE FOR BALLARAT
ARABIAN SEA: HMAS Ballarat has seized over $400 million worth of narcotics from terrorism affiliated smugglers in the Middle East in three weeks. |
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2OCU CELEBRATES FINAL HORNET OPS
WILLIAMTOWN: 2 Operational Conversion Unit has painted one of its twin stick 'classic' Hornets in tiger stripes to honour its final year flying the F/A-18. |
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RETIRED KIOWA HELO AUCTION
AVALON VIC: The last of the ADF's long serving B206B Kiowa Light Observation Helicopters will be auctioned off in February with online bids closing in early March. |
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RESERVE DIGGERS TRAIN IN BRUNEI
BRUNEI: Diggers from the Qld based 11th Brigade and the WA based 13th Brigade have deployed to Brunei for Ex Mallee Bull while deployed with Rifle Company Butterworth. |
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FPE 10 SECURITY OPS VIDEO
AFGHANISTAN: VIDEO - Force Protection Element 10 6RAR security operations in Kabul and Qargha. |
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KILCULLEN ANALYSES SYRIA WITHDRAWAL
ANALYSIS: Senior Australian Counter Insurgency expert David Kilcullen has published an expanded analysis on the shock US withdrawal from Syria announcement. |
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SYRIAN WITHDRAWAL ADF IMPLICATIONS
OPINION: The US President's shock announcement of a withdrawal of all ground combat elements from Syria has sent shockwaves through the CJTF-OIR partnership against Islamic State. |
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BALLARAT COMMENCES MER OPS
ARABIAN GULF: The Anzac class frigate HMAS Ballarat has completed her first patrol with Combined Maritime Forces CTF-152 in the North Arabian Gulf. |
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RAN NAMES SEA 1000 SUBMARINES
CANBERRA: The RAN has announced the naming of its next generation submarines before the final contractual arrangements have been settled, further undermining the financial and technical negotiations. |
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FIRST F-35A LIGHTNINGS ARRIVE
WILLIAMTOWN NSW: The first two of an eventual 72 F-35A Lightning II Joint Strike Fighters have arrived in Australia to begin the RAAF's 5th Generation conversion in earnest. |
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TASK GROUP TAJI VIII COMMENCES OPS
TAJI IRAQ: The eighth rotation of the Anzac Build Partner Capacity element deployed to Iraq has commenced training Iraqi Federal Security Forces under Op Okra. |
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ANAO JSF REPORT REVEALS UNKNOWN COSTS
CANBERRA: The Australian National Audit Office has released its Joint Strike Fighter - Introduction into Service and Sustainment report which reveals a few surprises. |
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AUSTRALIAN & NZ DEFENDER ISSUE NO 104
The Summer edition of Australian & NZ Defender magazine is available for online reading here. |
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AFP TARGETS COMBAT VETS
CANBERRA: The Australian Federal Police have officially opened a criminal investigation into Australian combat veterans accused of war crimes in Afghanistan. |
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ADF RECRUITING DISCRIMINATES AGAINST AUSTRALIANS
AUSTRALIA: The ADF's recruiting process has been completely corrupted by diversity and gender activists, deliberately discriminating against the type of Australians who made the ADF legendary. |
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AOR NUSHIP SUPPLY LAUNCHED
SPAIN: The first of two RAN next generation Supply class Auxiliary Oiler Replenishment tankers has been launched in Spain. |
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NZDF MARS-L NOW STANDARD ISSUE RIFLE
NEW ZEALAND: The New Zealand Army has recognised its new MARS-L Assault Rifle as the standard issue small arm after the roll out reached critical mass. |
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FOR VALOUR
BOOK REVIEW: FOR VALOUR - Australians Awarded the Victoria Cross, a compilation of all 100 Australian VC winners from the Boer War’s Captain Neville Howse in 1900 through to Commando Cam Baird in Afghanistan in 2013. |
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RAAF AIR DEFENCE OF APEC
PAPUA NEW GUINEA: Photo feature. The RAAF delivered an integrated air defence including armed F/A-18Fs for the APEC Leaders Summit in Port Moresby PNG. |
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ARMY UPGRADES .338LM SNIPER RIFLES
AUSTRALIA: The Army is upgrading its 8.58 x 70mm Sniper Systems using advanced new Australian developed and manufactured ballistic techologies. |
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C-130J EXTERNAL FUEL TANK TRIAL
RICHMOND NSW: The RAAF has upgraded a C-130J Hercules with external fuel tanks ahead of a major trial to test the new configuration's effectiveness. |
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RAAF REAPER BUY IMMINENT
CANBERRA: The Government has confirmed the acquisition of a fleet of MQ-9 'Reaper' armed Remotely Piloted Aircraft for the RAAF today. |
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USAF KC-135R TANKER DAMAGED IN SYDNEY
SYDNEY: A USAF KC-135R aerial refuelling tanker was damaged during a ground movement at Sydney's Kingsford Smith International Airport on Tuesday. |
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TGT7 FPC INTEGRATED INTO BASE DEFENCE
IRAQ: Photo feature. Task Group Taji's 6RAR led Force Protection Company is part of the Taji Military Complex's integrated security plan. |
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1AR ABRAMS IRON FIST
CULTANA SA: Photo feature of 1st Armoured Regiment M1A1 SA Abrams Main Battle Tanks prowling the Cultana Training Area in South Australia. |
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RAAF F/A-18F's FORWARD DEPLOY FOR APEC
TOWNSVILLE: RAAF F/A-18F Rhinos have forward deployed to north Qld to provide armed air defence of Port Moresby during APEC 18 Leader's Summit. |
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THE LOST BATTALIONS
BOOK REVIEW: Tom Gilling's sobering history of the 2nd AIF battalions thrown into Java to help save the Dutch from the Japanese and their own incompetance. |
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ADF IN PORT MORESBY FOR APEC
PAPUA NEW GUINEA: The ADF's Joint Task Force 658 is deploying into Port Moresby to assist the PNG led Joint Security Task Force during the APEC Leader's Meeting. |
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HOBART DEMONSTRATES FIRST EVER SYSTEMS FUSION WITH USN
CALIFORNIA: The new AWD HMAS Hobart has successfully demonstrated the first ever sensor shooter systems fusion between a US Navy and allied warship. |
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MASSIVE AUSTAL CYBER HACK
WESTERN AUSTRALIA: Australian advanced warship builder Austal has suffered a massive data theft from a criminal group seeking ransom. |
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HMAS BRISBANE COMMENCES WORK UP
SYDNEY: The RAN's second Hobart class Air Warfare Destroyer HMAS Brisbane has commenced its work up towards operational employment. |
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JSF DIVISION HEAD STATEMENT
AUSTRALIA: The RAAF officer in charge of the F-35A JSF Division has released a statement ahead of the arrival of the type in Australia. |
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SASR TRAIN PNGDF FOR APEC
TOWNSVILLE: The SASR has trained PNG Defence Force elements in Counter Terrorist response tactics at Townsville ahead of the APEC meeting in Port Moresby. |
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NEW M-252A1 81mm MORTAR
AUSTRALIA: The Army is about to commence the introduction into service of the next generation M-252A1 81mm Mortar System. |
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TASK GROUP TAJI FIRES 120 & 60mm MORTARS
IRAQ: VIDEO - Task Group Taji 7 Training Team Diggers fire M120 120mm and M224 60mm mortars during training for the Iraqi Army. |
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KC-30A MRTT CERTIFIED TO REFUEL F-22A RAPTOR
CALIFORNIA USA: The RAAF's KC-30A MRTT tankers have been approved to refuel the USAF's top of the line F-22A Raptor Air Dominance Fighters. |
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MAYBE ONLY 8 NOT 12 NEXT GEN SUBS
AUSTRALIA: The senior RAN Future Submarine Program officer sheds light on some surprising facts after problems during the painful contractual negotiations with the French. |
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CV90 Mk IV INFANTRY FIGHTING VEHICLE
AUSTRALIA: While BAE Systems Australia has not officially tendered for Land 400 Phase 3 yet, any offering would likely be based on the CV90 Mark IV. |
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POSEIDON FLEET EXPANDS AND ASSUMES ASW MISSION
EDINBURGH SA: The RAAF's P-8A Poseidon MMA fleet has expanded and is about to take on the Anti Submarine Warfare mission from the AP-3C Orion. |
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NAVY STANDS UP MTUAS SQUADRON
NOWRA NSW: The RAN has commissioned a new Maritime Tactical Unmanned Aerial System Squadron to pioneer the introduction of the capability. |
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F-35A INTRODUCTION SCHEDULE
ARIZONA USA: EXCLUSIVE FEATURE - The RAAF's planned F-35A Lightning II introduction into service schedule with new release in flight imagery. |
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TIGER ARH FOCFT MOMENTUM
ARAFURA SEA: Tiger Armed Reconnaissance Helicopters have conducted a seven week First of Class Flight Trial on HMAS Canberra. |
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1OTH F-35A LIGHTNING II IN SERVICE
ARIZONA USA: The tenth RAAF F-35A Lightning II is flying at Luke Air Force Base in Arizona with the 61st Fighter Squadron. |
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MRF-D18 MARINES RETURN HOME
DARWIN: Marine Rotational Force - Darwin 2018 has completed its six month deployment to Australia and returned to its home bases. |
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BALLARAT NEXT ON MANITOU
WESTERN AUSTRALIA: HMAS Ballarat will deploy to the Middle East Region late this month under Op Manitou renewing RAN MSO in the area. |
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KEOGH REORG COMPLETE
AUSTRALIA: FEATURE - The Plan Keogh reorg is just about complete with three additional ASLAV Squadrons and vehicle transfers to the motorised and mechanised infantry battalions. |
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AUSTRALIA'S FIRST SPIES
BOOK REVIEW: John Fahey's Australia's First Spies tells a previously untold story of Australian covert intelligence operations in the World Wars. |
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MELBOURNE JOINS OP ARGOS
EAST CHINA SEA: HMAS Melbourne has joined North Korea sanctions evasion monitoring operations augmenting the two AP-3C Orions already tasked . |
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ALL F-35 FLIGHT OPS SUSPENDED
USA: Global F-35 Lightning II operations have been suspended while every aircraft is inspected to the wake of the first in flight loss of the aircraft. |
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RNZAF T-6C TEXAN CRASH
NEW ZEALAND: An RNZAF T-6C Texan has been extensively damaged during a training mission mechanical failure at RNZAF O'hakea. |
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IDF ATTACKS IN AFGHANISTAN
AFGHANISTAN: The ADF has confirmed two indirect fire attacks on the Qargha base near Kabul after media claims of Ministerial misinformation about the attacks. |
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SPECIAL OPERATIONS HELICOPTER ACQUISTION
CANBERRA: Special Operations Command - Australia's requirement for a Special Operations Aviation Support light helicopter is moving forward with an offical RFI release. |
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ANZAC FRIGATE AMCAP UPGRADE
HENDERSON WA: The Royal Australian Navy has commenced the Anzac Midlife Capability Assurance Program upgrade for its FFH Guided Missile Frigates. |
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REGIONAL FORCE SURVEILLANCE GROUP OPERATIONAL
DARWIN: All three of the Army's specialist Regional Force Surveillance Units have been formally amalgamated within the new Regional Force Surveillance Group. |
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FUTURE SUBMARINE PROJECT PROBLEMS
AUSTRALIA: The RAN's Future Submarine Project faces extreme issues as the French delay on technology transfer and the pump jet propulsion is now in doubt. |
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NZSAS CT VIDEO
NEW ZEALAND: VIDEO - An NZ Special Operations Group video of 1st New Zealand Special Air Service Regt operators running Special Recovery drills at Ardmore Battle Training Facility. |
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HERCULES TO ABRAMS REFUEL
PORT AUGUSTA SA: The ADF has successfully used a C-130J Hercules to refuel a 1st Armoured Regiment M1A1 Abrams in an unconventional trial. |
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TGT7 FORCE PROTECTION COMPANY LIVE FIRE
TAJI IRAQ: Pictorial of a Task Group Taji VII Force Protection Company combined live fire event with the US Army's Bandit Troop 3rd Cavalry Regiment at Taji MC. |
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HMAS HOBART ON WAY TO USA
HAWAII USA: The RAN's first Air Warfare Destroyer is steaming to California to complete combat systems trials ahead of IOC declaration. |
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NZ EX SARI BAIR
WAIOURU NZ: The combat manoeuvre elements of the 1st New Zealand Brigade is busy conducting Exercise Sari Bair at Waiouru Military Training Area. |
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RAAF F-35A LIGHTNING DEVELOPMENTS
ARIZONA USA: The RAAF's fleet of F-35A Lightning Joint Strike Fighters is expanding with nine aircraft flying amidst delays and flight testing suspensions. |
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ADF EXPANDS PACIFIC PARTNERSHIPS
PACIFIC ISLANDS: The Australia is negotiating to build a joint base in PNG and will fund a HADR base in Fiji under ambitious regional engagement policies. |
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.338 LWMMG MACHINE GUN
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Defence Force has been offered the next generation 8.6 x 63.3mm Light Weight Medium Machine Gun with sensational hitting power. |
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HAWKEI PMV-L ANAO REPORT
CANBERRA: The Australian National Audit Office has released a mixed report into the acquisition of the Hawkei Protected Mobility Vehicle - Light. |
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TWO NEW LAND 121 HX TRUCKS ENTER SERVICE
PUCKAPUNYAL VIC: The Army School of Transport has commenced training on the HX42M and HX81 RMMV HX Series 2 High Mobility Logistics System trucks. |
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AWD2 BRISBANE ARRIVES AT FLEET BASE EAST
SYDNEY: Nuship Brisbane, the second of the RAN's new Hobart class Air Warfare Destroyers has arrived at Fleet Base East in Sydney Harbour ahead of her commissioning. |
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MEPHISTO
BOOK REVIEW: The superb new history book on the Qld Museum's prized Great War A7V Panzer Mephisto is one of the best recent Anzac publication. |
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ARMY ORDERS CARL GUSTAV M4 MRWS
SWEDEN: Swedish arms manufacturer SAAB has disclosed that the Australian Army has ordered the new 84mm Carl Gustaf M4 Multi Role Weapons System. |
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COMBINED NZ EEZ COMPLIANCE OPS
SOUTH PACIFIC: The RNZN and the US Coast Guard have conducted a wide ranging fisheries compliance operation in New Zealand EEZ waters. |
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AJAX IFV TENDER FOR LAND 400-3
AUSTRALIA: General Dynamics Land Systems - Australia is offering an evolution of the Ajax IFV for the Land 400 Phase 3 Request for Tender. |
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KOREAN REDBACK IFV TENDER
AUSTRALIA: The AS21 Redback IFV, a variant of the K21 KNIFV, will be offered for Land 400 Phase 3 Request for Tender by South Korea's Hanwha Defense Systems. |
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NZ BEGINS SAS HUNTING INQUIRY
NEW ZEALAND: The New Zealand Government has commenced its own witch hunt of Afghanistan Special Operations veterans arising from activist allegations |
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THE ADF BRASS FIDDLES WHILE CHINA'S COLD WINDS BLOW OUR WAY
A&NZD Spring issue Editorial |
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AUSTRALIAN & NZ DEFENDER Issue No.103
A&NZD Spring Issue ready for reading. The downloadable PDF version link is on the contents page. |
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TWO KF41 LYNX IFVs DELIVERED
AUSTRALIA: Two Rheinmetall KF-41 Lynx Infantry Fighting Vehicles have been airlifted in Adelaide in the direct wake of the Land 400 Phase 3 Request for Tender |
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EOS R400S Mk 2 RWS FOR BOXER CRV
AUSTRALIA: The Australian made EOS R400S Mark 2 Remote Weapon Station will be fitted to the Land 400 Phase 2 Boxer Combat Reconnaissance Vehicles. |
