ROCKHAMPTON, Australia - The start of joint United States and Australia military training exercise, Talisman Sabre 2011, was marked with a successful Open Day event at the Rockhampton showgrounds in central Queensland yesterday.
The event, which featured a large array of military vehicles and equipment, attracted a strong crowd and set the tone for what is certain to be a productive and rewarding training experience for both countries.
Overall combined Joint Task Force Commander, Vice Adm. Scott Van Buskirk, commander U.S. 7th Fleet, said it was important for Australia and the U.S. to maintain close ties through exercises like Talisman Sabre 2011.
“By exercising together we will increase interoperability, flexibility and readiness which will help us maintain peace and stability in the Pacific,” Vice Adm. Van Buskirk said.
“We’re continuing to work together to protect our interests, provide humanitarian assistance, and share information.”
Australian spokesperson Brigadier Bob Brown said around 22,000 personnel from U.S. and Australia would train in real world scenarios providing invaluable experience for every level of military across all services, as well as a range of other government agencies.
“Exercise Talisman Sabre is the most complex bilateral exercise that Australia conducts with the U.S. and we all look forward over the next few weeks to delivering the training we need to ensure both countries are ready to work together in the future,” said Brigadier Brown.
Australia and its U.S. military counterparts will conduct land, sea and air training throughout Queensland and the Northern Territory from July 11-29.