As aircraft conducted training missions overhead, ADF ground security elements were generating an integrated security posture across three northern airbases - a first for Exercise Talisman Sabre.
Previously only exercised at RAAF Base Curtin, the integrated security effect expanded its reach to include RAAF Base Darwin and RAAF Base Tindal this year.
Personnel from RAAF's 1 Security Forces Squadron (1SECFOR), 2SECFOR and the Australian Army's 2nd (Australian) Division operated alongside Security Forces from 13 Squadron and 17 Squadron, and United States Air Force Security Forces.
These elements worked together to provide security of local and foreign forces personnel, infrastructure, assets and capabilities.
Base Defence Coordination Centre Commander for RAAF Base Darwin Squadron Leader Sean Gordon said there were a number of challenges to overcome to achieve truly integrated security for the airbase.
"Although SECFOR and 2nd (Australian) Division elements share some common training and skills, it was critical to ensure all elements understood and considered the unique operating environment an airbase presents," Squadron Leader Gordon said.
"While there are different approaches to the problem set, the teams worked together to develop, coordinate and deliver a detailed security plan for the base."
The teams planned and rehearsed for the most likely and most dangerous threats to the airbases, all while maintaining business-as-usual security.
'Exercise Talisman Sabre 2025 has proven how interoperability can be achieved by a collective approach to a task.'
Security responses included protected mobility vehicles, Security Force patrol vehicles and military working dog teams to deter, detect and deny access to the base, enabling the continued projection of air power from these northern bases.
Squadron Leader Gordon advised the security integration process across all elements was rapid and efficient, providing confidence in the capability.
"Exercise Talisman Sabre 2025 has proven how interoperability can be achieved by a collective approach to a task and a commitment to leveraging the combined skills of our aviators and soldiers to improve security capability," Squadron Leader Gordon said.
Australian Army Liaison Officer to 13 Squadron with Security Response Task Unit 5/6, Major Gary Fintelman, said Exercise Talisman Sabre had been a valuable opportunity to gain exposure to a wide range of airbase tasks and had put 2nd (Australian) Division training to the test.
"Together, our work has supported the execution of complex, large-scale joint operations across the land and air domains," Major Fintelman said.
"Being part of such a significant exercise highlights the importance of integrated logistics and planning, and it's been rewarding to work with the aviators of RAAF Base Darwin."