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NEW ASSEGAI ARTY AMMO ARRIVES
BRISBANE: The first shipment of the new Rheinmetall Denel Munitions Assegai range of 155mm artillery projectiles has arrived ahead of integration trials. |
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RNZN ACQUIRES NEW VESSEL
NEW ZEALAND: The Royal New Zealand Navy is acquiring a new Dive and Hydrographic Support Vessel to replace its decommissioned Manawanui. |
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LAND 400 PHASE 3 IFV RFT
AUSTRALIA: The Government has officially released the Request for Tender for the next generation Infantry Fighting Vehicles under Project Land 400 Phase 3. |
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DETAILS ON ADF SHOTGUN ATTACHMENT
AUSTRALIA: Some details on the ADF funded Modular Shotgun System Attachment being developed in Australia have emerged from DefendTex. |
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6RAR REPLACES 3RAR IN AFGHANISTAN
AFGHANISTAN: 6RAR Diggers deployed with Force Protection Element 10 have assumed responsibility for Australian security in Afghanistan from Charlie Coy 3RAR. |
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TIGER TRIALS RECOMMENCE ON AAS AMPHIBS
SYDNEY: Three 1st Aviation Regiment Tiger ARH helicopters have embarked on HMAS Canberra at Fleet Base East for First of Class Flight Trials. |
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6RAR TAKES DOG CUP 2018
SINGLETON: 6RAR has won the 2018 Duke of Gloucester Cup in a competion marked by outstanding teams from all seven RAR battalions. |
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TAJI QRF ACTION
TAJI MC IRAQ: 6RAR Diggers from Task Group Taji 7 Force Protection Coy conduct Quick Reaction Force drills with their US Army partners at Taji MC near Baghdad. |
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RAAF SPECIAL MISSIONS AT PB18
BATCHELOR NT: The RAAF's 4 Squadron B Flight Combat Control Team demonstrated Landing Zone Recon/Landing Zone Control activities during Ex Pitch Black 2018. |
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PITCH BLACK SLIDE SHOW
DARWIN NT: A slideshow of the different aircraft flying with the RAAF led multinational Expeditionary Air Wing flying out of RAAF Darwin during Ex Pitch Black 2018. |
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AN AUSTRALIAN BAND OF BROTHERS
BOOK REVIEW: Mark Johnston's excellent history of D 'Don' Company 2nd/43rd Battalion in the North African and Pacific Campaigns of WW2. |
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CHINESE NAVY ALLOWED IN EX KAKADU
TOP END NT: In a bizarre reward for aggressive behavior towards the RAN, the Chinese PLA-Navy will participate in Ex Kakadu 2018 in waters off Darwin. |
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PB18 INFLATABLE THREAT SIMULATIONS
TOP END NT: A range of inflatable threat simulated weapons systems and targets are being employed on Exercise Pitch Black 2018. |
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DETAILS OF RAN COCAINE SEIZURE
CORAL SEA NSW: Details of the RAN involvement in the interception and seizure of a massive cocaine smuggling shipment have emerged. |
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EX PITCH BLACK UNDERWAY
NORTHERN TERRITORY: Exercise Pitch Black 2018, the largest ever in the series, is underway in the Northern Territory with up to 140 aircraft involved in the activities. |
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AFGHAN INSURGENTS SUFFER HEAVY CASUALTIES
AFGHANISTAN: Afghan and Coalition forces have inflicted catastrophic casualties on the Taliban and Islamic State in Khourisan since the ceasefire expired on June 30. |
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USN & USMC HELOS OPERATING OFF ADELAIDE
HAWAII: The full suite of US Navy and US Marine Corps helicopters were certified to operate off the Amphibious Assault Ship HMAS Adelaide during RIMPAC 18. |
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RAN ACCEPTS AWD2 BRISBANE
OSBORNE SA: The Royal Australian Navy has accepted its second Hobart class Air Warfare Destroyer Nuship Brisbane at a ceremony in Adelaide. |
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FUTURE FRIGATE SENSORS DETAILS
AUSTRALIA: The next generation Hunter class frigates will be fitted with the most advanced sensors for naval warfighting scenarios. |
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FUTURE FRIGATE ARMAMENT DETAILS
AUSTRALIA: The next generation Hunter class frigates will be well armed but not capable of Ballistic Missile Defence as the Minister and PM claimed. |
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RAAF P-8A FIRES FIRST HARPOON MISSILE
HAWAII: An RAAF P-8A Poseidon MMA has fired the first Harpoon Anti Ship Missile from the type off Hawaii during RIMPAC 18's sinking exercise of ex USS Racine. |
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RNZN DIVERS AT RIMPAC
CALIFORNIA: Royal New Zealand Navy Clearance Divers are conducting Mine Countermeasures activities within the California component of Exercise RIMPAC 18. |
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RAN FIRES RIM-162 & RIM-66 AT RIMPAC
HAWAII: Australian warships have fired live surface to air missiles at unmanned aerial targets during live fire events off Hawaii during Exercise RIMPAC 18. |
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BARNEY GREATREX
BOOK REVIEW: Michael Veitch's history of an Australian airmen shot down over France who finds himself in the French Resistance. |
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USMC AAV-7PA1s EMBARK ADELAIDE
HAWAII: The Australian Amphibious Assault Ship HMAS Adelaide has embarked USMC 3rd Marine Regt AAV-7PA1 AAVs off Hawaii as part of Ex RIMPAC 18. |
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RIMPAC SINK EXERCISE
HAWAII: VIDEO - An RAAF P-8A Poseidon launching a Harpoon Block II assists US and Japanese units sink the former USS Racine off Hawaii. |
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1ST IMAGES OF SOCOMD HK416
PHILIPPINES: The first images of Australian Commandos employing the HK416 carbine have emerged from Exercise Balikatan in the Philippines. |
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ADF BLACK HAWK ADVISORY ROLE IN AFGHANISTAN
AUSTRALIA: Australia will double its commitment to TAAC-Air in Afghanistan with technical and pilot advisors for the growing Afghan UH-60A Black Hawk fleet. |
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ADF ADVISORY ROLE IN IRAQ
BRUSSELS: Australia will contribute to the new NATO led institutional reinforcement mission in Iraq according to a NATO statement issued in Brussels. |
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RNZAF CONFIRMS P-8A POSEIDON AQUISITION
NEW ZEALAND: The New Zealand Government has confirmed it will acquire the P-8A Poseidon Multi Mission Aircraft to replace the RNZAF's P-3K2 Orions. |
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RIM-162 ESSM BLOCK II TEST FIRE
CALIFORNIA USA: The RAN's upgrade is looking good after successful live fire testing of the RIM-162 Evolved Sea Sparrow Missile Block II. |
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AUST SF FIGHT ISK IN AFGHANISTAN
AFGHANISTAN: Australian SF Operators are actively fighting Islamic State in Khouristan with US SOF Teams in the Achin District of Nangarhar Afghanistan. |
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AQS-24B MINEHUNTING SYSTEM IN AUSTRALIA
JERVIS BAY: Northrop Grumman has chosen the RAN's Mine Countermeasures showcase Ex Autonomous Warrior 18 to demonstrate the upgraded AQS-24B. |
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EX HAMEL EXTENDED SLIDE SHOW
SHOALWATER BAY: Exercise Hamel 18 saw elements from the Australian 7th, 5th, 8th and 3rd Brigades and the Indiana National Guard battle it out at SWBTA. |
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7 BRIGADE ROTATES AS READY BRIGADE
BRISBANE: The 7th Brigade has rotated as Ready Brigade, with the 8/9RAR led Battle Group Ram as the Ready Battle Group for contingency deployment. |
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TYPE 26 WINS FUTURE FRIGATE
CANBERRA: The RAN's Future Frigate will be the cutting edge British Type 26. We profile the new platform with a full technical overview of the ship. |
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SIX MQ-4C TRITON UAS FOR RAAF
CANBERRA: The Government has confirmed the acquisition of six MQ-4C Triton Broad Area Maritime Surveillance UAS for the RAAF. |
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SPECIAL ELECTRONIC MISSIONS AIRCRAFT ACQUISITION
USA: The US Government has contracted for two additional G550 based Special Electronic Missions Aircraft almost certainly for Australia. |
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ADF FUNDS MODULAR SHOTGUN ATTACHMENT
CANBERRA: The ADF has funded the local development of a Modular Shotgun Attachment for the inservice EF-88M Modular Weapons System. |
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ADF TURNS ON AFGHANISTAN VETS
THE HAIG EU: The IGADF is likely to prosecute Australian veterans for war crimes, and has referred the case to the foreign anti Australian International Criminal Court. |
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WARRAMUNGA COMPLETES EXTENDED TOUR
ARABIAN SEA: HMAS Warramunga has completed her extremely successful seven and a half month tour of operations with Combined Maritime Operations. |
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ARMY ACQUIRES UNMANNED GROUND VEHICLES
QUEENSLAND: The Army will acquire four more Australian developed MAPS Unmanned Ground Vehicle for a 12 month user trials program of the cutting edge technology. |
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NEW C-130J FUSELAGE TRAINER
RICHMOND NSW: The RAAF has acquired a new C-130J Fuselage Trainer to allow realistic hands on cargo bay and loading training for its C-130J Loadmasters and airload personnel. |
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NEW COLLINS CLASS SSG SONARS
AUSTRALIA: The RAN's fleet of Collins class submarines will be upgraded with the Thales Modular Cylindrical Array sonar to maintain regional combat overmatch. |
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CAMPBELL'S FEMINISATION OF INFANTRY A FAILURE
AUSTRALIA: Lt General Campbell's plan to feminise infantry battalions is a expensive flop with an 85 percent failure rate and massive wastage of Army training resources. |
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WARRAMUNGA SEIZES 5940KG OF HASH
ARABIAN SEA: HMAS Warramunga continues her sensationally successful counter narcotics operations in the Middle East grabbing another five tonne of terrorism funding drugs. |
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SECOND GEN BUSHMASTER PMV
AUSTRALIA: Thales new Bushmaster MR6 PMV is a digitally advanced evolution of the Bushmaster PMV in service with the Australian Army. |
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BOXER CRV SPIKE LRII MISSILES
CANBERRA: The Australian Army's next generation Boxer CRV will be armed with a double launcher carrying the Israeli Spike LRII precision guided missiles. |
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MRF-D18 OSPREYS DEPLOY TO DARWIN
DARWIN NT: The Marine Rotational Force - Darwin 2018's eight MV-22B Ospreys arrived in Darwin and commenced flight operations in support of the Marine Air Ground Task Force. |
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KIWI & UK SAS BUSHMASTER PICS
NEW ZEALAND/IRAQ: The first imagery of New Zealand Special Air Service Group Bushmaster PMVs and UK Special Forces Escapade Bushmaster PMVs in Iraq. |
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AUSTRALIAN & NZ DEFENDER MAGAZINE NO: 102
AUSTRALIA: Our Winter edition, Australian & NZ Defender No 102 is out now. Great stories and pics. Available now as an HTML flipper with a PDF download link on the contents page. |
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RNZAF HERC RETURNS TO MER OPS
MIDDLE EAST: An RNZAF C-130H(NZ) Hercules is operating with the RAAF Air Mobility Task Group from AMAB in the UAE in support of CJTF-Operation Inherent Resolve in Iraq. |
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TEMPORARY HALT TO OP OKRA KC-30A OPS
MIDDLE EAST: The RAAF Air Task Group has started a temporary pause in KC-30A MRTT Air Refuelling Ops in support of CJTF-Operation Inherent Resolve over Iraq and Syria. |
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CHINA EXCLUDED FROM RIMPAC 18
HAWAII: The Chinese Peoples Liberation Army - Navy will be excluded from the multinational naval mega exercise RIMPAC 18 in response to Chinese actions in the South China Sea. |
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SIXTH F-35A JOINS FLEET AT LUKE
ARIZONA USA: The RAAF's sixth F-35A Lightning II fighter has commenced flying with the International Pilot Training Centre at Luke AFB. |
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WARRAMUNGA'S 11TH & 12TH SEIZURES
ARABIAN SEA: HMAS Warramunga has continued her successful Counter Narcotics Ops seizing another 6200kg of hashish resin in the Arabian Sea. |
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SHIPBUILDING ALREADY OFF RAILS
AUSTRALIA: The ANAO audit of the Govt's efforts to build 33 new warships reveals budget blowouts and high risk before a single weld is completed. |
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HMNZS TAUPO TO FIJI FOR EEZ OPS
NEW ZEALAND: The RNZN's Inshore Patrol Vessel HMNZS Taupo has departed for Fiji to assist in EEZ Enforcement operations of Fijian fisheries. |
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TIGER ARH MUNITIONS LOAD OUT
PALMERSTON NT: The 1st Avn Regt's Tiger ARH helos have been firing missiles, rockets and bombs at Ex Griffin Guns and Chong Ju. |
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FIRST RAN LANDINGS ON ADV SYCAMORE
NSW WATERS: The RAN Fleet Air Arm's 723 Squadron has qualified its instructors on deck landing the EC 135 T2 on ADV Sycamore. |
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NUSHIP SYDNEY LAUNCH
OSBORNE SA: Nuship Sydney, the third and final Hobart class Air Warfare Destroyer, has been launched by the AWD Alliance in Adelaide. |
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ROMEOS TRAIN IN SCOTLAND
SCOTLAND: Two RAN MH-60R Romeo helicopters participated in the Anti Submarine component of Exercise Joint Warrior 2018 in western Scotland. |
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NEW USMC Mk 13 Mod 7 SNIPER RIFLE
PUCKAPUNYAL VIC: Marine Rotational Force - Darwin is using the new Mk 13 Mod 7 sniper rifle at AASAM's International Sniper Competition. |
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MANUS DAYS: THE UNTOLD STORY OF MANUS ISLAND
BOOK REVIEW: An astonishing eye witness account of the abuse and mistreatment of Australian veterans contracted to secure the borders by illegal entrants and extremist agitators. |
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WARRAMUNGA SEIZES 11th NARCOTICS HAUL
ARABIAN SEA: HMAS Warramunga has seized its 11th major narcotics haul in its record breaking Maritime Security Operations with Combined Maritime Forces. |
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NEW SAS BARRACKS IN WA
SWANBOURNE WA: The SASR celebrated the opening of the first phase of the Campbell Barracks' redevelopment with a rare capability demo. |
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SPECIAL OPS AVIATION TO TRANSITION TO MRH-90
HOLSWORTHY: Special Operations Command aviation support will start transitioning from the Black Hawk to the non operational MRH-90 this year. |
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NZ SAS ACQUIRE BUSHMASTER PMV-M
NEW ZEALAND: New Zealand Special Operations Forces are acquiring the Australian made Bushmaster Protected Mobility Vehicle. |
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ANOTHER P-8A POSEIDON MMA DELIVERED
EDINBURGH SA: Another P-8A Poseidon Multi Mission Aircraft has arrived at RAAF Edinburgh for operations with 11 Squadron. |
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AP-3C ORION FLEET REDUCED
EDINBURGH SA: The RAAF's maritime patrol workhouse AP-3C Orion fleet has been reduced to less than half its original nosecount by retirements. |
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16 AIR LAND LIVE FIRE EX
AUSTRALIA: VIDEO - 110 Battery of 16 Air Land Regiment conducted a live fire Air Defence Exercise with the RCBS70 VLLADS missile system. |
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RAN & TNI-AL PATROL REVISED SEA BOUNDARY
TIMOR SEA: The RAN and its Indonesian counterpart the TNI-AL have conducted a joint patrol of the revised Australian/Indonesian sea border ratified in Bali. |
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P-8A POSEIDON TO JAPAN FOR NORTH KOREA OPS
CANBERRA: The RAAF will deploy an 11 Squadron P-8A Poseidon to Japan to provide surveillance support for UNSCR sanctions enforcement in the the Yellow and East China Seas. |
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ADF APPROVED FOR SECOND GENERATION UTAP
USA: The US Government has released a follow on approval allowing Australia to acquire revolutionary generation two UTAP aircraft. |
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PLAN KEOGH ORBAT MOMENTUM
AUSTRALIA: The Plan Keogh adoption of Motorised and Mechanised Infantry Battalions is gaining momentum within the MRCB Brigades. |
