Exercise Talisman Sabre 2025 concludes in Papua New Guinea

An Australian Army soldier and a Papua New Guinea Defence Force soldier drag a simulated casualty from the water during Exercise Talisman Sabre 2025 in Papua New Guinea (Image: Supplied)

The 11th iteration of Exercise Talisman Sabre officially concluded today with a closing ceremony in Lae, Papua New Guinea, bringing to an end a three-week intensive multinational military training.

This year’s exercise involved over 40,000 personnel from 19 nations and two observers, making it the largest combined training activity between the Australian Defence Force [ADF] and the United States Armed Forces. Activities spanned across Australia and, for the first time, extended into Papua New Guinea.

The final phase featured a Joint Personnel Recovery exercise between Lae and Wewak, bringing together forces from PNG, Australia, and the U.S. to demonstrate coordinated efforts in safely recovering personnel in complex operational environments.

Papua New Guinea Defence Force Chief Rear Admiral Philip Polewara highlighted the significance of hosting part of the exercise during PNG’s 50th Independence anniversary.

“This has been an opportunity to showcase the strength of our defence partnerships and the capabilities of the PNGDF,” Rear Admiral Polewara said. “The lessons learned here will strengthen regional stability and cooperation.”

ADF Chief Admiral David Johnston emphasized the importance of enduring alliances in a changing strategic landscape.

“Australia and PNG have a long history of standing shoulder-to-shoulder to meet regional security challenges,” Admiral Johnston said. “This exercise demonstrates that we are stronger and more resilient when we work together.”

Commander of U.S. Indo-Pacific Command Admiral Samuel J. Paparo praised the achievements of the multinational force.

“We refined joint operational capabilities, integrated advanced technologies, and enhanced our ability to conduct complex operations seamlessly,” Admiral Paparo said. “Talisman Sabre is a testament to our readiness to respond united in purpose and action.”

The next iteration of Exercise Talisman Sabre is scheduled for 2027, continuing its mission to strengthen regional defence cooperation and interoperability.