HAWKEI IN THE SKY Trials prepare Chinooks to provide Hawkeis with greater mobility on operations
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Edition 1404 September 7, 2017
A CH-47F Chinook takes the
weight of the Hawkei Protected
Mobility Vehicle while
conducting external lift trials.
Photo: Glen McCarthy
HAWKEI IN
THE SKY
Trials prepare Chinooks to provide Hawkeis
with greater mobility on operations
P3
KOKODA MILESTONE PP17-20 LAND SYSTEMS PP4-9
2 News www.defence.gov.au/news/armynews September 7, 2017
Edition 1404 September 7, 2017
A CH-47F Chinook takes the
weight of the Hawkei Protected
Mobility Vehicle while
conducting external lift trials.
Photo: Glen McCarthy
HAWKEI IN
THE SKY
Trials prepare Chinooks to provide the
Hawkei with greater mobility on operations
P3
KOKODA MILESTONE PP17-20 LAND SYSTEMS PP4-9
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Cpl Mark Doran
Cpl Max Bree Gen Sir Peter Cosgrove (retd), Lady Lynne Cosgrove, Chief Commissioner EWS, Ken
Cpl Sebastian Beurich Matthews, Ambassador of the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, Ramsey Macpherson, and
Cpl Bill Solomou Commissioner EWS, Phil Marshall at the unveiling of the Everyman’s Welfare Service new
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“TIME for a cup of tea or a friendly
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Governor-General Gen Sir
Army News is published fortnightly Peter Cosgrove (retd) unveiled the
by the Directorate of Defence News, Everyman’s Welfare Service new
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who serve today,” he said. Lt-Col Gordon Lambie and Brig Phil Winter, of the Centenary of Anzac planning team, meet
“My Army career lasted more Ambassador of the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo, Ramsey Macpherson, and Everyman’s Welfare
www.facebook.com/ than 40 years and the Everyman’s Service Chief Commissioner, Ken Matthews.
TheAustralianArmy was a constant, welcome presence.
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September 7, 2017 www.defence.gov.au/news/armynews News 3
Sky no limit for Hawkei
Eamon Hamilton
RECENT airlift trials in Townsville
are helping the Hawkei Protected
Mobility Vehicle – Light (PMV-L) pre-
pare for future operations.
Using CH-47F Chinooks from
5 Avn Regt, the trials involved carry-
ing the two-door and four-door vari-
ants of the Hawkei, along with the
vehicle’s trailer.
External airlift by Chinook will
provide the Hawkei with greater
mobility on operations, allowing it to
be deployed over geographic obstacles
or where local infrastructure has been
destroyed.
Under Project Land 121 Phase 4,
Defence is purchasing 1100 Hawkei
PMV-L from Thales Australia, and
along with the Mercedes G-Wagon,
the Hawkei will replace Army’s fleet
of Land Rovers.
Weighing up to 8.5 tonnes, the
four-door Hawkei variant is one of
the heavier loads to be carried by
Chinook.
A joint Air Force engineer / Army
air dispatch team from Air Mobility
Training and Development Unit
(AMTDU) coordinated the trial to
assess the Hawkei’s suitability for
external airlift.
OIC for External Lift with
AMTDU, WO1 Simon Needham, said
his unit designed a lifting configura-
tion for carriage under the lift aircraft.
“The vehicle’s design needs to
be technically safe to fly under the
CH-47F in a variety of conditions,”
WO1 Needham said.
“The flight test combines the tech- A CH-47F Chinook hovers into position for Ptes Alex Beaumont, left, and Jamie
nical certification of the load with an Carbone, of Air Mobility Training and Development Unit, to connect the aerial
operational evaluation to determine delivery equipment while conducting external lift trials with the Hawkei; and inset,
the flight characteristics. members from Land 121, Garry Moss, left, project director Col John McLean and
“A key c o n s i d e r a t i o n i s t o system engineer Matthew Fraser. Photos: Glen McCarthy
minimise the time it will take for
the vehicle operators to prepare and preliminary design phase to ensure the pled aircraft,” Flg-Off Schramm said. tion with the Army Aviation Test and The CH-47F does provide a num-
reconstitute the vehicle for external attachment points would be suitable “Attention must also be paid to the Evaluation Section (AATES); the des- ber of advances over past Chinooks,
lift operations.” for a lifting system. aircraft performance including flight ignated agency for the conduct of all especially for precision hovering and
An assessment of the Hawkei “A number of options were consid- endurance so as to optimise Hawkei Army Aviation flight test activities. power management. The aircraft’s
design was undertaken in cooperation ered, and the final design was assessed configurations to meet force projec- The CH-47F Chinook was intro- Digital Advanced Flight Control
with the Land 121 Phase 4 project as the most suitable solution.” tion requirements.” duced into service with Army in April System incorporates flight control
team, and the vehicle’s manufacturer, Air Force engineering offic- The flight trials encompass a pre- 2015, and has already undertaken laws and modes that greatly assist the
Thales Australia. ers at AMTDU studied the Hawkei’s defined set of manoeuvres that are external lift trials with loads such as crew during high-workload tasks such
While the Hawkei’s design empha- structure, focusing on attributes like designed to test the flight characteris- the Mercedes G-Wagon. as external lift tasks.