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MARINE ROTATIONAL FORCE DARWIN DETAILS
NORTHERN TERRITORY: The Marine Rotational Force - Darwin 2018 is an expanding MAGTF built around an elite US Marine battalion from Camp Pendleton in California. |
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FIRST VISION OF SASR NARY SOV
AUSTRALIA: VIDEO - Imagery of the Special Air Service Regt operating the until now almost invisible Nary Special Operations Vehicle. |
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CHIEF OF ARMY ATTACKS DIGGERS
CANBERRA: Lt Gen Angus Campbell has launched an extraordinary attack on our Anzacs demanding they conform to his politically correct agenda. |
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RAN WARSHIPS CONFRONTED BY CHINA
SOUTH CHINA SEA: Three Australian warships have been confronted by the Chinese Navy during a transit through international waters in the South China Sea near Vietnam. |
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RAAF C-27J SPARTAN FLEET COMPLETE
RICHMOND NSW: The RAAF has accepted its tenth and final C-27J Spartan Battlefield Airlifter at a ceremony held at RAAF Richmond west of Sydney. |
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AUSTRALIAN INTEGRATED JOINT FIRES
SA: The RAN has successfully demonstrated the AN/USG-2B Cooperative Engagement Capability on the Hobart class Air Warfare Destroyers. |
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US ARMY ACCEPTS AUSSIE BEB BOATS
USA: The US Army has accepted the first 34 of an eventual 374 Bridge Erection Boats designed and manufactured by NSW engineering firm Birdon. |
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F-35 SDD TEST FLIGHTS FINALLY COMPLETE
USA: The F-35 Systems Development and Demonstration (SDD) flight testing program is finally complete allowing the OT&E of the aircraft to begin in earnest. |
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IS RAAF COVERT UTAP-22 MAKO CUSTOMER
USA: The US Government has approved the potential acquisition of the cutting edge UTAP-22 Mako to two undisclosed countries one rumoured to be Australia. |
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M795 IMX 101 MUNITIONS FOR M777A2
USA: The US Government DSCA has approved an Australian Army request for supplies of M795 artillery shells for the M777A2 Lightweight Towed Howitzer. |
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RAAF F-35A OPS EXPAND IN USA
ARIZONA: The RAAF fleet of F-35A's flying with the USAF 61st Squadron is rapidly expanding as the RAAF prepares for the Lightning II to replace the Hornet. |
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NEW CURRAWONG COMMUNICATIONS ENTERS SERVICE
BRISBANE: The ADF's new Project Currawong Integrated Battlefield Telecommunications Network has entered service with SE Qld based Army and RAAF Signals units. |
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UNMANNED MINE COUNTERMEASURES PROGRAM
AUSTRALIA: The RAN is developing an unmanned Mine Countermeasures platform for remote Unmanned Underwater Vehicle Mine Warfare operations. |
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FIRST HAWKEI DRIVERS COURSE
PUCKAPUNYAL: The Army School of Transport is conducting it first Hawkei PMV-L Drivers Course ahead of the rollout of the vehicles later this year. |
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CIVILIAN ALPHA JETS SUPPORT ADF TRAINING
WILLIAMTOWN: Three Canadian registered civilian contractor Alpha Jet A's are flying out of Williamtown providing Adversary Air for the ADF. |
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B-52H BOMBERS DEPLOY TO RAAF DARWIN
DARWIN: Two US Air Force B-52H bombers are operating out of RAAF Darwin under the Enhanced Air Cooperation Initiative between the US Air Force and the RAAF. |
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P-8A POSEIDON CAPABILITY EXPANDS
EDINBURGH: The RAAF's 11 Squadron P-8A Poseidon MMAs will soon take over the Maritime Surveillance mission from the retiring AP-3C fleet. |
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MALAYS TRAIN WITH 7RAR AT CULTANA
SOUTH AUSTRALIA: Malaysian infantry from 14 Royal Malay Regiment (14RAMD) deployed to Edinburgh to train with 7RAR during Ex Southern Tiger 18. |
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FOXTROT CHINOOKS COMPLETE TRIALS ON HMAS CHOULES
TOWNSVILLE: The Army's CH-47F 'Foxtrot' Chinook helicopters have completed trials on the RAN's Bay class Landing Ship Dock HMAS Choules. |
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1RAR TRANSITIONS TO MOTORISED INFANTRY
TOWNSVILLE: The 1st Battalion has commenced life as a Motorised Infantry battalion after taking delivery of the first of 100 Bushmasters and Hawkei PMVs. |
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NO DECISION YET ON DAMAGED GROWLER
AUSTRALIA: The RAAF claims it has not yet made a final decision on the fate of the EA-18G Growler aircraft damaged in a fire in the USA in late January. |
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AUGMENTED MARINE ROTATIONAL FORCE - DARWIN
NORTHERN TERRITORY: The 2018 rotation of Marine Rotational Force - Darwin will have 15 percent more personnel and more aircraft and weapons systems in the NT. |
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ARMOURED CAVALRY REGT REORG
CULTANA SA: A Squadron 1st Armoured Regiment and Battle Group Jacka have conducted their first exercise as a reroled Combat Reconnaissance ASLAV Squadron. |
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AUSTRALIA PAYS FIVE TIMES MORE FOR BOXERS
AUSTRALIA: Army will pay five times more for its Boxer Combat Reconnaissance Vehicle than the German Army if Marise Payne's figures can be believed. |
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GOLD COAST GAMES COUNTER TERRORISM
GOLD COAST: Australian Army MRH-90 TTH helicopters trained with the Queensland Police Service Special Emergency Response Team's operators ahead of the Commonwealth Games. |
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ANZAC TRAINERS UNDER THREAT IN IRAQ
IRAQ: The Iraqi Government has recognised the Pro Iranian Hashdt al Shaabi sectarian Shia militia raising the prospect of militants gaining access to Australian and New Zealand trainers. |
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BOXER CRV ADVANCED CAPABILITIES
AUSTRALIA: The Armies next generation Boxer Combat Reconnaissance Vehicle delivers true 21st Century lethality, mobility and battlespace awareness. |
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NEXT GENERATION COMBAT RECONNAISSANCE VEHICLE
BRISBANE: The Government will announce that the Rheinmetall Boxer Combat Reconnaissance Vehicle will be the replacement for the combat proven ASLAV. |
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ADF/PNGDF COMBINED TRAINING IN PNG
PAPUA NEW GUINEA: An Australian Mentoring Team from 1RAR is working with the Papua New Guinea Defence Force at Taurama Barracks conducting combined training. |
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F-35A TECHNICAL PROBLEMS DELAY PROGRESS
USA: A US Government report has identified a number of issues that will delay the F-35A Lightning II achieving Full Operating Capability on schedule. |
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RED BARON: THE LIFE AND DEATH OF AN ACE
BOOK REVIEW: Peter Kilduff's biography of the German Great War Ace of Aces Manfried Friherr Richthofen with a concentration on his wartime exploits as a combat pilot. |
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BRIT FRIGATE IN AUST ON WAY TO SOUTH CHINA SEA
BASS STRAIT: HMS Sutherland has participated in Ex Ocean Explorer and port visits prior to conducting a passage through the South China Sea. |
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TE KAHA COMMENCES UPGRADE IN CANADA
CANADA: The RNZN's Anzac class guided missile frigate HMNZS Te Kaha has arrived in Canada for her major upgrade of combat systems. |
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ADVANCED PRECISION KILL WEAPONS SYSTEM II
AUSTRALIA: The RAN's fleet of MH-60R Romeo Strike Hawk helicopters are being armed with the laser guided Advanced Precision Kill Weapons System II. |
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WARRAMUNGA SIEZES 8000KG OF NARCOTICS
ARABIAN SEA: HMAS Warramunga has seized another 8000 kilograms of insurgency funding narcotics during CTF-150 led operations in the Arabian Sea. |
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TIGER HELO CRASH DETAILS
GERMANY: The report into the crash of a German Tiger UHT helo in Mali has revealed issues with the aircraft's avionices that may impact on Australian Tiger Ops. |
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PHILIPPINES AUSTRALIA ARMY TO ARMY EX
PHILIPPINES: The Australian and Philippines Armies have conducted cooperative training on Mindanao under the Philippines Australia Army to Army Exercise. |
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AUSTRALIAN & NZ DEFENDER MAGAZINE NO: 101
AUSTRALIA: Our Autumn edition, Australian & NZ Defender No 100 is out now. Great stories and pics. Available now as an HTML flipper with a PDF download link on the contents page. |
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SIXTH RAAF F-35A LIGHTNING FLYING
TEXAS USA: The sixth RAAF F-35A Lightning II has completed its first flight in Texas USA. Story includes Pics of A35-003/004 and 005. Pics by Carl Richards |
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RAAF WEDGETAIL UPGRADE UNDERWAY
AUSTRALIA: The first phase of the capability upgrade of the RAAF's E-7A Wedgetail AEW&C fleet has been completed by Boeing Australia |
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DAMAGED MH-60R REPAIRED & TESTED
AUSTRALIA: The RAN has stated that MH-60R Strike Hawk helicopter damaged on HMAS Warramunga in October is repaired and inspected. |
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12 WARSHIPS LEAVE FOR OCEAN EXPLORER
SYDNEY: A flotilla of Australian and New Zealand warships has left Sydney to commence Exercise Ocean Explorer 2018 off the east coast of NSW. |
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TASK GROUP AFGHANISTAN EXPANSION
AFGHANISTAN: The Australian Task Group Afghanistan has expanded to assist the Resolute Support Mission counter the Taliban and ISK. |
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HOBART FIRST OF CLASS WEAPONS TRIALS
AUSTRALIA: VIDEO - The Royal Australian Navy's new Air Warfare Destroyer HMAS Hobart has fired its Mk 15 CIWS, Mk 45 127mm Gun and fired a MU-90 LIghtweight Torpedo during trials. |
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SPECIAL OPERATIONS TASK GROUP - IRAQ
IRAQ: The Australian Special Operations Task Group - Iraq is hard at it preparing the Iraqi Counter Terrorism Service to wipe Islamic State remnants. |
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NEW LAND 155 BRIDGING SYSTEMS ENTER SERVICE
HOLSWORTHY NSW: The Australian Army's Enhanced Gap Crossing Capability including four new bridging systems is entering service with the RAE. |
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SASR COUNTER TERRORISM DEMO
AUSTRALIA: VIDEO - A Special Air Service Regiment Special Recovery serial demonstration for the Sub Regional Defence Ministers' meeting in Perth. |
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CITATIONS & SACKINGS AFTER TILTROTOR CRASH
SYDNEY: Australian Clearance Divers and the crew of HMAS Melville have been awarded the USMC's Meritorious Unit Citation in the wake of the tragic MV-22B Osprey crash. |
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TASK GROUP TAJI TRAINS 30000th IRAQI
TAJI IRAQ: The Australian and New Zealand Task Group Taji 6 trained the 30000th Iraqi soldier under the combined Anzac Build Partner Capacity mission last week. |
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NEW 81mm MORTAR FOR ARMY
AUSTRALIA: The Army will commence replacing its long serving F2 81mm Mortar with a new lighter advanced 81mm mortar system later on this year. |
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REPORTS RAAF GROWLER CRASH
NEVADA USA: A RAAF EA-18G Growler has been damaged during a take off incident at Exercise Red Flag 18-1 at Nellis AFB in Las Vegas Nevada. |
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NEW PLAN KEOGH BRIGADE ORDER OF BATTLE
AUSTRALIA: The Army's three combat brigades are being tweaked under Plan Keogh with more Combat Reconnaissance and APCs to Combat Engineers as well as infantry. |
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RNZAF & WARRAMUNGA BREAK DRUG SEIZURE RECORDS AGAIN
MIDDLE EAST: VIDEO - HMAS Warramunga has seized a massive 915 kg of heroin during counter narcotics operations with a Kiwi RNZAF P-3K2 Orion in the western Indian Ocean breaking CMF records. |
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FUTURE ARTILLERY AMMUNITION SELECTED
CANBERRA: The Nioa supplied Rheinmetall Denel Munitions Assegai range of 155mm smart munitions will be Army's Future Artillery Ammunition. |
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EA-18G GROWLERS TO RED FLAG
NEVADA USA: The RAAF will deploy its new EA-18G Growler Airborne Electronic Attack aircraft to Nellis AFB near Las Vegas for Exercise Red Flag 18-1. |
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THE RAG TAG FLEET
BOOK REVIEW: Ian W. Shaw's history of the Australian manned US Army Small Ships Section that provided a vital logistics link in the Pacific War. |
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INDIA AIR FORCE WILL DEPLOY FOR PITCH BLACK
INDIA: The Indian Air Force will deploy aircraft to participate in Exercise Pitch Black held in August in the Northern Territory for the first time. |
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AUSTRALIA TO INCREASE DEFENCE COOPERATION WITH JAPAN
JAPAN: The Prime Minister announced a new Reciprical Access Agreement between Australia and Japan to facilitate increased Defence cooperation in the future. |
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AUSTRALIAN ARMY IS OFFICER HEAVY
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Army's officer corps is disproportionately large and is seriously lacking authentic Close Quarter Combat experience in its highest ranks. |
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JOINT HELICOPTER AIRCREW TRAINING SCHOOL BEGINS
NOWRA NSW: The RAN/Army Joint Helicopter Aircrew Training School has commenced operations at the RAN's Naval Air Station HMAS Albatross near Nowra NSW. |
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NZSAS SUPACAT SOV ENTERS SERVICE
NEW ZEALAND: The 1st New Zealand Special Air Service Group has accepted its complete fleet of Supacat SOV-MH Special Operations Vehicles. |
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HAWKEI PMV-L DEPLOYED TO IRAQ
TAJI IRAQ: VIDEO - The ADF has deployed two Hawkei Protected Mobility Vehicle - Light MRAPs to support Task Group Taji 6 Build Partner Capacity operations in Iraq. |
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SIXTH RAAF POSEIDON INBOUND TO AUSTRALIA
AUSTRALIA: The RAAF's sixth P-8A Poseidon Multi Mission Aircraft is inbound to Australia from Boeing Defence's facilities in Washington State USA. |
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WARRAMUNGA BREAKS DRUG SEIZURE RECORDS
ARABIAN SEA: HMAS Warramunga has broken RAN, CMF and NCIS narcotics seizure records since Dec 27 during Maritime Security Operations with Combined Maritime Forces. |
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DETAILS OF NEXT GEN OPV
AUSTRALIA: The RAN has released a few limited details of the specifications of the twelve next generation Offshore Patrol Vessels about to be built. |
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3RD & 4TH F-35A LIGHTNINGS TO BE ACCEPTED SOON
TEXAS USA: The RAAF's third and fourth F-35A Lightning II Joint Strike Fighters will be officially accepted by the RAAF from Lockheed Martin sometime this month. Pic Carl Richards |
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AIR WARFARE DESTROYER CAPABILITY VALIDATION TRIALS
AUSTRALIA: HMAS Hobart has commenced a complex series of sea trials that will culminate in the type's Initial Operational Capability certification in December. |
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SECRET ARMY
BOOK REVIEW: Barry Stone's history of Dunsterforce, an elite team mounted in Model-T Fords who penetrated Iran and the Caspian during the madness of the Armenian Genocide in 1918. |
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MOLAN IDENTIFIES CRITICAL VULNERABILITIES
AUSTRALIA: Senator elect and former Army Major General Jim Molan has identified critical vulnerabilities in Australia's security environment. |
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HMAS WARRAMUNGA NARCOTICS SEIZURE
MIDDLE EAST: VIDEO - HMAS Warramunga has seized a massive 7500 kg of hashish and 70kg of heroin during counter narcotics operations with CTF-150 in the Arabian Sea. |
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RAAF CEASES BOMBING MISSION IN IRAQ
IRAQ: The RAAF's air strikes against Islamic State in Iraq and Syria have been completed and the Rhinos are returning to RAAF Amberley after 28 months of combat ops. |
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CHINA TELLS OFF RAN CHIEF
BEIJING PRC: A Chinese Admiral has dressed down the Australian Chief of Navy during formal discussions between the two navies. |
