THE Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) has strengthened its intelligence capability with the graduation of 30 personnel from the Intelligence Operators Course, marking another milestone in defence cooperation between Papua New Guinea and Australia.
The three-week course, delivered under the Defence Cooperation Program (DCP), equipped participants with essential intelligence skills, including information collection, analysis and reporting. Through classroom instruction and practical exercises, graduates developed the ability to provide timely, accurate and relevant intelligence support to PNGDF commanders during operations.
Deputy Secretary of the Department of Defence, Doreen Joel, officiated at the graduation ceremony and presented awards to the top-performing students. Second Lieutenant Mark Tommy received the Officer’s Award, while Lance Corporal Simon Bonny was presented with the Soldier’s Award for their outstanding performance and commitment throughout the course.
PNGDF Chief of Defence Intelligence Colonel John Manuai congratulated the graduates, describing intelligence capability as critical to the force’s future operational 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.
He said the resilience, dedication and professionalism demonstrated during the course reflected the high standards expected of intelligence operators and would contribute to strengthening the PNGDF’s operational capability.
Ms Joel said the course highlighted the enduring value of the defence partnership between Papua New Guinea and Australia.
“The partnership between the PNGDF and Australia continues to strengthen as friendships and professionalism grow through courses like this one,” she said.
Australian Defence Advisor Colonel Nicholas Trottercommended the participants for their enthusiasm and 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.
He added that the practical training demonstrated the growing PNG-Australia defence partnership and strengthened cooperation at the people-to-people level.
Australia continues to support the PNGDF through training, skills exchanges and capability-building initiatives aimed at enhancing the effectiveness and interoperability of both defence forces.