sises protection for its occupants, the strength of lifting points on the tics of the external load throughout the Capt Kelly Weatherstone, a test “The CH-47F on-board mis-
its structure also needs to be strong Hawkei, and its mission configuration. flight envelope of the CH-47F. pilot with AATES at RAAF Base sion planning functions also enable
enough to be carried by attachment AMTDU engineer Flg-Off Michael “The purpose of these manoeuvres Townsville, said carrying the Hawkei the aircrew to plan route fuel, power
points mounted around the vehicle. Schramm said studying the Hawkei’s is to examine load behaviour includ- presented some unique handling and timings far more accurately than
“The design underwent technical mass distribution helps predict its ing aerodynamic effects and vehicle challenges. CH-47D,” Capt Weatherstone said.
rigour to ensure any risks associat- behaviour as an external load. movement,” Flg-Off Schramm said. With the maximum weight of the “This enhanced the safety and effi-
ed with flight safety are eliminated “To ensure compatibility with the “This way we can ensure carriage Hawkei approaching the limits of ciency of the trial.
before it progresses to the flight test CH-47F, the Hawkei must be assessed during standard operations will not what the CH-47F can carry externally, “More broadly, the CH-47F is able
phase,” WO1 Needham said. against the capacity of the aircraft compromise safety or airworthiness.” some equipment had to be removed to operate in highly complex, more
“The Land 121 Phase 4 project cargo hook, vibrational influence of At RAAF Base Townsville, the from the aircraft, and less fuel was dynamic environments with increased
team engaged with AMTDU in the the active rotor, and mass of the cou- trials were undertaken in coopera- carried. safety and efficiency versus CH-47D.”
Peacekeeping memorial
A NEW memorial recognising the
contribution of Australian peace- The new
keepers will be opened on Anzac Australian
Parade in Canberra on September 14. Peacekeeping
The ADF representative on the Memorial under
Australian Peacekeeping Memorial construction on
project committee, AVM Peter Yates, Anzac Parade.
said the memorial honoured more Photo: WO2 Andrew
than 80,000 Australian military, Hetherington
police and civilian peacekeepers who
had served on more than 60 opera-
tions over the past 70 years. light, forming a powerful entry to open the memorial will begin at Tax Agent No.25382262
AVM Yates said 14 Australians the memorial,” he said. “The light 10am. The event coincides with
had died during operations and many evokes the role of Australian peace- Australian Peacekeeping Week, from
carried injuries and scars well after. keepers and their help to local popu- September 11-16.
“It’s not only the peacekeepers lations. Written in the pavement are The Australian War Memorial
who are affected by their past mis- words evoking the qualities and sac- will hold a photo display and remem-
sions, it’s also their families who rifice of Australian peacekeepers.” brance service on September 13 and
often have to deal with their past Along the back of the memorial a special Last Post ceremony on
service,” he said. will be a beam recording missions in September 14.
AVM Yates said the design of the which Australians have served and
memorial had two main elements. an inclined plane to receive wreathes For information visit dva.gov.au/
“The memorial consists of two during services. commemorations-memorials-and-war-
monoliths in a stone courtyard sepa- A service to mark 70 years of graves/commemorations-and-anniversaries/
rated by a glowing passage of golden Australian peacekeeping and to domestic-commemorations-1
4 Land Systems Division www.defence.gov.au/news/armynews September 7, 2017
Project director Land 121 Phase 4 Col John McLean signing the Integral
Computing System team charter at the Accredited Test Services, Monegeetta
Proving Ground, Victoria. Photo: LS Nina Fogliani
Hawkei vehicles
right on track
Cpl Max Bree deliveries of Hawkei to Army and Air
Force are expected to be completed by the
ARMY’S mean-looking Hawkei vehicles are end of 2021.
getting closer to production. A major Hawkei trial was held near
Pulled by a six-cylinder turbo diesel Townsville in 2013 where the team took
engine that can also act as a power genera- feedback and rolled it into the design
tor, the Hawkeis’ feature ballistic and blast process.
protection, along with a mounting ring for “There were some issues around the
heavy weapons. position of things on the vehicle,” Col
They will come in four-door command McLean said. “Like storage, latches or
and recon variants, along with a two-door accessibility of things, nothing major.
utility version. “We had a trial this year with little
Project director Col John McLean said improvements around the edges, but noth-
it shouldn’t be too difficult for Hawkeis ing fundamental was changed, which pro-
to comfortably find their place in combat vides a level of confidence when moving
brigades. into full production.”
“Army’s experience with the Hawkeis will be built in Australia and
Bushmaster provides a good baseline for have been attracting a lot of attention.
how to employ protected vehicles,” he “The user trial in Townsville during
said. February highlighted the importance of
“The Hawkei is a niche capability. getting people’s hands on something new
Army will maximise its strengths in no and different, and getting their heads
time.” around how they will get the greatest util-
About 1100 vehicles are expected to ity from it.
be delivered to various units, with 3 Bde “There was a lot of interest from COs
slated to receive them first. The final and RSMs asking when we’re getting it.”
Main: Two Rheinmetall Boxer CRVs (left) and two BAE Systems Australia
AMV35s during a firepower demonstration at Puckapunyal Range, Victoria.
Inset: Head of Capability Acquisition & Sustainment Group’s Land Systems
Division Maj-Gen David Coghlan (left) speaks with Defence Industry
Minister Christopher Pyne (centre) and Director General Combined Arms
Fighting System Brig Greg McGlone following a firepower demonstration at
Puckapunyal Range. Photos: Cpl Max Bree
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September 7, 2017 www.defence.gov.au/news/armynews Land Systems Division 5
Equipping
an army
As war evolves, so too must the equipment with which it is fought, Cpl Max Bree reports.