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18 RAAF HORNETS SOLD TO CANADA
CANBERRA: The Department of Defence has confirmed that Canada will buy 18 RAAF F/A-18HUG Hornets after they have been retired. |
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RESERVE AMPHIB EX OCEAN RAIDER
NEW SOUTH WALES: The NSW based 5th Brigade deployed a combat team for amphibious activities for the first time within Exercise Ocean Raider. |
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CHINOOKS CONDUCT DECK LANDING QUALS
CORAL SEA: Army CH-47F Chinooks have completed deck landing qualification on HMAS Adelaide in preparation for the northern cyclone season. |
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10TH C-27J ROLLS OFF ASSEMBLY LINE
ITALY: The RAAF's tenth and final C-27J Spartan has rolled off the Leonardo assembly line in Turin and is in Texas for systems integration. |
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ESCAPE ARTIST
BOOK REVIEW: The incredible story of child solider Johnny Peck's activities in the Second World War as an escapee and saboteur by Peter Monteath. |
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IRAQ OPERATIONS UNDER ASSESSMENT
CANBERRA: The Australian Government is assessing its military contribution in the Middle East in the wake of the Iraqi Government's announcement of victory over Islamic State. |
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RUSSIAN BOMBERS FLYING OUT OF PAPUA
INDONESIA: Russian Air Force Tu 95MS nuclear bombers have flown into and out of Manuhua Airbase on the island of Biak in Indonesian Papua. |
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OFFENSIVE AIR OPS IRAQ & SYRIA
IRAQ/SYRIA: Recent Australian Air Task Group Offensive Air Operations targeting Islamic State in Iraq and Syria. Including bombing operations, AEW&C and refuelling. |
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ENHANCED AIR COOPERATION AGREEMENT
AMBERLEY: The deployment of two B-1B Lancers to RAAF Amberley capped off a successful year for the RAAF/USAF Enhanced Air Cooperation Agreement. |
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KILLING OFF THE ANZAC SPIRIT
EDITORIAL: Issue 100 reminiscences about the old Australia and the magnificence of the Anzac spirit that is now under attack from our Generals and Defence Minister. |
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S-70B SEAHAWKS & AS-350 SQUIRRELS RETIRE
NOWRA: The RAN has retired its S-70B Seahawks and AS-350 Squirrel training helicopters which have served the Navy since the mid 1980s. |
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AUSTRALIAN & NZ DEFENDER NO 100
AUSTRALIA: We've hit the ton! Our Summer Edition of Australian & Defender is now available as a HTML5 flipper or PDF download. |
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SPARSE DETAILS OF NEW OPV
CANBERRA: The RAN has released a few technical details and specifications of its twelve future Offshore Patrol Vessels announced on November 24. |
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TASK GROUP TAJI WEAPONS TRAINING
IRAQ: VIDEO - Task Group Taji 5 conduct direct and indirect fire weapons training for Iraqi Special Forces at Besmaya Range Complex in north eastern Iraq. |
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B-1B LANCERS FLYING OUT OF AMBERLEY
AMBERLEY QLD: Two US Air Force B-1B Lancer bombers are operating out of RAAF Amberley west of Ipswich Qld under the Enhanced Air Cooperation (EAC) program. |
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LURSSEN OFFSHORE PATROL VESSEL SELECTED
CANBERRA: An undisclosed Lurssen Defence Offshore Patrol Vessel has been selected for the convoluted Project Sea 1180 OPV requirement. |
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EX SOUTHERN KATIPO WRAPS UP
NEW ZEALAND: Feature on the NZ Defence Forces biannual mega-ex Exercise Southern Katipo 2017 which saw ten nations deploy to the South Island. |
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AIR WARFARE DESTROYER BRISBANE SEA TRIALS
OSBORNE SA: Hobart class Air Warfare Destroyer 2 nuship Brisbane has commenced the first phase of Contractor's Sea Trials in waters off Adelaide. |
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TWO FUTURE REPLENISHMENT SHIPS NAMED
CANBERRA: The Department of Defence has announced the names of the two future Auxiliary Oiler Replenishment ships that are under construction in Spain. |
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SOCOMD VIDEO DECLASSIED
AUSTRALIA: VIDEO - Special Operations Command - Australia has declassified an amazing almost four minute video clip covering all of its main units. |
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ARMY HELICOPTER SCHOOL WINDING UP
OAKEY QLD: The Army's Helicopter School at the Army Aviation Centre at Oakey in Qld is conducting its final flying training activity ahead of closing in December. |
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THE COMMANDO
BOOK REVIEW: The stunning biography of Australian Commando legend Cameron Baird VC MG by Ben McKelvey. |
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TASK GROUP TAJI JTAC COURSE
IRAQ: VIDEO - Task Group Taji 5 JTACs conduct the Iraqi Forward Air Control Course at Besmaya BPC Centre Range in Iraq. |
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1RAR TRAINING TEAM IN PHILIPPINES
PHILIPPINES: An Aussie 80 man Land Mobile Training Team is providing Build Partner Capacity training for the Armed Forces of the Philippines to fight Islamic State. |
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THIRD AUSTRALIAN F-35A COMPLETE
TEXAS USA: A35-003 the third Australian F-35A Lightning II Joint Strike Fighter has rolled out of Lockheed Martin's production line in Fort Worth Texas. |
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HMAS NEWCASTLE COMPLETES MER MISSION
MIDDLE EAST : The Australian Adelaide class Guided Missile Frigate HMAS Newcastle is returning to Australia after completing her deployment in the MER. |
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DARWIN & ENDEAVOUR TO DECOMMISSION
AUCKLAND/SYDNEY: The Australian frigate HMAS Darwin and the New Zealand underway oiler HMNZS Endeavour are scheduled for decommissioning in December. |
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OP HIGHROAD AFGHANISTAN RECENT INCIDENTS
AFGHANISTAN: Australian military personnel in Afghanistan continue their Train Advise and Assist mission as their base comes under heavy rocket fire. |
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75TH ANNIVERSARY OF RECAPTURE OF KOKODA
AUSTRALIA: November 2 marks the 75th anniversary of the Australian liberation of Kokoda Village on the Kokoda Track in November 1942. |
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AUSTRALIAN AIRSTRIKES IN IRAQ
IRAQ: Australian Air Task Group Strike Element airstrikes supporting Iraqi Security Forces operations against Islamic State militants in Ramadi, Hawija and Rawah. |
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AUSTRALIAN TONGAN COY EX IN NZ
NEW ZEALAND: VIDEO - The combined 1RAR and Tongan Combat Team contact the exercise enemy during Southern Katipo in New Zealand's South Island. |
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AUSTRALIAN LIGHT HORSE
BOOK REVIEW: Phillip Bradley's Australian Light Horse is an excellent pictorial history of the Australian experience fighting the Turks in the Great War. |
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EX SOUTHERN KATIPO UNDERWAY
NEW ZEALAND: Ex Southern Katipo 2017, the NZDF's premier international exercise, is underway in the north of NZ's South Island with land, sea and air elements. |
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1st ARMOURED TRANSFERRED TO EDINBURGH
DARWIN: The 1st Armoured Regiment ended 22 years of basing at Robertson Barracks near Darwin on October 25 and has transferred to Edinburgh SA. |
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ORIONS ENDING PHILIPPINE OPERATIONS
PHILIPPINES: The two RAAF AP-3C Orions deployed in the Philippines providing support in the fight against Islamic State will return to Australia. |
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INDONESIAN TROOPS TRAIN WITH 1BDE
DARWIN: Indonesian Army TNI-AD personnel are training in an annual exchange event with 1st Brigade at Robertson Barracks in the the Northern Territory. |
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AUSTRALIAN TRAINING TEAM HEADS TO PHILIPPINES
AUSTRALIA: An Australian Army Build Partner Capacity training team is inbound to the Philippines to assist Armed Forced of the Philippines fight Islamic State in East Asia. |
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TASK GROUP TAJI 5 BPC OPS
TAJI IRAQ: VIDEO - Anzac Task Group Taji 5 trainers conduct combined arms training with Iraqi Army force elements at Taji Military Complex north of Baghdad. |
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MH-60R ROMEO SEVERELY DAMAGED
AUSTRALIA: A new RAN MH-60R Romeo combat helicopter has been severely damaged aboard HMAS Warramunga in rough seas while deploying to the Middle East Region. |
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NZ ARMY BUYS BARRETT SNIPER SYSTEMS
NEW ZEALAND: The New Zealand Army is acquiring the Barrett 8.58mm MRAD Sniper Rifle and 12.7mm M-107A1 Anti Material Anti Personnel Weapons Systems . |
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2/14 LHR ACTIVATES ABRAMS SQUADRON
BRISBANE: The 2nd 14th Light Horse Regiment has activated its Main Battle Tank Squadron after 14 M1A1 Abrams were delivered last month. |
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ISLAMIC STATE DEFEATED IN MARAWI
PHILIPPINES: The Armed Forces of the Philippines have liberated Marawi City from Islamic State East Asia after a five month battle which involved some ADF support elements. |
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ISLAMIC STATE DEFEATED IN RAQQA
SYRIA: Coalition backed Syrian Democratic Forces have liberated Islamic States self declared capital Raqqa from the psychotic islamist extremists. |
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IRAQ SEIZES KIRKUK FROM KURDS
IRAQ: Australian advised and trained Iraqi Federal Security Forces have seized Kirkuk from Kurdish Regional Government forces threatening the anti IS coalition. |
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ARMY TO RETAIN LIMITED TIGER ARH
CANBERRA: The Army has decided to retain its problematic Tiger Armed Reconnaissance Helicopter and possibly invest billions more in the aircraft. |
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US MARINES COMPLETE NT ROTATION
NORTHERN TERRITORY: Marine Rotational Force - Darwin 2017 has returned to California after successfully completing its Northern Territory dry season deployment. |
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CANADA SEEKS RAAF HUG HORNETS
CANADA: The first Canadian Government has official asked for pricing on RAAF HUG Hornets due for retirement as an interim fighter capability. |
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RAAF KC-30A MRTT CLEARED TO REFUEL B-52Hs
USA: RAAF KC-30A Multi Role Tanker Transports are certified to refuel USAF B-52H bombers after testing at Edwards AFB in southern California. |
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RAAF AIR STRIKES IN MIDDLE EAST
IRAQ & SYRIA: RAAF Air Task Group Strike Element Offensive Air Operations against Islamic State remnants in Iraq and Syria between Sept 22 and Oct 5 |
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OPERATION VANUATU ASSIST
VANUATU: The ADF has delivered emergency aid to 11500 civilians evacuated from an island under threat from a volcano which was threatening to erupt. |
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FIRST S100 MTUAS DELIVERY IN NOVEMBER
NOWRA: The first of the RAN's new Maritime Tactical Unmanned Aircraft System - Interim Capability will arrive at HMAS Albatross at Nowra in November. |
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WARRAMUNGA OFF TO MIDDLE EAST
SYDNEY HARBOUR: The RAN Anzac class frigate HMAS Warramunga has departed Australia for a nine month operational deployment in the Middle East Region. |
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LANDING CRAFT LIMIT AMPHIBIOUS OPS
CANBERRA: The ADF's Amphibious capacity to lodge combat forces over the beach is constrained by limitations on the LCM-1E Landing Craft. |
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RAN BALLISTIC MISSILE DEFENCE
CANBERRA: The RAN will bring Australia's first Ballistic Missile Defence capability into service in its next generation of frigates. |
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ANALYSIS OF RAN TASKING
MIDDLE EAST REGION: Senior analysts are calling for the RAN to refocus its efforts to the South China Sea as regional maritime security breaks down. |
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MASSIVE GBU-53/B SMALL DIAMETER BOMB ORDER
USA: The US Government has approved a massive Australian order of GBU-53/B Increment II Small Diameter Bombs for the RAAF. |
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EC-135 TRIALS ON AVIATION TRAINING SHIP
JERVIS BAY: The RAN is conducting First of Class Flight Trials using the HATS EC-135 T2 helos on the new Multirole Aviation Training Vessel. |
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8/12RAA GETS NEW HX77 GUN TRACTORS
NORTHERN TERRITORY: The 8th/12th Regiment RAA has taken delivery of its first HX77 Gun Tractors which are replacing the old Mack tow vehicles. |
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ADF RELEASES CREDIBLE CIVILIAN CASUALTY REPORT
IRAQ: The ADF has released two Credible Civilian Casualty Reports relating to Australian involvement in Close Air Support operations during the liberation of Mosul. |
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AUSTRALIAN AIR STRIKES IN IRAQ
IRAQ: RAAF Air Task Group F/A-18F Rhinos have been active conducting airstrikes against Islamic State in the last Islamic State controlled pockets in Iraq. |
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5RAR TRAINS WITH TNI IN INDONESIA
INDONESIA: 5RAR Diggers and 1CHB medics deployed to West Java to train with the TNI-AD's 201st Mechanised Infantry Battalion under Exercise Wirra Jaya. |
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ADELAIDE DEPLOYS HOSPITAL INTO DILI
TIMOR LESTE: The RAN Amphibious Assault Ship delivers a containerised Level II Field Hospital into Dili. Spectacular imagery photo story. |
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AIR WARFARE DESTROYER HMAS HOBART COMMISSIONED
SYDNEY HARBOUR: The RAN's new Air Warfare Destroyer HMAS Hobart was commissioned into service at a ceremony on Garden Island on September 23 |
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C-17A SUPPLIES ANTARCTIC STATIONS IN WINTER
ANTARCTICA: The RAAF's C-17As have ended the Australian Antarctic Divisions winter isolation with food and equipment deliveries by parachute. |
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ADF SURRENDERS TO GENDER EXTREMISTS
EDITORIAL: The ADF's commanders have completely surrendered Australia's security forces to radical gender theory extremists. |
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SEVENTH C-27J SPARTAN DELIVERED
RICHMOND NSW: The seventh RAAF C-27J Spartan Battlefield Airlifter flew into RAAF Base Richmond after the long delivery flight from Texas USA. |
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MARINE TILTROTORS COMPLETE DEPLOYMENT
DARWIN: VIDEO - The Marine Rotational Force - Darwin Air Combat Element's MV-22B Osprey Tiltrotor detachment has left for Hawaii as Marine Rotational Force - Darwin 17 completes deployment. |
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NEWCASTLE ATTACHMENT TO US CARRIER GROUP
ARABIAN GULF: HMAS Newcastle has completed an attachment supporting the USS Nimitz Carrier Strike Group operating against Islamic State in Iraq and Syria. |
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ADELAIDE TO ALAMEIN
BOOK REVIEW: Darren Paech's excellent history of his grandfather's war with the 2nd/48th at Tobruk, Alamein and the Pacific. |
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SIXTH RAAF KC-30A TANKER ARRIVES
AMBERLEY QLD: The sixth RAAF KC-30A Multi Role Tanker Transport arrived secretly at Amberley after conversion from a Qantas airliner in Spain. |
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RAAF P-8A POSEIDON FLEET EXPANDS
EDINBURGH SA: The RAAF P-8A Poseidon Multi Mission Aircraft fleet has expanded to four aircraft with four more due by this time next year. |
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SOTG NCO CLEARED BY AFP
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Federal Police have wound up an investigation into an Australian SASR NCO's actions in Afghanistan without laying charges. |
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NZ GUNNERS TRAIN IN HAWAII
HAWAII: NZ Gunners from 163 Battery 16 Field Regt are training in Hawaii with the US Army 25th Infantry Division under Exercise Lightning Whaitiri. |
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2RAR SNIPERS COMPETE IN CANADA
CANADA: 2RAR is representing the Australian Army competing against international shooters at the Canadian International Sniper Concentration in New Brunswick. |
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CANADA HINTS IT WANTS RAAF HORNETS
CANADA: Canada has inspected RAAF Hornets with a view to purchase after suspending its order for 18 F/A-18E Super Hornets. |
