Controlling the chaos

As Australia’s only expeditionary control and reporting capability, 114 Mobile Control and Reporting Unit (114MCRU) demonstrated how the ADF projects command and control into forward and contested environments.

114MCRU specialist personnel monitored more than a hundred aircraft from around the world in the complex and congested airspace above the NT during Exercise Pitch Black to get a coordinated and accurate tactical air picture. 

CO of 114MCRU WGCDR Adam Lawson said deployable capabilities were critical to the success of Pitch Black, where the team establishes radar and communication nodes in remote locations and brings them online within demanding timeframes.

“Providing deployable air surveillance and communications capabilities across Northern Australia in support of Exercise Pitch black highlights the flexibility and resilience of 114MCRU’s expeditionary command and control capability,” WGCDR Lawson said. 

For Pitch Black, 114MCRU employed its deployable air battle management system, Bandicoot, for the first time in a control and reporting centre (CRC) setting. 

The configuration enabled personnel from partner nations to work directly on the capability, enhancing interoperability and strengthening multinational integration during complex air operations.

“For the exercise, the unit is working with The Royal Canadian Air Force and The Philippine Air Force, whose personnel are embedded into our ground CRC effect,” WGCDR Lawson said.

“We also operate extensively with The Republic of Singapore Air Force G550 Airborne Early Warning and Control platform, as well the Japanese Self Defence Force E-2D.

“It is incredibly important to work alongside our partner nations to build a shared understanding of command and control capabilities and how we operate together during complex multinational air operations.”

None of this happens without the unit’s supporting trades. Technicians keep radars and data systems running, while ground support equipment fitters, administration and logistics personnel sustain the convoys, power and welfare that let the ‘pointy end’ operate.

Together, these trades provide the foundation that enables 114MCRU to deploy, sustain operations and deliver an uninterrupted tactical air picture throughout Pitch Black.

Through its people, technology and partnerships, 114MCRU continues to demonstrate the ADF’s ability to project expeditionary command and control wherever it is needed.