F
ROM a beautiful bluestone This includes vehicles, weapons, Down the hallway from Maj-Gen Coghlan when he joined in 1981.
building in Melbourne’s Victoria field gear, deployable health systems, Coghlan’s historic office, his senior “There is absolutely no compari-
Barracks, WWII’s Gen Thomas surveillance equipment, and rations. leadership team holds meetings in a son,” he said.
Blamey made crucial wartime The division takes capabilities from refurbished WWII cabinet room, com- “Back then, the Army I joined pri-
decisions. development through to acquisition plete with war-era secret voting but- marily had equipment left over from
In Gen Blamey’s office, at his desk, and in-service management. tons built into the conference table. Vietnam.
now sits CASG’s Head Land Systems Maj-Gen Coghlan said the divi- Secret votes aren’t needed in the “Over the past couple of decades
Maj-Gen David Coghlan, making deci- sion has operated in some form since building today, as the Land Systems the change has been dramatic. Many
sions shaping Army’s future capability. 1908 and most soldiers would be team takes its cues from the Defence of our new capabilities will skip a gen-
“The nature of land warfare is very familiar with the division’s “Land” pro- White Paper. eration and provide us with the best
diverse and we have to integrate eve- ject numbers. “The White Paper is government’s equipment in the world.”
rything from helmets through to mis- “Without us, the ADF wouldn’t have direction, and during the initial stages There is now a need to upgrade
sile systems,” he said. the equipment to the depth or quality it of the capability life cycle we develop and refresh equipment at a faster rate
“We do that for the ADF and we fill has now,” he said. options in partnership with Army, Navy than in decades gone by.
a large niche that industry can’t.” “In all modern, Western armies and Air Force headquarters and once “The mindset has changed,” Maj-
The division is responsible for there is an equivalent organisa- a decision is made by government, we Gen Coghlan said.
delivering a vast majority of the ADF’s tion doing a job like us. You need a purchase and sustain that equipment,” “As the pace of warfare increases,
land-based capabilities to support detailed understanding of the ADF to Maj-Gen Coghlan said. so does the pace of acquisition and
“raise, train and sustain” requirements, make sure you’re providing the best The equipment rolling out today is sustainment to match. And, the divi-
and urgent operational deployments. equipment possible.” a far cry from that seen by Maj-Gen sion is here to meet that need.”
The Rheinmetall Boxer undergoes
blast testing at Proof and Experimental
Establishment – Graytown.
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6 Land Systems Division www.defence.gov.au/news/armynews September 7, 2017
The equipment
creating more
versatile soldiers
‘
Cpl Max Bree
AS ARMY’S new packs, webbing and
armour roll out across Australia, project
director Lt-Col John-Paul Ouvrier has clear
indications his team is on the right track.
“We’ve had a significant number of
The feedback
units calling us to expand their basis of
issue entitlement and seeking to have the
we’re getting from
equipment issued early,” he said.
“Units that aren’t on the basis of issue
[the UK and US]
are seeking to be included, to ensure they is that our gear
get the equipment.”
1 Bde soldiers first received about is state-of-the-art
7000 sets of the soldier combat ensemble
(SCE) in 2015, followed by roughly the and some of the
same amount delivered to 3 Bde in 2016.
7 Bde will have theirs by December best equipment out
and the project is using an ongoing adap-
tive acquisition approach to improve the there.
gear.
“We deliver the first tranche of the – Lt-Col John-Paul Ouvrier,
equipment and then work closely with project director
Diggerworks to incorporate feedback from
the users into the design of the subsequent
tranche,” Lt-Col Ouvrier said. Lt-Col Ouvrier’s project regularly
“In this way we’re able to continuously sends used helmets and armour back to
deliver cutting-edge equipment that really manufacturers for checking.
meets the user’s needs.” “They inspect and x-ray that equip-
Lt-Col Ouvrier said the SCE impressed ment, refurbish it and we send it back to
counterparts in the US and UK militaries. users,” he said.
“The feedback we’re getting from “That way we ensure it will provide
them is that our gear is state-of-the-art and the appropriate level of protection on
some of the best equipment out there,” he operations.”
said. By the end of this year, the project will
The SCE’s armour can be scaled to have delivered about 22,000 sets of SCE
meet different threat levels the Army is to the combat brigades.
likely to face. With the success of the project, an
“The baseline level of protection is SCE modernisation plan is being prepared
against low-velocity rounds and if the to supply the equipment to training estab-
threat environment worsens we can lishments, reserve units and some parts of
increase it to a high-velocity capabil- Air Force and Navy.
ity, which will counter armour-piercing “We’re looking to purchase another
rounds,” Lt-Col Ouvrier said. 35,000 sets of SCE to roll out to units
The system also features optional that didn’t receive the capability within
extremity protection for the arms, groin the scope of the original project,” Lt-Col
and neck. Ouvrier said.
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September 7, 2017 www.defence.gov.au/news/armynews Land Systems Division 7
Capability
by the
truckload
The new Rheinmetall MAN trucks are proving a hit with
drivers, Cpl Max Bree reports.