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AUSTRALIAN TAA MISSION TO PHILIPPINES
PHILIPPINES: Australia will deploy training teams to help the Armed Forces of the Philippines combat Islamic State East Asia militants in Mindanao. |
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ARMED MALE DRONE LIKELY TO BE MQ-9B PREDATOR
AUSTRALIA: The RAAF's future Armed Remotely Piloted Aircraft is likely to be the MQ-9B Predator B according to pundits. |
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RAN INDO PACIFIC ENDEAVOUR JOINT TASK GROUP
SYDNEY: The largest Australian naval Joint Task Group for decades has departed for Exercise Indo Pacific Endeavour in the Indian and Pacific Oceans. |
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2RAR TRANSITION TO AMPHIBIOUS PRE LANDING FORCE
AUSTRALIA: The 2RAR Amphibious Ground Combat Element will officially transition to a dedicated Amphibious Pre Landing Force in October. |
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US APPROVES UPGRADE FOR RAN MH-60Rs
USA: The US Defence Security Cooperation Agency has published Congressional approval for a ten year progressive upgrade of the RAN's MH-60R Multi Mission Helicopters. |
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FLIGHT RESTRICTIONS ON RAAF F-35As LIFTED
USA: Flight restrictions on the RAAF's F-35As have been lifted as Luke AFB clears its international Lightning II fighters for routine training operations. |
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NORTH KOREA DETONATES SUSPECTED H-BOMB
NORTH KOREA: The DPRK conducted another nuclear test detonation, this time thought to be an enhanced hydrogen nuclear device. |
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SF AFGHAN INQUIRY SEEKING WITNESSES TO ALLEGATIONS
CANBERRA: The head of the inquiry into allegations against SOTG Afghanistan personnel is seeking witnesses to assist in proceedings against veterans. |
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AUSTRALIAN & NZ DEFENDER NO 99
AUSTRALIA: Our Spring edition of Australian & NZ Defender is now available as a HTML5 flipper or PDF download. |
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AIR TASK GROUP ARMAMENT
AL DHAFRA UAE: VIDEO - Australian Air Task Group Strike Element F/A-18F Rhinos are armed for missions against Islamic State. |
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AUSTRALIAN AIRSTRIKES AGAINST ISLAMIC STATE
IRAQ: Australian airstrikes against Islamic State in Iraq and Syria within the international CJTF - Operation Inherent Resolve air campaign. |
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NEW ZEALAND TRIALS SINGAPOREAN JET BASING
NEW ZEALAND: Six Singaporean F-16D are flying out of RNZAF Ohakea in a trial ahead of a decision to base RSAF F-15SG Eagles long term in New Zealand. |
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WE ARE NOT IN SAFE HANDS
EDITORIAL: While regional stablity disintegrates and South Korea openly plans for war against North Korea the ADF's High Command is off playing with PC agendas. We are not in safe hands. |
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AUSTRALIA OFFERS SPECIAL FORCES TO PHILIPPINES
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Government has offered the Philippines Special Operations troops to assist its fight against Islamic State. |
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ISLAMIC STATE ROUTED IN IRAQ & SYRIA
IRAQ/SYRIA: Islamic State is rapidly losing ground as its fighters lose commitment in both Iraq and Syria. |
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AFGHANISTAN REFOCUS ANALYSIS
AUSTRALIA: A thorough analysis of the US Government's new operational focus in Afghanistan from a counter insurgency expert. |
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BATTLE OF MILNE BAY 75th ANNIVERSARY
AUSTRALIA: Today marks the 75th Anniversary of the Battle of Milne Bay where Australians defeated the Japanese for the first time on land. |
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FUTURE FRIGATE SHIPYARD CONSTRUCTION BEGINS
OSBORNE SA: Work at the Surface Shipbuilding Yard at Osborne South Naval Shipbuilding Precinct is underway ahead of the Future Frigate Project. |
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NEW US APPROACH IN AFGHANISTAN OPS
USA: The US President has outlined a change in focus towards Counter Terrorism for US Forces operating in Afghanistan. |
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4TH USN 7TH FLEET COLLISION
MALACCA STRAIT: The US Navy's USS John S McCain lost ten sailors after impacting an oil tanker in the Malacca Strait near Singapore. |
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EXOSKELETON RESEARCH PROGRAM
VICTORIA: Digger Works is developing an experimental exoskeleton assembly designed to take the weight off a soldier's shoulders. |
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AUSTRALIAN AIR TASK GROUP OPS
IRAQ & SYRIA: The RAAF Air Task Group continues its mission to destroy Islamic State within the US led CJTF- Op Inherent Resolve. |
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RUMOURS OF SHARROUF KILLED AGAIN
SYRIA: Former Sydney based Islamic State militant Khaled Sharrouf is reported to be killed again by a Coalition airstrike. |
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HAWKEI PROTECTED MOBILITY VEHICLE - LIGHT
MONEGEETTA VIC: The Army's new Hawkei PMV-Light is advancing through its systems development and demonstration phase and Low Rate Initial Production. |
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RAAF ACCEPTS SIX PC21 ADVANCED TRAINERS
EAST SALE VIC: The RAAF has accepted six of its order of 49 new PC-21 Advanced Trainers which will replace the PC-9A and CT-4B Trainers. |
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POSSIBLE ADF ROLE IN KOREAN CRISIS
CANBERRA: The Government has committed ADF combat units in advent of a war with North Korea. A&NZD examines the likely options for early Australian intervention. |
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INDONESIA BARTERS FOOD FOR SU35 FLANKERS
INDONESIA: The Indonesian Government is negotiating a barter of agricultural produce for Russian made Su35 Flanker E fighters. |
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COMBAT RECONNAISSANCE VEHICLE TRIALS WIND UP
AUSTRALIA: The Army's ASLAV replacement under Land 400 Phase 2 has entered analysis after completing the RMA trials. |
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MALI TIGER CRASH HAS IMPLICATIONS FOR ARH
MALI: The crash of a German Army AS665 Tiger UHT helicopter in Mali has implications for the Australian Tiger fleet. |
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HERON RPA RETIRED EARLY
AMBERLEY: The RAAF did not renew the lease for the Heron RPA and has withdrawn the capability earlier than originally announced. |
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EXERCISE MOBILITY GUARDIAN WASHINGTON USA
USA: The RAAF and RNZAF have deployed C-17A and C-130H airlifters and a KC-30A tanker to Joint Base Lewis McChord in Washington USA for Ex Mobility Guardian 17. |
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OSPREY WRECK RECOVERY BEGINS
CORAL SEA: The RAN has commenced the recovery of the wreckage of the MV-22B Osprey which crashed off Shoalwater Bay Training Area. |
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IRAQ COMMENCES TAL AFAR OFFENSIVE
IRAQ: Iraqi Federal Security Forces have conducted successful offensive operations against Islamic State's final stronghold in Tal Afar. |
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AIR WARFARE DESTROYER BOUND FOR FLEET BASE EAST
ADELAIDE: The RAN's first Air Warfare Destroyer is heading for Fleet Base East in Sydney in the lead up to her commissioning into service. |
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TGT 5 IRAQI ARMY URBAN ASSAULT TRAINING
TAJI IRAQ: VIDEO - Task Group Taji V conduct Urban Operations training for the Iraqi Army's 58th Brigade. |
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US APPROVES RAAF ALE-70 TOWED COUNTERMEASURE ACQUISTION
USA: The US Government has approved a massive RAAF order for the AN/ALE-70 towed countermeasure system for the F-35A. |
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MARINES MISSING AFTER MV-22 CRASH OFF QLD
QLD WATERS: Three US Marines are still missing after an MV-22B Osprey crashed off the coast of Queensland. |
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RAN RNZN INCREASE WESTERN PACIFIC FOCUS
WESTERN PACIFIC: The RAN and RNZN are increasing their focus on the Western Pacific as the Post Cold War security structures break down. |
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TGT V ADVANCED MARKSMANSHIP TRAINING
TAJI IRAQ: VIDEO - Task Group Taji V conduct an Advanced Marksmanship Course for Iraqi troops at Taji Military Complex near Baghdad. |
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HMAS ADELAIDE RESUMES FLIGHT TRIALS
NEW SOUTH WALES: The RAN's Amphibious Assault Ship HMAS Adelaide has resumed First of Class Flight Trials after being repaired. |
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RNZIR SOUTHERN KATIPO WORK UPS
NEW ZEALAND: The NZDF has commenced serious working up for Ex Southern Katipo with 2/1RNZIR conducting Ex Alpha Town in the South Island. |
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AMMO TECHS ARM F/A-18Fs
UAE: RAAF Armament Technicians load up 1 Squadron F/A-18Fs with GBU-54 LJDAMs and GBU-38V4 JDAMs at the ADF's Main Operating Base in the UAE to drop on Islamic State. |
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TS 17 31MEU BEACH ASSAULT
SHOALWATER BAY: VIDEO - 15 minute uncut unscripted video of 31st Marine Expeditionary Units beach assault at SWBTA on July 19. |
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NORTH KOREA LAUNCHES POSSIBLE ICBM
NORTH KOREA: The Kim Jong Un regime has launched a missile into the Sea of Japan that analysts believe may deliver the outlaw state true ICBM capability. |
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LOCKHEED MARTIN SAYS F-35 SDD TO COMPLETE THIS YEAR
USA: Lockheed Martin has issued a statement claiming that the F-35 Joint Strike Fight Systems Design and Development phase will be completed by December. |
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TALISMAN SABRE COMBINED FLEET CONCENTRATION
CORAL SEA: The combined power of the Talisman Sabre warships was demonstrated in a photographic exercise with US Navy, RAN and RNZN warships. |
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US SPECIAL OPERATIONS TS17 HAHO INFIL
SHOALWATER BAY: USMC Marine Recon and USAF Combat Controllers conducted a High Altitude High Opening insertion into Talisman Sabre on July 11. |
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TS 17 CULMINATING BATTLE VIDEO
SHOALWATER BAY: VIDEO - The culminating battle of Talisman Sabre 17 - a Brigade Assault with three Battle Groups up. |
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THE KILLING SCHOOL
BOOK REVIEW: Brandon Webb's inside story of modern Coalition sniper operations and training. Reviewed by J.H. Farrell |
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RAAF GROWLERS ACTIVE IN TS17
AMBERLEY: RAAF 6 Squadron EA-18G Growlers have joined up with US Navy VAQ-132 Growlers to support Talisman Sabre. |
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TS17 2RAR AND 31MEU AMPHIBIOUS ASSAULT
SHOALWATER BAY: 2RAR and the USMC's 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit conducted a massive over the beach amphibious assault at SWBTA. |
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RQ-7B DEMONSTRATES REMOTE TERMINAL TARGETING
MT BUNDEY NT: Australian Army 132 UAV Bty RQ-7B Shadows have terminally guided AGM-114 Hellfire missiles and conducted 155mm artillery corrections in Australia for the first time. |
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LEGALITIES OF ADF COUNTER TERRORISM REVISED
CANBERRA: The Government will expand the ADF's role in Counter Terrorism, but has stopped short of authorising the ADF to act in the national interest during attacks. |
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TS17 CLEARANCE DIVER BEACH RECON VIDEO
SHOALWATER BAY: VIDEO - Talisman Sabre's combined Clearance Diving Team conducts Advance Force Beach Recon for the amphibious Joint Force Entry Operation. |
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TS17 1RAR AIR ASSAULT
SHOALWATER BAY: VIDEO - 1RAR Air Mobile insertion from HMAS Canberra in 5th Aviation Regiment MRH-90 helicopters into Shoalwater Bay Training Area for Talisman Sabre. |
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NEXT F/A-18F RHINO UPGRADE APPROVED
USA: The US Government has approved the sale of advanced systems to further upgrade the RAAF's F/A-18F Rhino fleet. |
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MAJOR ABRAMS 120mm TRAINING AMMO BUY
USA: The Australian Army is restocking its Abrams training ammunition stocks with a major buy of M865 and M1001 training ammunition. |
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TS17 AUST/US/CANADIAN PARA DROP
KAPYONG DZ QLD: A combined Australian Special Operations, US Army and Canadian Army combat team flew all the way from Alaska to jump into Talisman Sabre. |
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TS17 ANZAC AMPHIBIOUS READY GROUP LANDING
SHOALWATER BAY: VIDEO - Combined Australian and New Zealand Anzac Amphibious Ready Group conducts a massed over the beach amphibious emplacement at SWBTA. |
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US MARINE AMPHIBIOUS REHEARSALS
COWLEY BEACH QLD: The US Bonhomme Richard Expeditionary Strike Group conducted rehearsal training at Cowley Beach Training Area for Ex Talisman Sabre 17 on July 8. |
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TALISMAN SABRE AMPHIBIOUS REHEARSALS
UPSTART BAY QLD: The Anzac Amphibious Ready Group conducted a Rehearsal of Concept Drill amphibious insertion near Ayr on July 8. |
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HMAS NEWCASTLE REPLACES ARUNTA IN MIDDLE EAST
MIDDLE EAST REGION: The Adelaide class frigate HMAS Newcastle has replaced HMAS Arunta on Op Manitou in the Middle East Region. |
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ABC ACCUSES SPECIAL FORCES OF CRIMINAL ACTIONS
AUSTRALIA: The ABC has broadcast allegations of official and unofficial criminal actions against Special Operations Command relating to operations in Afghanistan. |
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12 RAAF EA-18G GROWLERS AT AMBERLEY
RAAF AMBERLEY QLD: The RAAF's complete new fleet of 12 EA-18G Growlers have arrived at their permanent base at RAAF Amberley. |
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NEW YORKERS INBOUND FOR TALISMAN SABRE
QUEENSLAND: An Infantry Battle Group from the New York National Guard is flying Qld to participate in Talisman Sabre 17. |
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NORTH KOREA ICBM LAUNCH A THREAT TO AUST
AUSTRALIA: The North Korean launch of a possible Intercontinental Ballistic Missile holds extreme dangers for Australia because of old Cold War nuclear strategies. |
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BEERSHEBA DEAD IN YET ANOTHER REORG
AUSTRALIA: Chief of Army has instituted yet another Army Order of Battle reorganisation which will effectively end the Beersheba permanent force generation rotational cycle. |
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UPGRADED HAWK TRAINERS CERTIFIED IOC
AUSTRALIA: The RAAF's upgraded Hawk 127 Lead In Fighter Trainers have been achieved Initial Operational Capability certification. |
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RAAF E-7A WEDGETAIL AEW&C TO BE UPGRADED
AUSTRALIA: The Government has announced that the RAAF's fleet of Wedgetail Airborne Early Warning & Control aircraft will be upgraded. |
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3 BRIGADE NOW AUSTRALIAN READY BRIGADE
AUSTRALIA: The Lavarack Barracks Townsville based 3rd (Combat) Brigade commenced its rotation as Australian Army Ready Brigade on July 1. |
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RAAF EA-18G GROWLER FLEET INBOUND
AUSTRALIA: The RAAF's last eight EA-18G Growlers have left NAS Whidbey Island USA inbound for RAAF Amberley where they will join the four delivered in Feb. |
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TALISMAN SABRE 2017 SLIDE SHOW 1
NORTHERN TERRITORY: Imagery from the Talisman Sabre Field Training Exercise North 17 - the NT based splinter activity run concurrently with the Shoalwater Bay Training Area centric mega ex. |
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US NAVY VIOLATES CHINESE SOUTH CHINA SEA CLAIMS
SOUTH CHINA SEA: A US Navy warship has conducted a Freedom of Navigation Operation through the Paracel Islands in the South China Sea infuriating China. |
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FORCE PROTECTION ELEMENT 7 AFGHANISTAN
KABUL: VIDEO - Australian 7RAR Diggers from Force Protection Element 7 conducting security drills and operations in Kabul. |
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HMNZS TE KAHA JOINS CARRIER STRIKE GROUP 11
GUAM: The Royal New Zealand Navy Anzac class frigate HMNZS Te Kaha is operating with the US Navy's Carrier Strike Group 11 in the Western Pacific. |
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700 STRONG NZDF CONTINGENT FOR TS17
QUEENSLAND: The New Zealand Defence Force has deployed over 700 personnel, NZLAV armour, NH-90 helicopters and the MRV HMNZS Canterbury for Talisman Sabre 17. |
