Soldiers and police combine response skills
Soldiers and members of the Queensland Police Service (QPS) took part in Exercise Arras to strengthen cooperation and coordination of roles in a simulated response to a domestic emergency.
CAPTION: Australian Army personnel from 9th Battalion with Queensland Police Service during Exercise Arras integration in Brisbane. Story by Captain Cath Batch. Photo by Lieutenant Nicolas Hawkins.
The 9th Battalion, Royal Queensland Regiment soldiers attended the QPS Bob Atkinson Operational Capabilities Centre at Wacol to observe their training and learn about the differences between QPS and Australian Defence Force (ADF) techniques.
The week-long exercise in late May focused on training, capacity building and building public confidence and trust.
QPS Deputy Commissioner Shane Chelepy said coordination was key to properly prepare for emergency situations.
“In Queensland, the learning and ultimately the success of interoperability between the QPS and ADF during the COVID-19 response demonstrated the benefits of what can be achieved,” Deputy Commissioner Chelepy said.
“Queenslanders can feel confident that QPS and ADF are ready to work together in a unified response to various emergency challenges, and can reassure the public while fostering a sense of safety.”
Commander 11th Brigade Brigadier Mark Armstrong said the benefits of interoperability provided by Exercise Arras enabled the exchange of systems and personnel to make use of information in real time.
“Connecting with our interagency partners in scenario-based planning and sharing ideas is key to ongoing success,” Brigadier Armstrong said.
“Initiatives like Exercise Arras between the QPS and ADF help develop a shared understanding of each other’s capabilities, and tactical and operational procedures.”
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