T
HEIR comfortable cabs reduce driver fatigue, and revers- “We haven’t had any feed-
proved a hit with drivers, ing cameras on selected variants back that the new capability
their integrated load sys- to assist in mechanical loading.” hasn’t been embraced.”
tem made transporting and All trucks have the capability Col Wilson said some of the A Rheinmetall MAN medium weight truck
distributing loads a breeze, and to be fitted with communications training team based at Amberley with tray and a Rheinmetall MAN integrated
their powerful engines take them and battle management systems. found the occasional driver load-handling truck. Inset: Project manager
over rough terrain. Between now and 2022, a initially reluctant to let the old Jacquie Menzies and project director Col
Army’s new Rheinmetall total of 2707 vehicles, 3858 trucks go. Steve Wilson discuss their work on Land 121
MAN trucks are heading to modules and 1753 trailers will “They’ve indicated at the start Phase 3B that acquired the Rheinmetall MAN
1 Bde later this year, having be delivered to units across of the course they’ve had some trucks.
completed their initial rollout Australia. operators who have strong ties Photos: Bruce Powell and Cpl Max Bree
to 7 Bde – replacing the Mack, And those unprotected vehi- to the old vehicles and typically
Unimog and S-Liner fleets. cles in the fleet can be retrofitted by the end of the course they’re
“Through the project we are with blast and ballistic pro- strong advocates of the new
delivering a capability that is tected cabins if needed. Jacquie capability,” he said.
a generational step forward in Menzies, vehicles and modules The new trucks are expected
terms of mobility, protection and project manager, said it didn’t to last for the next 30 years and
safety,” project director Land take long for the newly delivered Col Wilson was pleased with the
121 Phase 3B Col Steve Wilson trucks to be sent out in the field. positive feedback about both the
said. “They were introduced in vehicles and trailers delivered
“Almost 40 per cent of the February and a few weeks later to date.
new capability is fitted with pro- they were deployed on 7 Bde’s He was confident the next
tected cabins. Exercise Diamond Walk,” she wave of vehicles, modules and
“Additionally, there are a said. trailers to be introduced into
range of safety features includ-
ing anti-lock braking, electronic
“The feedback from the bri-
gade was really positive, with the
service by the project, which
includes a heavy recovery
Inspector-General of the
braking stability, rollover pro-
tection, air-suspended seats to
users saying they far exceeded
their expectations.
vehicle, would be equally well
received.
Australian Defence Force
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8 Land Systems Division www.defence.gov.au/news/armynews September 7, 2017
Weapon’s
explosive
accuracy
There’s a new capability for the Mk 47
grenade launcher, Cpl Max Bree reports.
T
HE Mk 47 can send 275 high- about 200 weapons now delivered to
explosive grenades downrange Army and Air Force units, where it has
each minute, but project direc- replaced the Mk 19 grenade launcher.
tor Lt-Col Byron Cocksedge is “The Mk 19 is well over 30 years
more impressed with the Mk 47 grenade old,” Lt-Col Cocksedge said. “It was
launcher’s video sight. bought to fulfil an urgent operational
“The Mk 47 gun has been in ser- user requirement at that time.”
vice for about 10 years, so the real The project team is now finalising
capability enhancement is the new delivery of training and simulation sys-
sight,” he said. tems while working on storage of the
“It allows greater accuracy, at weapon in the Bushmaster and other
greater distances, by day and night. It vehicles.
can acquire and observe targets out to 1RAR’s DFSW platoon put the
3000m. weapon through its paces during a six-
“It’s not really the gun itself, it’s week test and evaluation process.
the fire control system that comes with They gave feedback that was used
it that is new. Australia is the only to enhance the Mk 47’s load carriage
country to have it currently in-service.” equipment.
The sighting system features a laser “There were some observations the
range finder, thermal sights and a bal- contractor was able to take back to the
listic computer to calculate where the manufacturer, General Dynamics, and
rounds will land. they made a few tweaks to the equip-
The system achieved its initial oper- ment to make it more user-friendly,” Project director Lt-Col Byron Cocksedge with a diagram of Army’s new Mk 47 lightweight automatic grenade
ating capability milestone in May, with Lt-Col Cocksedge said. launcher. Photo: Cpl Max Bree
September 7, 2017 www.defence.gov.au/news/armynews Land Systems Division 9
Blast-resistant vehicles
Potential Army armoured vehicles are being assessed to withstand larger blasts, Cpl Max Bree reports.
T
HE two prospective ASLAV replace- the contract and we won’t have to pay for a
ments have undergone blast testing. number of contract changes to fix an issue.”
The risk mitigation activity follows While the ASLAVs didn’t receive a mid-
recent completion of user evaluation life upgrade, Land 400 Phase 2 will account
trials under Land 400 Phase 2. for through-life support and a mid-life
The Rheinmetall Boxer CRV and BAE upgrade to see the vehicles to about 2050.
Systems Australia Patria AMV35 were both “We don’t know what the threat environ-
subjected to a simulated mine blast under one ment will be in 10 years,” Lt-Col McKendry
of the road wheels, according to Lt-Col Chris said. “But there’s money allocated through
McKendry, a program manager with Land the program for future technology refreshes.