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NEXT GENERATION ADF CBRN GEAR
CANBERRA: The Government has approved the acquisition of next generation Counter Chemical Biolical Radiological and Nuclear protective equipment . |
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USMC MV-22B OSPREY FORMATION OVER SYDNEY
SYDNEY: The US Marine Corps conducted a formation flight of four MV-22B Osprey Tiltrotors over Sydney to signal the start of Talisman Sabre 17. |
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USMC F-35 LIGHTNING II TO FLY AT TS17
QUEENSLAND: The US Marine Corps will deploy its new F-35B Lightning STOVL joint strike fighters to Australia for Talisman Sabre according to US Navy commander. |
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US ARMY 25 COMBAT AVN BDE ARRIVES FOR TS17
QUEENSLAND: The US Army has deployed 13 AH-64 Apache. UH-60M Black Hawks and HH-60 AME Black Hawks from the 25th Combat Aviation Brigade to Qld for Talisman Sabre 2017. |
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ADF BACKED IRAQI UNITS CAPTURE AL NURI
MOSUL IRAQ: ADF & NZDF trained and advised Iraqi Counter Terrorist Service and Iraqi Federal Police have captured al Nuri mosque site - the birthplace of Islamic State's Caliphate. |
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OPERATION RESOLUTE FATALITY
NORTHERN WATERS: An RAN member has died during Border Protection operations on the new Cape class Patrol Boat ADV Cape Inscription. |
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HMAS ADELAIDE COMMENCES SEA TRIALS AFTER REPAIRS
SYDNEY: The RAN's Amphibious Assault Ship HMAS Adelaide has commenced Sea Trials to validate repairs to her propulsion system. |
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UP TO FIVE RAAF SPECIAL ELECTRONIC MISSION AIRCRAFT
WASHINGTON DC USA: The US Government has approved the sale of up to five AISREW Special Electronic Mission Aircraft to the RAAF. |
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SIXTH C-27J SPARTAN DELIVERED TO RAAF
RAAF RICHMOND NSW: The sixth C-27J Spartan Battlefield Airlifter has been delivered to 35 Squadron at RAAF Richmond NSW. |
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FORCES GATHER FOR TALISMAN SABRE 2017
QLD & NT: Contingents from Australia, the United States, New Zealand, Canada and Japan are concentrating at Shoalwater Bay Training Area and Mt Bundey Training Area for Ex Talisman Sabre 2017. |
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INDIA RAMPS UP NAVAL ENGAGEMENT WITH RAN
WA EXERCISE AREA: The Indian Navy deployed two modern low signature warships to Western Australia to build operational interoperability with the Royal Australian Navy. |
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RAAF ORIONS TO SUPPORT PHILIPPINE OFFENSIVE
PHILIPPINES: Two RAAF AP-3C Orions will be deployed to the Philippines to support the offensive operations against the Islamist Maute Group on Mindanao. |
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THE UNSEEN ANZAC
BOOK REVIEW: Jeff Maynards biography of SirGeorge Hubert Wilkens - the man who took Australia's epic World War 1 photos. Reviewed by J.H. Farrell |
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ADF AIRCRAFT SUPPORT PNG ELECTIONS
PAPUA NEW GUINEA: RAAF and Army transport aircraft and helicopters are operating in PNG under Operation Hannah in support of the PNG National Election 2017. |
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RAAF F-35A LIGHTNINGS GROUNDED IN USA
ARIZONA USA: Both RAAF F-35A Lightning IIs have been grounded with the rest of the international F-35A fleet at Luke AFB USA. |
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RAAF P-8A POSEIDON COMPLETES OP GATEWAY FLIGHTS
MALAYSIA: An RAAF P-8A Poseidon Maritime Patrol & Response Aircraft has successfully completed Operation Gateway surveillance operations. |
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USAF JOINT THREAT EMITTER RETURNS TO AUSTRALIA
NORTHERN TERRITORY: The USAF has redeployed its Joint Threat Emitter system to enrich the RAAF's Exercise Diamond Storm in the NT. |
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HMAS BALLARAT IN JAPANESE LED SOUTH CHINA SEA PASSAGE EXERCISE
SOUTH CHINA SEA: The Australian Anzac class Guided Missile Frigate HMAS Ballarat has participated in a Japanese led naval Passage Exercise with the US and Canada. |
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5RAR LEADS US ARMY, US MARINES & JAPANESE INFANTRY IN NT TRAINING
NORTHERN TERRITORY: The Australian Army has successfully completed high level combat training with the Japanese JGSDF, US Army and USMC in the NT. |
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ADF ACQUIRED THE WASP AE SMALL UNMANNED AERIAL SYSTEM
CANBERRA: The ADF has selected the Wasp AE Small Unmanned Aerial System to provide its small unit tactical ISR reconnaissance requirement. |
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THE DANGEROUS FEMINISATION OF THE ADF
AUSTRALIA: The terrifying truth is that diversity not National Security is now the highest priority of the Australian Defence Force..... |
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AUSTRALIAN & NZ DEFENDER NO 98
AUSTRALIA: Our Winter edition of Australian & NZ Defender is now available as a HTML5 flipper or PDF download. |
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NO DETAILS OF ADF AFGHAN EXPANSION
CANBERRA: The Government hasn't yet released any details of its force expansion in Afghanistan beyond the troop number increase announced on Monday. |
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AUSTRALIAN ARMY SKILL AT ARMS MEETING
PUCKAPUNYAL: VIDEO - Teams from 17 nations are competing at the Australian Army Skill At Arms Meeting at Puckapunyal Victoria. |
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FRENCH NAVY AMPHIBIOUS GROUP TRAINS WITH RAN
Darwin: The French Marine National Jeanne d'Arc Amphibious Task Group centred on the LHD FS Mistral is training with the RAN off Darwin. |
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NEW LAWS TO ENHANCE ADF TERRORISM RESPONSE
AUSTRALIA: The Government is drawing up new laws to enable the ADF to respond to terrorist incidents on Australian soil without relying on the States. |
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SUPER HORNETS RETURN TO IRAQ & SYRIA
MIDDLE EAST REGION: RAAF 1 Squadron F/A-18F Super Hornets have replaced 77 Squadron F/A-18HUG Hornets in the Australian bombing campaign against Islamic State. |
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JAPANESE JGSDF & US ARMY IN NT
NORTHERN TERRITORY: The Japanese Ground Self Defence Force and US Army have deployed to the NT to train with 5RAR and Marine MRF-Darwin in Ex Southern Jackaroo. |
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FIRST HX77 FLATRACK RESUPPLY
SHOALWATER BAY: 1CSSB has conducted the Army's first FX77 Series II High Mobility Truck 'flatrack' resupply with 2CER at Shoalwater Bay Training Area. |
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AN/ALQ-249 NEXT GENERATION JAMMER DEVELOPMENTS
USA: The AN/ALQ-249 Next Generation Jammer which will be used to upgrade the RAAF's new EA-18G Growlers is moving ahead. |
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RAN TESTING LHD DRIVE FIX
SYDNEY: The RAN is conducting at sea testing of an interim fix to the Canberra class Amphibious Assault Ship's drive problems. |
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HMAS SYDNEY OFF TO SCRAPPING
SYDNEY: Decommissioned FFG7 HMAS Sydney was towed out of Sydney Harbour on May 18 bound for scrapping in Western Australia. |
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RNZAF C-130H OPERATING IN MIDDLE EAST
MIDDLE EAST REGION: An RNZAF 40 Squadron C-130H Hercules is operating with the Australian Air Movements Task Group in the Middle East Region. |
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USAF & RAAF WORK TOWARDS RICIPRICAL C-17A MAINTENANCE
RAAF AMBERLEY: RAAF and USAF C-17A maintenance personnel trained together during Ex Pacific Agility to improve interoperability. |
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THE CRUISER HMAS AUSTRALIA II AND THE PACIFIC WAR ON JAPAN
BOOK REVIEW: Mike Carlton's informative history of HMAS Australia II in the Pacific War. Reviewed by J.H. Farrell |
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ARUNTA HEROIN SEIZURE VIDEO
EAST AFRICA: Video of HMAS Arunta's massive 250kg heroin sizure in the Indian Ocean off East Africa on May 10. |
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HMAS ARUNTA SIEZES HEROIN OFF AFRICA
EAST AFRICA SEAS: HMAS Arunta's Boarding Parties have seized 250kg of heroin during CMF operations in the Indian Ocean on May 10. |
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SOLDIER KILLED DURING TRAINING IN NT
MT BUNDEY NT: An Australian soldier has died of wounds sustained during a training activity at Mt Bundey south west of Darwin. |
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US ARMY TO REPLACE 5.56NATO CARTRIDGE
USA: The US Army is conducting research into a new intermediate cartridge to replace the inservice 5.56 x 45mm (5.56 NATO) round in the next gen service rifle. |
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PHILIPPINES DOWNGRADES EXERCISE WITH US/ADF
PHILIPPINES: The Philippines has downgraded Exercise Balikatan 2017 with Australia and the USA under orders from pro China President Duterte. |
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AUSTRALIANS AT THE ANAOA IN AFGHANISTAN
AFGHANISTAN: The Australian contingent at the Afghan National Army Officer Academy has facilitated a field evaluation exercise for senior Officer Cadets. |
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NZ ROLLS OUT MARS-L ASSAULT RIFLE
NEW ZEALAND: The New Zealand Army has commenced issuing the new 5.56mm Modular Assault Rifle System - Light as its standard issue Individual Weapon. |
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SOLDIER DIES AT SWBTA DURING TRAINING
SHOALWATER BAY: An Australian soldier was killed accidentally during a field exercise at Shoal Water Bay Training Area in central Qld. |
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USMC MV-22 OSPREYS ARRIVE IN DARWIN
DARWIN: VIDEO - Marine Rotational Force Darwin's four MV-22B Osprey Tiltrotors have arrived in Dawrwin. |
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US MARINES RETURN TO HELMAND AFGHANISTAN
AFGHANISTAN: A US Marine Corps Task Force has redeployed to Helmand Province Afghanistan three years after British Army and USMC forces withdrew. |
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RAAF ORDERS HARM & AARGM MISSILES FOR GROWLER
USA: The US DSCA has announced approval of a major Australian acquistion of AGM-88B High Speed Anti Radiation Missile (HARM) and the latest AGM-88E Advanced Anti Radiation Guided Missile (AARGM). |
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NEW ZEALAND REQUESTS P-8A POSEIDON
NEW ZEALAND: The New Zealand Government has requested four new P-8A Poseidon MPRAs to replace the RNZAF's aging P-3K2 fleet. |
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RAN SCHIEBEL S100 MTUAS CRASH
JERVIS BAY: One of the RAN's two new Schiebel S100 VTOL Maritime Tactical Unmanned Aerial Systems has crashed at Beecroft Air Weapons Range during contractor controlled training. |
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RNZAF NH-90 HELOS LIMITED FLIGHT OPS
NEW ZEALAND: The RNZAF's fleet of NH-90 Tactical Transport Helicopters remain on limited flight operations after an inflight engine failure on April 16. |
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AUGMENTED MARINE ROTATIONAL FORCE DARWIN DEPLOYED
DARWIN NT: Marine Rotational Force - Darwin 2017 has deployed with its AH-1W Super Cobras, UH-1Y Venoms and MV-22B Osprey Tiltrotors. |
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NEW RAN CAPE CLASS PATROL BOAT
HENDERSON WA: The first of two new Cape Class Patrol Boats ADV Cape Fourcroy has been delivered to Navy. |
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BALLARAT'S SOUTH EAST ASIA DEPLOYMENT
SOUTHEAST ASIA: HMAS BALLARAT is waving the Australian flag in a our month South East Asia Deployment conducting activities with the Chinese and Canadian Navys as well as regional powers. |
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SECOND CHINESE AIRCRAFT CARRIER
DALIAN CHINA: The Chinese Navy is close to launching its first locally made Aircraft Carrier which will bring its Navy to two Flat Tops. |
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M-777A2 ARTILLERY C-17A COMPATIBILITY TRIALS
RAAF AMBERLEY QLD: The Army and RAAF have conducted compatibility certification for the airlift of the M-777A2 LTH and the C-17A Globemaster III. |
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INFANTRY GETS ITS BUSHMASTERS BACK
NORTHERN TERRITORY: Bravo Company 5RAR has taken delivery of Bushmaster PMV-Ms from 1CSSB after Army decided to equip one of each Combat Brigade's two infantry battalions with Bushmasters again. |
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NEW RAN AVIATION TRAINING SHIP SEA TRIALS
VIETNAM: The RAN's new Multi Role Aviation Training Vessel has successfully completed Sea Trials and will be delivered to Sydney in May. |
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US MARINES TRAIN WITH PNGDF
PAPUA NEW GUINEA: The USMC 1/4 Marines are training with the PNGDF's 1st Battalion Royal Pacific Islands Regiment under the USA PNG Theatre Security Cooperation Agreement. |
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SECOND P-8A POSEIDON MPRA IN SERVICE
RAAF EDINBURGH: The RAAF's 11 Squadron is now operating two P-8A Poseidon Maritime Patrol & Response Aircraft after A47-002 was delivered. |
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AUST SF RESPOND TO MOSUL CHEMICAL ATTACK
MOSUL IRAQ: Australian Commandos from the Special Operations Task Group - Iraq responded to the chemical attack on 1st Iraqi Special Operations Forces Bde troops in Mosul. |
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ADFA TEAM COMPETES AT WEST POINT ACADEMY
NEW YORK USA: A Team of ADFA Officer Cadets has competed in the US Military Academy West Point's prestigious Sandhurst military skills competition at West Point. |
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ARUNTA EXTERNAL MAINTENANCE IN BAHRAIN
BAHRAIN: HMAS Arunta's External Maintenance Period in Bahrain has been a success with a fly in team readying the frigate for more MER Operations. |
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RAAF GROWLERS STILL IN AUSTRALIA
RAAF AMBERLEY: The four new Aussie EA-18G Growlers deployed for Avalon Airshow remain at RAAF Amberley in SE QLD. |
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RNZN NAMES NEW TANKER HMNZS AOTEAROA
NEW ZEALAND: The RNZN has announced that its next generation Auxiliary Oiler Replenishment will be commissioned as HMNZS Aotearoa. |
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3RAR LED TASK GROUP TAJI 5 READYING FOR IRAQ
TOWNSVILLE: Task Group Taji 5, led by 3RAR with a strong New Zealand Army component, is in the final phase of pre deployment training in Townsville. |
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AUSSIES NOW COMBAT ADVISORS IN IRAQ
TAJI IRAQ: The Australian Task Group Taji 4 is conducting Advise and Assist ops with the Iraqi North Baghdad Operational Command based at Taji Military Complex. |
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ADF TO ACQUIRE NASAMS 2 AIR DEFENCE
CANBERRA: The ADF will acquire an Australianised National Advanced Surface to Air Missile System II (NASAMS 2) as its next gen Ground Based Air Defence. |
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OPERATION QUEENSLAND ASSIST PHOTO FEATURE
QUEENSLAND: The ADF's Operation Queensland Assist 17 emergency response to the Cyclone Debbie disaster in the Whitsundays and Central Qld is winding down. |
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US STRIKE GROUP CANCELS AUSSIE VISIT
WESTERN PACIFIC: The US Navy's Carl Vinson Carrier Strike Group has cancelled its scheduled Aussie port visits to respond to North Korea missile launches and threats. |
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RAN SHIPS COMPLETE OP QLD ASSIST 17
CORAL SEA: The RAN ships HMAS Choules and HMAS Melville have returned to scheduled duties after completing their role in the Emergency Response to Cyclone Debbie. |
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US NAVY DESTROYS SYRIAN AIRBASE
SYRIA: The US Navy has launched a 60 BGM-109 missile strike on a Syrian Air Force Base in response to the Syrian Government's use of chemical weapons. |
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AUSTRALIA EXPANDS JOINT STRIKE MISSILE FUNDING
ADELAIDE: The Australian Goverment is expanding its investment in the Joint Strike Missile which employs the BAE Systems Australia Passive Radio Frequency Sensor. |
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F/A-18 HYPOXIA NO 1 SAFETY ISSUE - US NAVY
USA: The US Navy has reported to a congressional committee that F/A-18 oxygen supply issues are the number one safety risk to its personnel. |
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ARMY EMERGENCY RESPONSE NEW TFFF VEHICLE
COMBAT BRIGADES: The Army's three Combat Engineer Regiments have been issued new Oshkosh TFFF tactical Aircraft Rescue and Fire Fighting vehicles. |
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AUSTRALIANS IN AL ANBAR IRAQ
