PNG and Australia Troops Undergo Combined Military Training

More than 230 military personnel from Papua New Guinea and Australia have assembled near Port Moresby for Exercise Wantok Warrior 2026, an annual joint training program aimed at improving operational coordination and strengthening defence cooperation between the two countries.

The exercise, being conducted at the Goldie River Training Depot and nearby training areas, brings together almost 70 members of the PNG Defence Force's 1st Royal Pacific Islands Regiment and over 160 Australian Defence Force personnel for practical military drills and field-based operations.

PNG and Australia Troops Undergo Combined Military Training/Photo supplied

The program includes a range of security and stability scenarios, with soldiers undertaking checkpoint operations, convoy protection, patrols, engagements with key leaders and maritime-related training.

The combined activities are intended to develop the capabilities of both forces while familiarising troops with each other's operational procedures and approaches to military planning.

Through the field exercises, participants will also work on improving communication, tactical coordination and decision-making, particularly when operating alongside personnel from another military force.

Defence officials said the training was designed to strengthen interoperability between PNG and Australian troops, enabling them to coordinate more effectively during future joint activities and regional security operations.

The annual exercise is conducted under the wider PNG-Australia Alliance framework, reflecting the longstanding defence partnership between the two nations.

Beyond tactical training, Wantok Warrior also provides opportunities for soldiers to build professional relationships, exchange experiences and develop a better understanding of their respective military capabilities.

The joint military activities will continue in the coming weeks, with personnel expected to complete the scheduled training before the exercise officially ends.