400. “The baseline of these vehicles is quite
Manufacturers then repaired the vehicles high but we’re not resting on our laurels.”
before they received another simulated mine A seasoned cavalry officer, Lt-Col
blast, this time, under the belly of the vehicle. McKendry said vehicles centred on mobility,
“In the first 10 months the vehicles have firepower and protection.
performed very well; they’re tightly compet- “You trade off all three,” he said.
ing, there’s little to differentiate them,” Lt-Col “ASLAV and M113s have been higher on
McKendry said. mobility but less on protection, while their
“Ultimately it’s going to be their complete firepower varied between .50 cal and 25mm.
offer; their capability, their assessed value “These two Land 400 vehicles tend to
for money and the results of the test and bring all three together and balance them.
evaluation activity.” “Plus their electro-optics are far superior to
The year-long risk mitigation activity is what we’ve had in the ASLAV.”
being used to reduce the risks in undertaking When positioned next to an ASLAV, the
an acquisition of this size. prospective replacements dwarf the older
The aim is to examine the tenderers’ claims vehicle, but Lt-Col McKendry said this size
regarding the performance of their vehicles meant better protection.
and search for issues that could be improved “A lot of people say they can’t believe how
before the selected vehicle enters service. much bigger they are than the ASLAV,” he
“We’re looking to influence those small said.
changes in areas that aren’t 100 per cent “These new vehicles are designed to with-
right,” Lt-Col McKendry said. stand much higher blast events than what an
“We don’t want anything to be missed that ASLAV can sustain.”
Lt-Col Chris McKendry prepares to observe a live-fire shoot of the Land 400 contenders from could create issues down the track. Once the supplier is chosen, Defence plans
the control tower at Puckapunyal Range. Photos: Cpl Max Bree
“If we find something early, we get it into to acquire 225 of the vehicles.
Weapon system
being rolled out
Project
manager Tim
Donegan
with an EF88
weapon
he helped
acquire.
Cpl Max Bree “The rifle’s progression was de-
linked from the ancillaries because we
DISTINCTIVE black Steyrs are appear- needed to get the rifle right first so we
ing at units as the new EF88 rifles are knew what we were dealing with before
rolled out across the country. we went to our market,” Mr Donegan
Boasting reduced weight and said.
increased versatility through attach- “There were significant inputs in
ments, the new weapon has arrived at
3 Bde and will soon be issued to units
terms of the weight of the rifle and
ergonomics that came from users.”
Because you are looking after us,
in South East Queensland.
“We call it a weapon ‘system’
Mr Donegan believed this led to the
EF88’s warm reception. we are going to look after you.
because it’s a baseline rifle with a “We’ve had overwhelmingly positive
suite of surveillance and target acquisi- feedback from everybody we’ve rolled
tion ancillaries,” project manager Tim it out to,” he said. No fees Installed ready to use
Donegan said. “If there was any complaint, people No fixed term If it breaks we will fix it
The weapon reached initial operat- are just a bit put out that they’re receiv-
ing capability in May and continues to ing the capability after other units.” Simple approval Free Pick up, Fast.
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service with Army since 1988 and has ing and updated SA2 version will be Use this code in the optional comments / promo code box
undergone minor upgrades since. retained. DEFENCE on the online enquiry form or reference when calling.
“Threats are always changing and “We’ll end up with a fleet of 56,000
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for an increased lethality,” Mr Donegan EF88,” Mr Donegan said.
said. But it isn’t just the weapons and Upgrade anytime^ Replace while Repair† Product Swap~ Free Delivery Free Installation
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the ADF, the new rifle was heavily the other logistic elements that are
influenced by a series of user trials. required,” Mr Donegan said.
10 News www.defence.gov.au/news/armynews September 7, 2017
Training centre launches
Special
ops first
Staff from the Special
Operations Training
and Education
Centre gathered to
mark the transition.
Photo: Sgt Janine Fabre
Socomd has branched out to non-
Special Forces personnel as part
of the ongoing evolution of special
operations training.
SOCOMD members and the wider ADF gathered to mark “SOTEC has a detailed development plan, which has
another milestone in the ongoing development of special been underway for some time. Today’s transition marks
operations on September 1. the first step on a path which will see the centre fully
The gathering at Holsworthy Barracks witnessed the operational by January 2021.
transition of the Special Forces Training Centre (SFTC) “Between now and then the centre will take on
into the Special Operations Training and Education responsibility for all common individual skills training
Centre (SOTEC). Guests included Special Operations in the special operations sphere and will be a place
Commander Australia (SOCAust) Maj-Gen Adam where we can better grow and develop our people and
Findlay and representatives from across Socomd and the capabilities.”
wider ADF. Personnel across the ADF will see changes in the
The Commandant of the centre said SFTC had grown near future with SOTEC releasing the revised Special
over the past 20 years to see it responsible for the deliv- Operations Introduction Course (SOIC) on Campus in
ery of more than 30 courses per year. This included the the coming months while a Special Forces smart phone
conduct of all Special Forces Support Staff Tactical app, designed to better inform prospective members of
Integration training and the Commando Reinforcement the Command, is due out before the end of the year.
Cycle. “With SOTEC as the centre of all special operations
“The transition to SOTEC will see the centre shift training, we will continue to build a collegiate team pre-
its focus from just training to include education and pared for a range of missions and contingencies based on
will enable the centralised coordination of learning for world’s best practice,” the Commandant said.
all Special Operations and support elements within the “SOTEC is the mechanism which will ensure that
ADF,” Lt-Col S said. Australia’s Socomd remains at the cutting edge.”
