The Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening and modernising the Papua New Guinea Defence Force as the Royal Pacific Islands Regiment marked its 75th Anniversary during the Trooping of the Colour parade at Taurama Barracks on Tuesday.
Speaking as Reviewing Officer at the ceremony, Defence Minister Dr Billy Joseph said the Government has the political will to build a stronger and more capable defence force to meet future national and regional security challenges.
Dr Joseph said the Papua New Guinea Defence Force must be strengthened, modernised and properly equipped as Papua New Guinea enters a new era of development and increasing strategic responsibility.
“The Marape–Rosso Government has the political will to build a stronger and more capable Defence Force for Papua New Guinea,” Dr Joseph said.
“As part of this commitment, the Government will establish a third battalion in Hela Province to expand the Royal Pacific Islands Regiment.”
The Defence Minister said the Government is also investing in revitalising defence infrastructure, expanding training opportunities and modernising equipment with support from defence partners.
He announced that new protected and armoured mobility platforms, including up-armoured vehicles and armoured SUVs, will soon be introduced to enhance protection and mobility for PNGDF soldiers.
“At the same time, we are progressing the acquisition of modern weapons systems to replace ageing equipment so our soldiers have reliable and effective tools to perform their duties,” he said.
Dr Joseph acknowledged the important role of international defence partners, particularly Australia, in supporting the development and modernisation of the PNGDF.
“These investments are not simply about equipment. They represent the Government’s commitment to ensuring that our soldiers have the capability, protection and support required to carry out their mission with confidence,” he said.
The Minister also paid tribute to veterans of the Regiment whose service helped build the foundation of the force.
“The soldiers of the Pacific Islands Regiment have served at the forefront of national duty for seventy-five years, operating in difficult terrain and responding whenever the nation called,” he said.
The Royal Pacific Islands Regiment traces its origins to 1951 when the Pacific Islands Regiment was re-established at Taurama Barracks following the Second World War, building on the legacy of the Papuan and New Guinea Infantry Battalions.
The regiment later expanded with the establishment of the 2nd Battalion at Moem Barracks in Wewak in 1965, forming the two-battalion structure that continues to serve Papua New Guinea today.
Dr Joseph said the soldiers of today will carry the colours of the regiment into the future and ensure its proud traditions continue.
“The next seventy-five years must be defined by professionalism, modern capability and national pride,” he said.
The Trooping of the Colour parade was attended by senior government officials, foreign diplomatic representatives, senior officers of the PNGDF and families of soldiers.