Australian Defence Force contingent completes visit to Tonga

Australian Defence Force personnel have completed a series of week-long engagement activities with His Majesty’s Armed Forces in the Kingdom of Tonga.

The Task Group conducted activities including amphibious training using landing craft and small boats, commercial drone demonstrations and hydrographic training.

Commander of Joint Task Force 637, Major General Justin Ellwood, said the Australian Defence Force has a long-standing relationship with Tonga.

“We value our strong and well established security partnership with His Majesty’s Armed Forces, and we are committed to deepening our defence cooperation,” Major General Ellwood said.

“Our latest visit is focused on enhancing the capability of the Tongan military in key areas identified by our Tongan partners.”

The Task Group, consisting of HMA Ships Adelaide and Melville, as well as Army elements, will now sail for Fiji where it will continue its program with the Republic of Fiji Military Forces.

The deployment of the Australian Defence Force contingent is the latest in a series of enhanced engagement being conducted across the Southwest Pacific.

Imagery is available for media use at: https://images.defence.gov.au/S20193043