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“I was also curious about the team of “To conclude the SOPC, we conductedSeptember 7, 2017 www.defence.gov.au/news/armynews News 11
The then SOCAust, Maj-Gen Jeff Sengelman, engages
with students from the 2017 Australian Special Operations
Course at Holsworthy Barracks.
Participants in the inaugural
Australian Special Operations
Course go through their drills.
a planning serial in pairs, which empha- experiences and always linked to a real
sised to me, the strategic impact of tactical life situation.”
decisions. Another student said the course was
“I see that as the everyday nature of the very comprehensive, taking them right
Command which is something I will con- from capability briefs, through to strategy
tinue to reflect on throughout my career.” and up to governmental decisions.
The SOPC concludes with a custom- “I now have a much clearer picture of
ised strategic thinking, soft people skills how important it is to take a comprehen-
and ethical decision-making module. sive, ‘teamed’ approach to the threats we
Having been exposed to the theory and face,” he said.
ethos underpinning Socomd, the second “The creation of robust, highly skilled
phase of the training concentrated on and adaptive networks of regular, special
immersing the participants into the special operations and civilian organisations is
operations environment under the mentor- clearly the secret of success, but it’s also
ship of Socomd junior leaders. clear there’s more we can do to hone these
This included qualification in a number relationships.
of weapon systems as well as exposure to A third student encouraged anyone
Socomd equipment, facilities and training offered a place on the course in 2018 to
methodologies. The training culminated “seize it with both hands”.
with a 36-hour full mission profile exer- “It is an immersion that will open your
cise, replicating a National Mission Force eyes to the benefits of working as part of
task. an inter-agency team,” he said.
“I really enjoyed having the face-to- “Whether you end up working for
face contact that we had with the staff Socomd later down the line or not, you’ll
from SFTC; the majority of whom had make a series of connections that will be
long careers within 2 Cdo or SASR,” the invaluable in your future career.”
student said. The next ASOC will occur in early
“They were all really approachable and 2018. Twenty positions are available and
professional. Every facet of the training candidates will be identified in consulta-
they provided was reinforced with their tion with the career management agencies.12 News www.defence.gov.au/news/armynews September 7, 2017
Amphibious transition
2RAR soldiers depart the well deck of the amphibious transport dock USS Green Bay in combat rubber raiding craft during Exercise Talisman Sabre. Photo: Sarah Myers
2RAR soldiers are transitioning to a “It’s an exciting time for 2RAR, standing of the environment they are “As a key player in the amphibi- integrate reservists and ex-serving
leaner, more agile structure provid- building on the amphibious trial and about to step into. ous trial, 2RAR made an important ARA personnel into our establishment
ing specialist effects for the Australian being given the opportunity to estab- “2RAR (Amphib) will be responsi- contribution to the evolution of the so that we can generate both infantry
Amphibious Force. lish a world-class amphibious unit ble for securing beach and helicopter joint amphibious capability,” Lt-Col and amphibious capability,” Lt-Col
As part of Plan Keogh, 2RAR will optimised for pre-landing force opera- landing sites in support of an amphibi- Pashley said. Pashley said.
shift from Forces Command to come tions,” he said. ous landing, and will be key to ena- The restructure will see 2RAR The restructure will be marked by
under command of HQ 1 Div/DJFHQ “Working as part of a joint team, bling the landing force to come ashore focus on specialist amphibious skills a parade on November 23 – the 69th
as a specialist amphibious infantry 2RAR (Amphib) will be the eyes and and complete its mission.” while still retaining the ability to act anniversary of the Royal Australian
battalion from October 15. ears of Australia’s amphibious force, Additionally, 2RAR will pro- as a conventional infantry battalion Regiment.
CO 2RAR Lt-Col Doug Pashley specialising in the use of small boats vide training support to the combat when required, and the reduced unit “We want to use the parade to rec-
said the unit would restructure as a and the conduct of reconnaissance, brigades as the role of the amphibi- establishment allows soldiers with ognise the change to 2RAR but also to
BHQ and three sub-units to gener- surveillance and sniping in a littoral ous ground combat element rotates amphibious experience to be shared acknowledge the hard work and dedi-
ate a “pre-landing force” for the environment. through Army. Furthermore, there will across Army. cation that all ranks and all corps have
Amphibious Task Group on a “ready- “They will be aiming to provide the be new opportunities for the ARES to “The transition is a great oppor- made to develop Army’s amphibious
ing” and “ready” basis. landing force with a detailed under- contribute. tunity to harness the total force to capability,” Lt-Col Pashley said.
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dha.gov.au/online 139 342September 7, 2017 www.defence.gov.au/news/armynews News 13
Gone but not forgotten
Cpl Mark Doran
CLOSE to 50 former members of
2/4RAR attended a plaque dedication cer-
emony at the Australian War Memorial
(AWM) on August 25.
AWM Director Brendan Nelson
welcomed the group and the plaque was
unveiled by a former CO 2/4RAR Brig
Paul O’Sullivan (retd), and 2/4RAR
Association president WO1 Max
Walker, of AHQ.
