His Majesty's Armed Forces - Tonga Contingent Commander, Lieutenant Colonel Tau Aholelei waited to rendezvous with his soldiers who were sat in an armoured cavalry screen in Townsville Field Training Area.
The Tongan soldiers had worked alongside the 2nd/14th Light Horse Regiment as part of Battle Group Warhorse for the past 6 weeks, in a training progression that culminated in Australia's largest Defence Exercise, Talisman Sabre 23.
Lieutenant Colonel Aholelei said the collective training was essential to gain an understanding of Battle Group tactics and procedures to integrate infantry and cavalry troops.
"Our soldiers are light-infantry," Lieutenant Colonel Aholelei said.
"This is the first time we have worked with cavalry as dismounts, where we can support the tactical actions of cavalry."
"New operating procedures are an opportunity for us - to learn and update our training, so we can integrate and operate with motorised or cavalry units on exercises or operations."
Commander of the Australian Army's Combat Training Centre, Colonel Benjamin McLennan, said the Tongan soldiers have added great value to 7th Brigade and Battle Group Warhorse operations.
"The Tongan soldiers have afforded the Battle Group an essential dismounted infantry and cavalry scout capability that clear terrain and seek to close with and destroy enemy tanks," Colonel McLennan said.
"Their actions enable armoured cavalry teams, equipped with Boxer and the Australian Light Armoured Vehicle, to achieve crucial reconnaissance missions as the 'eyes and ears' of the 1st Australian Division."
Lieutenant Colonel Aholelei also said the increased capability and partnership developed by the two militaries adds depth to the battle group should they be called on to conduct operations within the region.
"We want to demonstrate that we add value and are committed to regional security partnerships," Lieutenant Colonel Aholelei said.
"Exercise Talisman Sabre is a great opportunity to work alongside 7th Brigade and the 12 other like-minded nations," he said.