AL TAQADDUM IRAQ: An Australian Training Team is conducting a Build Partner Capacity activity at Camp Manion near Falujah in Al Anbar Province Iraq. |
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CAS LINE UP OVER MOSUL
MOSUL IRAQ: Slideshow of the Coalition Offensive Air campaign in support of the Iraqi ground offensive to expel Islamic State from the ancient city. |
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REPAIRED C-27J SPARTAN AIRLIFTER AT RICHMOND
RAAF RICHMOND NSW: The C-27J Spartan damaged in a rough landing in Texas in May 2016 has been repaired and delivered to Australia. |
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OP QUEENSLAND ASSIST 17
WHITSUNDAYS: The ADF has launched Operation Queensland Assist 17 to provide Disaster Relief for the victims of Cyclone Debbie in north Queensland. |
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CHOULES SAILS FOR QLD CYCLONE ZONE
SYDNEY: HMAS Choules sailed for the Whitsundays on March 27 as Cyclone Pam threaten to cross the coast between Bowen and Shute Harbour. |
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BOTH CANBERRA AAS DOCKED WITH PROBLEMS
SYDNEY: Both of the RAN's Canberra Class Amphibious Assault Ships are docked after a fault in their Azimuth Pod propulsion system was detected. |
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US F/A-18E SUPERS JOIN ADF JTAC COUSE
TOWNSVILLE: No 58 Joint Terminal Attack Controller Course is employing US Navy F/A-18E Super Hornets to deliver ordnance for its JTAC students. |
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HATS H135 HELO CONVERSION FLIGHT BEGIN
NOWRA NSW: The Boeing Defence Australia provided Helicopter Aircrew Training System (HATS) has commenced conversion of its instructors on the new H135 Training Helicopter at HMAS Albatross. |
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AUSSIE SPEC OPS IN AFRICA VIDEO
NIGER: US Special Operations Command Africa video featuring Australian Special Forces armed with AK-47s conducting Mounted Operations training with Forces Armees Nigeriennes (FAN) troops. |
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FIJIAN BUSHMASTERS FLOWN TO BEIRUT
LEBANON: Three of ten Bushmaster PMVs acquired from Australia by Fiji have been flown to Beirut by RAAF C-17A for Fiji UN Peace Keepers. |
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TIGER ARH AT SEA FLIGHT TRIALS
CORAL SEA: The RAN is conducting First of Class Flight Trials with the Tiger Armed Reconnaissance Helicopter from the Amphibious Assault Ship HMAS Canberra.. |
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SPACE SURVEILLANCE RADAR OPERATIONAL
EXMOUTH WA: The joint Australian/US C Band Space Surveillance Radar in Western Australia has achieved Full Operational Capability. |
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ARMOURED ENGINEER ASSAULT ACQUISITION
CANBERRA: The Australian Army will acquire heaviliy armoured Assault Breacher Vehicles, Armoured Vehicle Launched Bridges and Armoured Combat Mobility Vehicles. |
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ARMY SEEKS 90 UPGRADED ABRAMS
CANBERRA: The Australian Army is seeking a fleet of 90 upgraded Abrams Main Battle Tanks to effectively equip its three Armoured Cavalry Regiments. |
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KIWI ANZAC FRIGATE UPGRADE BEGINS
DEVONPORT NZ: The RNZN Anzac Frigate Combat Systems Upgrade is gaining momentum with training simulators operational and Te Kaha soon bound for Canada. |
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LOCKHEED MARTIN DECLARES AWD AEGIS READY
Osborne SA: Lockheed Martin has announced that the Hobart class Air Warfare Destroyer AEGIS Combat System is ready for service after acceptance trials. |
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AUSSIE SPECIAL FORCES IN AFRICA
REP OF NIGER: Australian Special Operations Command personnel are assisting Niger's Army fight Islamists in West Africa under the US SOF Africa's Ex Flintlock 2017. |
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USAF AGGRESSOR F-16Cs FLYING AT WILLIAMTOWN
WILLIAMTOWN NSW: The USAF Pacific Air Force's elite 18th Aggressor Squadron is flying out of RAAF Williamtown supporting the RAAF Fighter Combat Instructor course. |
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USAF F-22A RAPTOR NT AERIAL REFUEL
TINDAL NT: Brilliant pictorial of USAF 90th Fighter Squadron F-22A Raptors refueling from a USAF KC-135 over the wilds of the Australian Northern Territory. |
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FIJI SIGNS BUSHMASTER ACQUISITION CONTRACT
ENOGGERA QLD: The Republic of Fiji Military Forces has officially contracted for ten ex Australian Army Bushmaster Protected Mobility Vehicles to use on UN Ops. |
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ANZAC ASMD UPGRADE COMPLETE
HENDERSON WA: The RAN Anzac Frigate Anti Ship Missile Defence Upgrade Project is complete with HMAS Stuart returning to the water for trials. |
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US MARINES & RANGERS ENTER SYRIA
NORTHERN SYRIA: US Marine Corps force elements with artillery have deployed into north eastern Syria to support the US Special Operations Forces mission with the Kurds. |
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EX OCEAN EXPLORER 17 JOINT TASK GROUP
WESTERN AUSTRALIA: The RAN was joined by the RNZN, US Navy, Italian Marina Militare and Espania Armada for Ex Ocean Explorer 2017. Pic RAN. |
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AUSTRALIAN & NZ DEFENDER NO 97
AUSTRALIA: Our Autumn edition - Australian & NZ Defender magazine No 97 is available for electronic viewing right now. |
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F-35A A35-001 WALKAROUND AT RAAF AMBERLEY
RAAF AMBERLEY: The RAAF put on a limited viewing of F-35A Lightning II A35-001 at RAAF Amberley for RAAF personnel, contractors and defence media. |
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AWD HOBART COMPLETES SEA ACCEPTANCE TRIALS
ADELAIDE: Nuship Hobart, the first RAN Air Warfare Destroyer, successfully completed Sea Acceptance Trials on March 6. |
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ARMY IS ASSESSING AH-64E GUARDIAN APACHE
CANBERRA: The Australian Army will replace its inservice Tiger ARH gunships and is assessing the AH-64E Guardian helicopter. |
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KC-30A MRTT AUTOMATIC AERIAL REFUELLING
SPAIN: The RAAF and Airbus Military are to jointly develop Automatic Aerial Refuelling capability for the KC-30A MRTT. |
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ARUNTA SEIZES 800KG OF HASH IN MER
ARABIAN SEA: HMAS Arunta conducted a successful Vessel Boarding Search & Seizure operation which resulted in 800kg of Hashish. Pic ADF. |
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AUSTRALIAN ANA OFFICER ACADEMY OPS KABUL
AFGHANISTAN: Australian Operations reinforcing the training of the Afghan National Army's next generations of officers at the ANA Officer Academy continue. Pic ADF. |
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RAAF EA-18G GROWLERS MAKE PUBLIC DEBUT
AVALON VIC: The RAAF's new EA-18G Growler Airborne Electronic Attack aircraft where publically revealed in Australia on March 1. |
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RAAF F-35A LIGHTNING IIs IN AUSTRALIA
AMBERLEY QLD: The RAAF's two F-35A Lightning II combat aircraft arrived in Australia at RAAF Amberley yesterday prior to their pubic debut at the Avalon Air Show. |
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SPANISH AWD COMMENCES OPERATIONS WITH RAN
FREMANTLE WA: The Spanish Armada's ESPS Christobal Colon has commenced its four month detachment with the Royal Australian Navy. |
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INDONESIA RESTORES MILITARY COOPERATION
SYDNEY: Indonesian President Joko Widodo announced the full restoration of military cooperation with Australia during his official visit on February 26. |
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FOUR EA-18G GROWLERS ARRIVE AT AMBERLEY
AMBERLEY: Four 6 Squadron RAAF EA-18G Growler Airborne Electronic Attack Aircraft have arrived at RAAF Base Amberley ahead of their debut at Avalon. |
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AUSSIE SOTG-IRAQ OPERATING NEAR MOSUL
MOSUL IRAQ: The ADF has confirmed that the Australian Special Operations Task Group - Iraq is forward deployed near Mosul supporting the Iraqi 1st Special Operations Forces Bde. Pic ADF. |
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COMBAT RECONNAISSANCE VEHICLE CONVERSION
PUCKAPUNYAL: The Army has commenced Crew Conversion Training on the Land 400 Phase 2 Mounted Combat Reconnaissance Capability vehicles. |
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PREPARING JDAMS TO DROP ON ISIS
UNITED ARAB EMIRATES: RAAF and USAF Armament Technicians prepare GBU-54 LJDAM Precision Guided Munitions for use against Islamic State. Pic ADF. |
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US EOD MOBILE UNIT 5 & CDT4 TRAIN IN WA
COCKBURN SOUND: RAN CDT4 Clearance Divers and US Navy EOD Mobile Unit 5 Divers conducted a Very Shallow Water Subject Matter Expert Exchange in early Feb. |
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TIGER ARH TRIALS ON HMAS CANBERRA
NORTHERN TERRITORY: The Army's 1st Aviation Regiment is preparing for Tiger Armed Reconnaissance Helicopter First of Class Flight Trials on HMAS Canberra. |
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ADF KOWTOWING IS DAMAGING OUR REPUTATION
INDONESIA: The decision to send the Chief of Army to Jakarta to deliver a humiliating public apology has caused the ADF to loose face in Indonesia and severly damaged the ADF's standing in Asia..... |
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RAN ORDERS S100 VERTICAL TAKE OFF UAS
CANBERRA: The RAN has ordered two Schiebel S100 Vertical Take Off Unmanned Aerial Systems to begin interim VTOL TUAS operations. |
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ITALIAN FREMM FRIGATE ITS CARABINIERE IN AUSTRALIA
JERVIS BAY NSW: The Italian Maritime Militare FREMM frigate ITS Carabiniere is visiting Australia to familiarise the RAN with the warship's capabilities. |
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FIJI ORDERS 10 BUSHMASTER PMV-M
FIJI: Fiji has ordered ten ex Australian Army Bushmaster Protected Mobility Vehicles - Medium for use by its Peace Keepers in the Golan Heights. |
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FIRST F-22A RAPTORS ARRIVE AT RAAF TINDAL
RAAF TINDAL NT: A Squadron of USAF F-22A Raptor Air Dominance Fighters have arrived at RAAF Tindal in the Northern Territory for the first rotational EAC deployment. |
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US COAST GUARD VBSS TRAINING IN BAHRAIN
BAHRAIN: RAN Boarding Parties undergo advanced Vessel Boarding Search & Seizure training at the US Coast Guard's Ship in a Box training facility in Bahrain. |
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RAAF COMBAT CONTROLLERS LANDING ZONE RECON
NEVADA USA: RAAF Combat Controllers conduct an Advance Force Landing Zone Reconnaissance airfield survey during Red Flag 17-1. |
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EA-18G GROWLER CONVERSION UNDERWAY IN USA
USA: 6 Squadron RAAF has commenced flying Australian EA-18G Growlers during operational conversion at NAS Whidbey Island in Washington State. |
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ADF's MULTI ROLE AVIATION TRAINING SHIP ARRIVES IN MAY
VIETNAM: The ADF's new Multi Role Aviation Training Ship (MRATV) is undergoing sea trials in Vietnam with its delivery to Australia scheduled for May. |
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NAVY & TAG CONDUCT SPECIAL OP OFF TASMANIA
INDIAN OCEAN: A Tactical Assault Group operation from HMAS Adelaide has resulted in a massive seizure of cocaine in the Indian Ocean between South Australia and Tasmania. |
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DARWIN MARINES WILL DEPLOY MORE AIRCRAFT
DARWIN NT: The Marine Rotational Force - Darwin 2017 will deploy a Medium Tiltrotor Squadron of four MV-22B Osprey tiltrotors augmented with five AH-1W Super Cobras and four UH-1Y Venom helicopters. |
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AIR WARFARE DESTROYER LAUNCH & CAT 5 SEA TRIALS
SOUTH AUSTRALIA: Air Warfare Destroyer 1 Nuship Adelaide has commenced Category 5 Sea Trials after Air Warfare Destroyer 2 Brisbane was launched in December. |
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FIRST OF TWO NEW INDONESIAN MULTI ROLE FRIGATES
INDONESIA: The TNI-AL has accepted the first of two locally built Martadinata-class (modified Damen Schelde Sigma 105 PKR) low observable multi role frigates. |
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PUTTING PORK IN PYNE'S SOUTH AUSTRALIAN BARREL
AUSTRALIA: The perception that the Defence acquisition budget will be used by the Minister for Defence Industry Christopher Pyne to support job making activities in his own electoral region is distorting Australia's National Security programs..... |
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RAAF UPGRADES C-130J HERCULES WITH LAIRCM DEFENCE SYSTEM
UAE: The RAAF has installed the AN/AAQ-24 (V) LAIRCM Large Aircraft Infrared Counter Measures on its C-130J Hercules fleet in the Middle East. |
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R400 REMOTE WEAPONS SYSTEMS UPGRADED
AUSTRALIA: A second tranche of EOS R400 Remote Weapons Systems will be upgraded to R400S stabilised and shoot on the move capable systems. |
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COMBAT RECONNAISSANCE VEHICLES COMMENCE TRIALS
AUSTRALIA: The AMV-35 and Boxer Combat Reconnaissance Vehicles have commenced competitive Risk Reduction Activity testing in Australia and Europe. |
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VALIANT FOR TRUTH
BOOK REVIEW: Niel McDonalds's Valiant For Truth: The Life of Chester Wilmot War Correspondent. Reviewed by J.H. Farrell |
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INDONESIA SUSPENDS/REINSTATES MILITARY COOPERATION
INDONESIA: The Indonesian Chief of the Combined Staff unilaterally suspended TNI Military Cooperation with Australiabefore being over ruled by the Indonesian Defence Minister 36 hours later. |
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RAAF F-35A DROPS FIRST GBU AFTER SOFTWARE UPDATE
ARIZONA USA: The RAAF has commenced live ordnance delivery of a GBU-10 Paveway II with its F-35A Lightning II after a software upgrade to Block 3i. |
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NORTH WEST SHELF RESOURCE AREA MSO
NORTH WEST SHELF WA: SLIDESHOW - 11 images of the upgraded Anzac class frigate HMAS Ballarat patroling through gas and oil platforms in the Indian Ocean off the Pilbara. |
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USAF TO ROTATE F-22A RAPTOR THROUGH AUSTRALIA
NORTHERN TERRITORY: The US Air Force will rotate the F-22A Raptor through RAAF Northern Territory bases beginning later this year. |
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SOCOMD-A COMBAT SHOOTER COURSEMAJURA ACT: NCOs from 3rd Brigade underwent advanced instruction at the prototype Combat Shooter Course which employs SASR techniques and advanced range technology. |
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SASR ADRHIB PARACHUTE LOAD FOLLOWRAAF PEARCE WA: Slideshow imagery of the SASR conducting a Parachute Load Follow water insertion with F470 Inflatable Assault Boats and Air Drop Rigid Hulled Inflatable Boats. |
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RAAF CONSIDERS SIXTH GENERATION AIRCRAFT
CANBERRA: The RAAF's will explore the possibility of future Sixth Generation Combat Aircraft before opting for a final tranche of 28 F-35A Lightning II. |
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ARDU COMPLETE DEVELOPMENT ON THE CLASSIC HORNET
RAAF EDINBURGH SA: The RAAF's Aircraft Research & Development Unit transferred its F/A-18 Classic Hornets back to Air Combat Group after completing the final Hornet research projects finalising work that went for 24 years. |
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LAV FIRE SUPPORT VEHICLE TRIALSMT BUNDEY TA NT: In 1998 while the Army was in the early phase of ASLAV operations, two very interesting LAV variants were trialed by 2nd Cavalry Regiment. |
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USAF B-1A BOMBERS TO ROTATE THROUGH RAAF BASESRAAF TINDAL NT: The US Air Force will substantially increase its activities in Australia from 2017 under its Enhanced Air Cooperation Initiative which is part of the larger Force Posture Initiative. |
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SIX NEW M-88A2 HERCULES VEHICLES DELIVERED
AUSTRALIA: The Australian Army was taken delivery of six new M-88A2 Hercules Heavy Recovery Vehicles allowing it to raise a third Armoured Cavalry Regiment in 7th Brigade. |
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F/A-18F SPIRAL UPGRADES
CANBERRA: The RAAF’s F/A-18F Rhino fleet will be significantly more capable if the US Navy’s Super Hornet Spiral Upgrade Program ‘F/A-18E/F Flight Plan’ spiral capability development is adopted. |
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6 SQUADRON FINAL RHINO FLIGHT
RAAF AMBERLEY SEQ: RAAF No 6 Squadron has ceased operating the F/A-18F Rhino as it prepares to commence conversion to the EA-18G Growler Airborne Electronic Attack (AEA) aircraft in the USA.