Brig O’Sullivan said those who
served in 2/4RAR were the unrecog-
nised and unheralded warriors of the Bde. It was charged with the task of
post-Vietnam defence of Australia preserving the traditions, associations
years. and museums of the two battalions
“From its establishment in 1973 from which it was formed.
they slogged through the tedium The 1994 Defence White Paper
of the three-year training cycle with directed the raising of an additional
little relief from the live-firing exer- infantry battalion to redress a perceived
cises at the High Range Training Area shortfall in Army’s capability to con-
and the repetitive Kangaroo exercis- duct land operations in accordance with
es at Shoalwater Bay or the recurring strategic guidance.
deployments to Butterworth,” he said. Former 2/4RAR members including former CO Paul O’Sullivan, left, 2/4RAR Association president WO1 Max This additional battalion was
“Some were fortunate enough to Walker, Ken Ellis and Gary Jier attend a dedication ceremony of a plaque honouring 2/4RAR (inset) at the formed on February 1, 1995, by delink-
deploy on activities such as Exercise Australian War Memorial. Photos: Cpl Mark Doran ing 2/4RAR to reform 2RAR and
Tropic Lightning in Hawaii and some 4RAR. The existing 2/4RAR, complete,
were chosen for Exercise Long Look fully manned and equipped for that year tion was a wonderful opportunity for The linking of 2RAR and 4RAR to was re-titled 2RAR while 4RAR was
with the British Army. ready to respond to Australia’s defence the former men and women of the bat- form 2/4RAR was the first such linking formed incrementally over the period to
“This was all done with profession- needs on 24 hours’ notice to move. talion to reflect on their history. in the Royal Australian Regiment and 1998. Eventually 4RAR was taken off
al dedication, dignity and honour as “The soldiers of the battalion did “Association members from across came about because of the cessation of the order of battle and is now known as
infantrymen of the Royal Australian that with stoic commitment to the dual Australia travelled to Canberra for this National Service, when Army under- 2 Cdo Regt.
Regiment. responsibilities on the Army’s under- event,” he said. went a major reorganisation. The bat- Elements of 2/4RAR served
“In the 80s we were a part of the taking of service to the nation and the “The plaque was originally designed talions were linked on August 15, 1973. in Malaysia as Rifle Company
Operational Deployment Force, rotat- responsibility of the regiment to put by former 2/4RAR soldier, Ken Ellis. Throughout its existence 2/4RAR Butterworth from 1975 until 1989 and
ing annually with our sister battalion duty first.” “It was fantastic to be honoured in was based at Lavarack Barracks in also supported operations in Cambodia,
1RAR to become the online battalion, WO1 Walker said the plaque dedica- this way by the AWM.” Townsville and formed part of the 3 Somalia and Rwanda.
2015_08_FORCOMD_ATEP2016_148x200_PR.pdf 1 18/08/2015 2:22 pm
Legacy of giving
AB Morgan
Foster pins a
Legacy badge Call For Applications: The Army Tertiary Education Program 2018
on Commander
JTF633 Maj- Background
Gen John
The Army Tertiary Education Program (ATEP) provides an opportunity for junior Army officers and
Frewen at
Australia’s main soldiers who do not possess an undergraduate degree, to undertake part time study in selected
operating base courses at the Southern Cross University (SCU), University of New England (UNE), James Cook
in the Middle University (JCU) and Charles Sturt University (CSU).
East Region.
Photo: Cpl
Sebastian Beurich Prescribed Degree Programs
Prescribed Degree Programmes (PDP) are defined as programmes of study that meet the broad
aims of ATEP. The PDP sponsored by the ATEP are:
Cpl Sebastian Beurich their coalition partners, including the • Bachelor of Organisation Leadership (BOrgLead) - UNE.
British, Dutch and New Zealand armies,
ADF personnel in the Middle East have have raised more than $16,500 through a
C • Bachelor of Training and Development (BTrg Dev) - UNE.
raised more than $32,000 for Legacy series of auctions, the first of which wasM
• Bachelor of Business (BBus) – JCU.
through 2017 and looked to add to the total held on Anzac Day. • Bachelor of Business (BBus) –SCU.
during Legacy Week. Capt Tim Coulter, Qargha’s des-
Y
• Associate Degree in Adult Vocational Education – CSU.
The soldiers, sailors, and airmen and ignated auctioneer, kept the crowd’s CM
airwomen sold and wore Legacy badges attention as he auctioned off sporting
from August 27 to September 2 to show merchandise, the chance to have one of MY 2018 Applications are now open.
their support for Legacy Week. their officers perform section duties, and
CY
Positions are now available for junior Army officers and soldiers who are interested in commencing
These badge proceeds will be added memorabilia. tertiary studies in trimester 1, 2018.
to funds already raised by personnel “It was great to see everyone so keenCMY
deployed on Operations Okra, Highroad, on pitching in and having a laugh during The following FT Army personnel are eligible to apply for ATEP sponsorship in 2018:
Manitou and Accordion through a num- the auctions,” he said.
K
• Lieutenants and Captains who have graduated from the Royal Military College (RMC) and have
ber of events over the year. “It’s all a bit of fun but the money completed four years continuous service.
Commander JTF633 Maj-Gen John we raised helps to support an important • Officers commissioned through the Army Senior Non-commissioned Officer and Warrant Officer
Frewen said supporting Legacy was an cause.”
important part of being an Australian Commissioning Scheme (ASWOCS).
