2 May 2023
Australia has been working with 19 nations to prepare for humanitarian and disaster relief (HADR) missions as part of Exercise Croix Du Sud.
The exercise, which began on April 24 and finishes on May 6, is led by the French Armed Forces New Caledonia and includes a wide range of partners in order to increase the complexity and relevance of HADR training to all participants.
Australia’s involvement in the exercise includes a Royal Australian Air Force C-27J Spartan, the Australian Defence Vessel Reliant and a company of soldiers from the 6th Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment.
Commander of the ADF contingent Captain John Cowan said the exercise is developing support and coordination between security partners.
“We are an integral part of the community of nations in the south-west Pacific and equally we are comfortable operating, as we often do, with European nations,” Captain Cowan said.
“Along with our French hosts, we have a role in bringing together those two diverse groups of nations and ensuring we build our combined operating capabilities together.”
An important part of Australia’s HADR missions is the support the ADF provides to whole-of-government responses.
“Our ability to support HADR operations within the region is an importance aspect of remaining prepared,” Captain Cowan said.
“These activities ensure we are ready for the next time we are called upon to assist our neighbours.”
