A US Marine speaks on a radio during the Combined Force Entry Operation during Exercise Talisman Sabre 19 during an amphibious landing at Stanage Bay, Queensland. US Marine Corps photo by Lance Corporal Kaleb Martin.

More Marines land in Darwin

25/07/201902/05/2020 Posted by Brian Hartigan 2192 Views 0 Comments

Marine Rotational Force-Darwin reached a major milestone this week with the arrival of additional US Marines in Darwin, bringing the total number to its full strength of 2500.

CAPTION: A US Marine speaks on a radio during the Combined Force Entry Operation during Exercise Talisman Sabre 19 during an amphibious landing at Stanage Bay, Queensland. US Marine Corps photo by Lance Corporal Kaleb Martin.

Minister for Defence Linda Reynolds said this met the commitment agreed during the 2018 Australia-United States Ministerial Consultations (AUSMIN).

“The 2019 rotation represents the most capable and operationally focused deployment to date,” Minister Reynolds said.

“This milestone demonstrates the enduring nature of the Australia-US alliance and our deep engagement with the Indo-Pacific region.

“Marine Rotational Force-Darwin improves interoperability between Australian and US defence forces, and enhances our ability to work together with regional partners in the interests of stability and security in the Indo-Pacific.”

The 2019 rotation features a High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS), advanced TPS-80 radar system and an Aviation Combat Element including MV-22 Ospreys and UH/AH-1 helicopters.

MRF-D is expected to complete this year’s rotation in Australia in October.

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