Explosive end to combined activity in Indonesia

After months of preparation and an intensive week-long period of putting those plans into action, Exercise Keris Woomera has come to a close in East Java, Indonesia.

CAPTION: An Australian Army M1A1 Abrams fires while working side-by-side with Indonesian National Armed Forces Leopard 2 tanks during a combined joint live-fire practice on Exercise Keris Woomera 2024 in East Java, Indonesia. Story by Lieutenant Commander Gary McHugh. Photo by Leading Seaman David Cox.

Keris Woomera, a component of the ADF’s wider Indo-Pacific Endeavour, represents the largest ever combined joint activity between Australia and Indonesia.

Commander of the Australian Task Force Captain Chris Doherty, of the Royal Australian Navy, said Keris Woomera was an outstanding success, and significantly deepened the bond between the ADF and the Indonesian National Armed Forces (TNI).

“During Exercise Keris Woomera, the Australian Amphibious Force and its many components, in partnership with the TNI, have successfully exercised all aspects of a comprehensive amphibious operation,” Captain Doherty said.

“This includes not only the Combined Joint Force Entry amphibious landing, but also the various fire support elements of such an operation, as well as the evacuation of non-combatant personnel from an unsafe area.

“Ably supported by HMA Ships Adelaide and Stuart and Indonesian ships KRI Raden Eddy Martadinata and KRI Makassar, this was truly a joint effort that proves our combined ability to respond to any crisis that may occur in our region.”

CAPTION: ADF and Indonesian Armed Forces senior leaders pose for a photo after a combined live-fire exercise in East Java, Indonesia, during Exercise Keris Woomera. Photo by Andrew Green.

TNI Chief of Navy’s Education and Training, Lieutenant General TNI (Mar) Nur Alamsyah, said Keris Woomera increased the spirit of mutual trust between the TNI and the ADF.

“This joint exercise has improved military skills and strengthened defence diplomacy relations between our two countries – it is an important step in building strong cooperation to maintain regional stability,” Lieutenant General Alamsyah said.

Commander Land Forces Colonel Judd Finger said the live-fire (LFX) component of the exercise was a fitting way to wrap up the most significant amphibious activity to take place between the two nations.

“The LFX that was carried out by the ADF and TNI assets consisted of tanks, artillery, infantry, fighter jets and attack helicopters,” Colonel Finger said.

“After months of planning and a week of amphibious activities, it was satisfying for all involved to see their hard work and dedication pay off in such a spectacular fashion.

“Exercise Keris Woomera has certainly raised the bar in terms of effective bilateral amphibious operations between Australia and Indonesia.”

Upon conclusion of the exercise, Adelaide and Stuart steamed in company with Raden Eddy Martadinata and Makassar, before continuing with their deployments.

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