At Camp Baird, Australia’s main
soldier deployed on operations. • Warrant Officers of substantive rank.
operating base in the Middle East
“Legacy supports the families of • SNCO of substantive rank who have completed a minimum of five years continuous service in
those who didn’t come home from oper- Region, ADF personnel have raised more
ations, as well as those who lost their than $16,800 through regular events that rank.
current or ex-serving spouse or parent at including raffles, trivia and bingo nights. • Military Instructors of any rank who have served at least three years in an instructor appointment.
home,” he said. While the events may have contrib-
“It’s a charity which is close to the uted to an important cause, HQJTF633
Command Warrant Officer, WO Ken The cut-off date for applications for ATEP sponsorship in 2018 is 20 October 2017. ATEP
hearts of many Australians who are cur-
rently serving in the Middle East Region, Robertson, said they were also important application forms and detailed information on the program including university advanced
and many people at home, my own to maintain morale among the deployed standing requirements are available from the ATEP SharePoint page on the Forces
included. personnel. Command Intranet site: http://drnet.defence.gov.au/Army/FORCOMD/Headquarters/DPME/
“I’m quite proud of the staggering “Looking after your mates is one of
Pages/Army%20Tertiary%20Ed%20Program.aspx
amount of money the task force has been the core parts of being a member of the
able to raise over the year.” ADF,” he said.
Throughout 2017, ADF personnel “These social activities give all of
across the region have held events and us the opportunity to check up on each
competitions to raise money for Legacy. other, as well as contributing to make
At Afghanistan’s Camp Qargha, sure the families of our mates who didn’t
outside Kabul, Australian soldiers and come home are looked after as well.”14 News www.defence.gov.au/news/armynews September 7, 2017
Value of Legacy Giving
back to
those who
‘
Cpl Bill Solomou “To me Legacy as an organisation
A MOVING speech by a Legatee
stole the show at this year’s launch of
Legacy caught me
mid-fall in a net of
and as a family will hold a special
place in my heart. And for all it has
done for me, my family and all others
give to us
National Legacy Week in Canberra on it assists, I thank them from the bottom
August 28. formidable support of my heart,” he said. THE upcoming Annual Aussie
Junior Legatee Mark MacInnes and love. Representing CDF, CAF Air-Mshl Hero Thank You Dinner is looking
gave an emotional and eye-opening Leo Davies said Mark “captured what to give back to those who have
– Mark MacInnes,
speech about how his father, Lt-Col given so much to our troops.
Junior Legatee Legacy was all about”.
Andrew MacInnes, suddenly passed The dinner is to thank the
“Mark tells a great story, the dark-
away when Mark was 13. volunteer quilters and sewers of
ness he spoke of is real and Legacy do
When his father died, his mother Aussie Hero Quilts who spend
lost a treasured and loving husband, a fantastic job to complete the circle,”
Air-Mshl Davies said. hours of their own time turning
Mark said.
“They offer support not just to fabric into pieces of art, which are
“And my sister and I lost a figure
of guidance, support and unconditional those fighting, but to those families then sent to deployed personnel.
love. Love that we both needed.” who allow them to fight, and that’s Donations are sought for gift
Mark said he initially turned his why we are here.” bags to be presented to the volun-
back on Legacy, and he felt alone. RSM-A WO Don Spinks said teers on the night.
“The once blue sky we all shared Legacy Week was important “to all of Founder Aussie Hero Quilts
together became dark – black,” Mark us in Defence and the Defence com- Jan-Maree Ball has requested that
Photo: Cpl Bill Solomou munity”.
said. units which have been supported
“I felt no one close to me would “It is a critical element to the sup- by the organisation provide a
understand – I felt isolated and not port network for all of Defence,” WO small gift.
able to turn anywhere.” Spinks said. “It is a national institution “It could be as simple as a
I n t h e fi r s t i n s t a n c e , M a r k include me, or giving up on changing life they have acted as the safety net. taking care of our people.” patch, cap or coin, but I would
thought Legacy meant the occasional my mind, they still continued to bend Legacy caught me mid-fall in a net H e e n c o u r a g e d eve r y o n e i n appreciate it if it came with a
Christmas voucher. over backwards for myself, as well as of formidable support and love; it has Defence to continue to contribute and small note expressing appreciation
“We got in the mail invitations to my family.” given me a light inside of me that I support in any way they could. for the quilter/sewer’s contribu-
events that I had no real interest in Mark said Legacy extended “an used to see inside everybody else.” “It is an amazing institution and I tion to Aussie Hero Quilts,” Mrs
going to, and money towards uniform arm of love and support to include me Now aged 20, Mark said that in encourage everyone to get on board Ball said.
expenses,” he said. in whatever they planned”. hindsight he was wrong not to allow with Legacy,” he said.
“Your assistance with this pro-
“When Legacy first came to me, It was not until Mark was 16 that Legacy into his life earlier. Legacy Week was held from
ject is much appreciated and I will
to be honest, I brushed them off, very he became involved with Legacy. “In front of everyone here, I admit August 27 to September 2 to raise
“They put me in contact with other I was foolish and swallow the pride I funds and awareness for the families of be grateful for whatever can be
quickly in fact.
“I kept them at arm’s distance – teens in the same situation; this gave once had,” Mark said. incapacitated and deceased members contributed.”
unwilling to turn my interest or head me a support network of people who “It has been an absolute privilege of the ADF. Donated items should be post-
towards them or anything they passed understood my pain, helped me pro- to be part of something so fantastic, ed to PO Box 248, Cherrybrook,
my way. cess it and then feel better,” he said. something that has helped me grow Support Legacy at www.legacy.com.au/ New South Wales, 2126, no later
“But instead of them ceasing to “Since allowing Legacy into my and mature as a person. DonateOnline than October 1.
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