The Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) intelligence capability has just been boosted with the recent graduation of a platoon of intelligence operators.
The PNGDF ability to analyse and respond to the strategic environment has been strengthened following the graduation of 30 intelligence operators from the Intelligence Operators Course last month.
Held over three weeks under the Defence Cooperation Program (DCP), the course taught participants how to collect information, analyse it, and report their findings. Through classroom learning and practical exercises, graduates learned how to apply core intelligence skills in realistic situations. The training gives participants the knowledge and confidence to deliver timely, accurate and relevant intelligence support to PNGDF commanders and teams.
The course graduation ceremony was attended by the Deputy Secretary of the Department of Defence, Ms Doreen Joel, who presented awards to the students who achieved the highest standards during the training.
PNGDF Second Lieutenant Mark Tommy received the Officer's Award, while Lance Corporal Simon Bonny was awarded the Soldier's Award in recognition of their outstanding performance and commitment throughout the course.
PNGDF Chief of Defence Intelligence, Colonel John Manuai, congratulated the graduates on their achievement and highlighted the importance of intelligence capability to the force's future readiness.
“The graduates' commitment to intellectual curiosity and critical thinking has set a strong foundation for their development as trusted advisors to their commanders and teams,” Colonel Manuai said.
“The resilience, dedication and professionalism demonstrated throughout the course reflect the high standards expected of intelligence operators and will contribute to strengthening the PNGDF's operational capability.”
Ms. Joel said the course reflected the enduring value of defence cooperation between Papua New Guinea (PNG) and Australia.
“The partnership between the PNGDF and Australia continues to strengthen as friendships and professionalism grow through courses like this one,” Ms Joel said.
Australian Defence Advisor, Colonel Nicholas Trotter, said the participants demonstrated exceptional commitment throughout the training.
“A high level of enthusiasm was evident among all the students from day one of the course. Their dedication every day to this robust course is testament to their keen desire to become intelligence professionals,” Colonel Trotter said.
“This hands-on learning shows how we are strengthening the PNG-Australia alliance and deepening our partnership at a people-to-people level.”
Australia continues to work side by side with PNG to support PNGDF personnel through training, skills exchange and capability-building activities. These opportunities exemplify the defence alliance between PNG and Australia, improving the capability and interoperability of the two forces.
