Ambitious amphibious exercise begins
The largest combined joint activity between the ADF and Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI) recently got underway.
CAPTION: Soldiers from 5th Battalion, the Royal Australian Regiment, and Indonesian National Armed Forces personnel conduct urban training at Robertson Barracks, NT. Story by Lieutenant Commander Gary McHugh. Photos by Corporal Janet Pan.
Exercise Keris Woomera 2024 (KW24), which involves about 2000 personnel, will feature air, maritime, amphibious and land operations, as well as a humanitarian assistance and disaster relief evacuation scenario.
Taking place in Australia and Indonesia, KW24 highlights the ongoing cooperation between the two countries, which was strengthened by the recent signing of the Australia-Indonesia Defence Cooperation Agreement.
As part of the exercise, 32 members of the TNI embarked HMAS Adelaide to conduct integration training with their ADF counterparts and the Australian Amphibious Force (AAF).
The initial integration training took place at Robertson Barracks, Darwin, implemented by 5th Battalion, the Royal Australian Regiment.
TNI Head of Delegation Lieutenant Colonel Empri Airudin said KW24 aimed to increase the understanding and capabilities of the TNI when working with the ADF and interoperability between the two nations.
CAPTION: Indonesian National Armed Forces personnel undertake familiarisation training with the EF88 Austeyr rifle.
“Moreover, this joint exercise is also part of a military diplomacy where we are building trust and strengthening the partnership between Indonesia and Australia,” he said.
“It can also be regarded as a way of maintaining security and stability in the region.”
The AAF, which involves elements of all three ADF services, is comprised of infantry, armoured vehicles, protected mobility, artillery, attack and lift aviation, unmanned aerial systems, as well as logistics vehicles, vessels and personnel.
Commander of the Australian Task Force Captain Chris Doherty said exercises such as KW24 ensured the AAF could provide the Australian Government with the ability to rapidly deploy forces in response to a range of missions.
“This bilateral exercise will test all facets of the AAF, and allow all its components to work effectively together as a cohesive team with our Indonesian partners,” Captain Doherty said.
Exercise Keris Woomera will culminate with a combined joint live-fire exercise consisting of tanks, artillery, infantry and attack helicopters.
The exercise is part of Indo-Pacific Endeavour 2024, Australia’s largest international engagement activity in the region.
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