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UNSUCCESSFUL MOUNTED COMBAT RECONNAISSANCE VEHICLES
CANBERRA: We explore the unsuccessful Mounted Combat Reconnaissance Capability contenders - the Team Sentinel Sentinel II and General Dynamics Land Systems Australia LAV CRV. |
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INDONESIAN EX-RAAF C-130H FATAL CRASH
PAPUA PROVINCE INDONESIA: A former RAAF C-130H that was gifted to Indonesia has been destroyed in a fatal crash in Papua Province. |
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SPECIAL OPERATIONS TASK GROUP - IRAQIRAQ: The 80-strong 2nd Commando Regiment (2Cdo) led Special Operations Task Group – Iraq (SOTG-Iraq) is preparing Iraq's Counter Terrorist Service for war with Islamic State. |
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TASK GROUP TAJI FORCE PROTECTION COMPANYTAJI IRAQ: The C Company 7RAR TGT Force Protection Company rotated in place with the incoming Task Group Taji 4 Force Protection Company crewed by C Coy 5RAR. |
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AUSTRALIAN AIR TASK GROUP INTERDICTION OF ISLAMIC STATEIRAQ & SYRIA: The RAAF’s Air Task Group (ATG) is the only Australian force element tasked with direct combat operations against Islamic State under Operation Okra. |
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LEASED CAPE CLASS PATROL BOATS LAUNCHED
HENDERSON WA: Sea trials for the RAN’s two new build Cape Class Patrol Boats (CCPB) will commence in January with two vessels soon in RAN service. |
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TOWNSVILLE TA & SHOALWATER BAY TA EXPANSION
QUEENSLAND: The Townsville Training Area (TTA) and Shoalwater Bay Training Area (SWBTA) are to be upgraded by the Singaporean Defence Force. |
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FORMER SOTG VIII OPERATOR TAKES LEGAL ACTION
VICTORIA: A former SOTG Operator has taken out a legal action for malicious prosecution against the Army. |
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AUSTRALIA US MARINE CORPS COST SHARING AGREEMENTAUSTRALIA: The Australian and US Governments have successfully concluded cost sharing arrangements for the USMC's Marine Rotational Force - Darwin and USAF and USN use of ADF bases. |
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TASK GROUP TAJI BUILD PARTNER CAPACITY MISSIONTAJI IRAQ: Task Group Taji is currently in its fourth rotation (TGT4), with the 5RAR led Task Group Taji 4 operating from CJTF-OIR's Build Partner Capacity Centre at Taji Military Complex. |
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ANAO REPORT SAVAGES ARH TIGER HELICOPTER
CANBERRA: The Australian National Audit Office (ANAO) released an extremely critical report on the failures of the Armed Reconnaissance Helicopter acquisition project on September 1. |
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NEXT GEN NIGHT FIGHTING SYSTEMS
CANBERRA: The ADF has finalised its next generation of weapon night aiming/illumination systems; laser range finding/targeting systems, night vision goggles and helmet attachment devices. |
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RAN MIDDLE EAST MARITIME SECURITY OPSARABIAN & AFRICAN WATERS: HMAS Perth's Maritime Security Operations within Combined Maritime Forces in the Middle East and East Africa continues the RAN's long commitment. |
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USAF PARARESCUE COMBAT SEARCH & RESCUETOWNSVILLE QLD: The United States Air Force’s legendary Combat Search and Rescue (CSAR) capability was demonstrated at ADF training areas around Townsville. |
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FIRST RAAF P-8A POSEIDON DELIVERED
EDINBURGH SA: The first Royal Australian Air Force P-8A Poseidon Maritime Patrol and Response Aircraft has entered service with 11 Squadron which will conduct P-8A Entry in to Service.
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NEXT GENERATION 40MM HIGH VELOCITY GRENADES
CANBERRA:The ADF's new L-40-2 Lightweight Automatic Grenade Launcher employs sophisticated very accurate 'smart' High Velocity 40 x 53mm grenades. |
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TRAIN ADVISE & ASSIST COMMAND - AIR AFGHANISTANAFGHANISTAN: ADF personnel embedded with CJTF - Operation Resolute Support's Train Advise & Assist Command - Air participated in an Afghan Air Force aerial rocket live fire activity. |
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RAN UNMANNED AERIAL SYSTEMS TAKE FLIGHT
CHRISTMAS ISLAND: CHRISTMAS ISLAND: The Royal Australian Navy completed an operational surveillance employment of the ScanEagle Unmanned Aerial System from Christmas Island. |
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SUB CONTRACTS SIGNED AFTER DCNS SECRET DATA LEAKED
CANBERRA: The Australian Government has signed initial development contracts for the next generation submarine in the wake of the DCNS sub secrets leak. |
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EF-88 ENHANCED AUSTEYR MWS ENTERS SERVICE
TOWNSVILLE: Broad scale issue of the ADF’s next generation individual weapon - the Thales EF-88M Enhanced Austeyr has commenced in North Queensland. |
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FORCE PROTECTION ELEMENT AFGHANISTANAFGHANISTAN: Australian operations in Afghanistan are secured by the Operation Highroad Force Protection Element (currently 7RAR led Force Protection Element 6). |
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RAAF F-35A FLEET UNDER THREAT FROM COSTS AND TRUMP
USA: The RAAF's acquisition of the F-35A Lightning II has been complicated by President Elect Trump's warning that the program is too expensive and running too late. |
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KIWI NZSAS TO ACQUIRE SUPACAT SOV-MH
NEW ZEALAND: The New Zealand Army is acquiring the Supacat Extenda 2 Special Operations Vehicle - Mobility Heavy, (SOV-MH). |
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MK 47/L40-2 LAGLS ENTERS SERVICE
PORT WAKEFIELD SA: The Australian Army has commenced full scale issue of its new General Dynamics 40x53mm Mk 47 Mod 1 Lightweight Automatic Grenade Launching System (LAGLS). |
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AIR WARFARE DESTROYER HOBART SEA TRIALS
MELBOURNE: The Royal Australian Navy's Air Warfare Destroyer (AWD) acquisition has progressed with Contractor Sea Trials on the lead vessel |
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AFGHAN NATIONAL ARMY OFFICER ACADEMY OPSAFGHANISTAN: Australian Instructor Mentors play a major role in developing the Afghan National Army at the Afghan National Army Officer Academy at Qargha near Kabul. |
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(ADF Video) ANAOA INSTRUCTOR MENTORINGAFGHANISTAN: Australian Army Senior Non-Commissioned Officers and Officers are demonstrating by practical example the Australian way of developing future leaders of the ANA.
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(ADF Video) ANAOA INSTRUCTOR MENTORINGAFGHANISTAN: ADF members provide mentoring and force protection to advise and assist the Academy’s Afghan instructors as part of a five-nation, British-led task force operating from nearby Camp Qargha. |
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POTENTIAL ARH TIGER HELICOPTER REPLACEMENTS
CANBERRA: The ADF is looking for a next generation aerial fire support and target acquisition platform to replace the Tiger ARH. |
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COMBAT RECONNAISSANCE VEHICLE SHORT LIST
CANBERRA: Army’s new Mounted Combat Reconnaissance Capability has moved forward with the down selection of BAE Systems Australia AMV35 and the Rheinmetall Landsystem Gmbh Boxer CRV. |
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TIGER ARH TO BE RETIRED EARLY
CANBERRA: The Australian Army’s AS665 Tiger Armed Reconnaissance Helicopter (ARH) will be withdrawn from service in seven years under an upgrade for the Australian Army Aviation Corps. |
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RENDER SAFE 2016SOLOMON ISLANDS: The Australian Defence Force’s annual Explosive Ordnance
Disposal (EOD) activity Exercise Render Safe 2016 returned to the Solomon Islands in September. |
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EXERCISE PITCH BLACK 2016TOP END NT: Exercise Pitch Black 2016 saw more than 2500 personnel from ten countries concentrate in the Northern Territory for a high intensity air warfare training exercise. |
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CANBERRA CLASS LHDS DEFENCE SYSTEMS UPGRADED
SYDNEY: The RAN’s Canberra-class Amphibious Assault Ships will have their self defence capability upgraded with the installation of additional missile defence guns. |
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RAN & RAAF C-27J SPARTAN ACQUISITION BEHIND SCHEDULE
RICHMOND NSW: The RAAF has certified Initial Operating Capabilty for the Spartan C-27J Spartan Battlefield Airlifter fleet and taken delivery of the fifth aircraft. |
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RAN ACQUIRES SM2 BLOCK IIIB SURFACE TO AIR MISSILES
SYDNEY: The Royal Australian Navy is acquiring stocks of the Raytheon RIM-66M-09 SM 2 Block IIIB Standard Missile as its next generation Surface to Air Missile. |
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RAN & RNZN ORDER NEW UNDERWAY OILERS
CANBERRA: The Royal Australian Navy will upgrade its Underway Oiler Replenishment capability with the acquisition of two Navantia designed AORs. |
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ADF EXPLORING NEXT GEN GROUND BASED AIR DEFENCE
CANBERRA: The Australian Army will replace its long serving Ground Based Air Defence (GBAD) System with a new flexible mission air defence system. |
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EF-88 ACCESSORIES AND OPTICS
TOWNSVILLE: The full schedule of EF-88 on rifle Sighting Systems and Sighting System Enhancers issue has commenced to 3rd Brigade units in Townsville. |
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CH-47F CHINOOK FLEET EXPANDED TO TEN HELICOPTERS
TOWNSVILLE: The three additional CH-47F Chinook helicopters for the Australian Army announced in January were delivered in June bring the fleet to 10 Chinooks. |
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CANBERRA CLASS AAS CERTIFY MULTIPLE PLATFORMS
HAWAII: The RAN’s Canberra-class Amphibious Assault Ships are completing certifications to operate with different helicopters, landing craft and vehicles. |
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PROJECT OVERLANDER TRUCKS ENTER SERVICE
BRISBANE: The Army has accepted the first of almost 2700 Rheinmetall MAN Military Vehicles (RMMV) heavy and medium trucks to be acquired under Project Overlander. |
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RAAF GBU-39B SMALL DIAMETER BOMB ORDER
USA: The Royal Australian Air Force will acquire substantial stocks of the Boeing Integrated Defence Systems GBU-39/B Small Diameter Bomb to arm its F-35A Lightning II combat aircraft. |
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HELICOPTER AIRCREW TRAINING SYSTEM
TOWNSVILLE: The Australian Defence Force’s new Helicopter Aircrew Training System (HATS) is evolving at the RAN’s Naval Air Station Nowra - HMAS Albatross, NSW. |
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AIM-120D AMRAAM FOR RAAF F-35, F/A-18F and EA-18G
USA: The RAAF is acquiring the next generation Raytheon Missile Systems AIM-120D Advanced Medium Range Air to Air Missile (AMRAAM) for its combat fleet. |
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SECOND ARMOURED CAVALRY REGIMENT ESTABLISHED
TOWNSVILLE: The Army is activating its second full strength Armoured Cavalry Regiment under the Plan Beersheba Order of Battle. |
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ARMY RIVERINE COMBAT CAPABILITY TO BE RESTORED
CANBERRA: The Defence White Paper 2016 announced the reactivation of an Army based Riverine Operations capability which had been lost for decades. |
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WHITEPAPER: FUTURE LONG RANGE ROCKET ARTILLERY
CANBERRA: The Defence White Paper 2016 details a requirment for a new long-range rocket system in the mid 2020s to defeat threats to our personnel at ranges up to 300km.” |
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DCNS FUTURE SUBMARINE PLANS
CANBERRA: The Australian Government has revealed some details of the DCNS Shortfin Barracuda Block 1A SSG that will replace the RAN's six Collins class submarines. |
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ADF TO ACQUIRE LAND BASED ANTI SHIP MISSILES
CANBERRA: The Defence White Paper 2016 announced that Australia would acquire a mobile land based Anti Ship Missile (ASM) capability. |
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(ADF Video) BUSHMASTER PROTECTED MOBILITY VEHICLES
AFGHANISTAN:The Australian Army Bushmaster Protected Mobility Vehicles (PMVs) and crew provide transportation and protection to Australian troops travelling within Kabul, Afghanistan. |
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(ADF Video) ANAOA GRADUATION AFGHANISTAN: Graduation of the 342 officer cadets, including nine women, of 1st Kandak (battalion) from the Afghan National Army Officer Academy (ANAOA). |
