Talisman Sabre Expands: Strategic Military Exercises Reach Papua New Guinea
The Talisman Sabre military exercises, traditionally held in Australia, have expanded to Papua New Guinea, involving forces from the U.S., Australia, and PNG. With activities resembling joint security cooperation, the exercises aim to test capabilities across various domains amid geopolitical tension in the region.
The Talisman Sabre military exercise, a key defense collaboration between the U.S. and Australia, has for the first time expanded into Papua New Guinea this week, covering an extensive 500 km stretch of the remote northern coast. This marks a significant shift in the annual war games traditionally conducted on Australian soil.
Involving 40,000 troops from 19 countries, the exercises focus on disaster recovery and survival strategies, challenging U.S., Australian, and PNG forces across diverse terrains previously known for World War Two conflicts. These activities are set to conclude with a ceremony in Lae on Monday, highlighting combined capabilities in sea, land, air, cyber, and space operations.
This expansion comes following a 2023 defense deal with PNG, enabling the U.S. access to strategic seaports amidst growing influence from China in the region. Recent diplomatic engagements emphasize safeguarding Papua New Guinea's sovereignty and enhancing bilateral security, against a backdrop of broader geopolitical maneuvering involving Australia and Japan.
(With inputs from agencies.)
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