The crackle of simulated gunfire breaks the stillness of a North Queensland afternoon as Australian and New Zealand troops launch into a coordinated assault.
Cresting a ridgeline, they move with precision, each step part of a wider strategy of multinational interoperability during Exercise Talisman Sabre 2025.
Across the ridge, the Opposition Force (OPFOR), played by a dedicated team of Australian soldiers, awaits.
The OPFOR mission is to provide a realistic and formidable challenge to test the resilience and cohesion of the friendly force, known as Blue Force.
Among them is Major Jillie-May Reading, Officer Commanding OPFOR, who coordinates her troops from just behind the front line.
"The Opposition Force's role on Talisman Sabre is to create dilemmas and tactical actions that force the Blue Force to go into decisive action," Major Reading said.
"Our company detachment is delaying Blue Force as they approach, which delays their overall advance."
'For the OPFOR soldiers, seeing a battle from the enemy's perspective has improved their own tactical acumen.'
For Blue Force Australian soldier Private Spencer Dunn, the realism is intense.
"Having an enemy force out there prepares me for what it might be like and also allowed me to work in a bigger force," Private Dunn said.
Meanwhile, across the battlefield the sounds of gunfire grow more intense, joined by shouted commands and the thud of boots on dry ground.
The Blue Force adapts, manoeuvres and pushes forward, while the OPFOR determinedly holds on, refusing to give ground easily.
After the battle, Major Reading reflected on the challenges of and benefits of serving in an OPFOR.
"We were so small on the ground compared to the Blue Forces," she said.
"The OPFOR sub-units across the troop and section level did an exceptional job in executing their tactical skills.
"However, for the OPFOR soldiers, seeing a battle from the enemy's perspective has improved their own tactical acumen."
