Australian Defence Force (ADF) helicopters and soldiers from the 16th Aviation Brigade and Special Operations Command recently completed Exercise Nemesis Typhoon, a domestic counter-terrorism training activity held across Melbourne and Port Phillip Bay, Victoria.
The training involved Australian Army soldiers and UH-60M Black Hawk helicopters manoeuvring through Melbourne, delivering specialised counter-terrorism training to qualified pilots, aircrew, and ground crew. This ensues the ADF maintains world class capabilities.
Commander of the 16th Aviation Brigade, Brigadier Fern Thompson, CSC, said the training was essential in preparing personnel for future operations. “As part of our annual training, we ensure that our personnel are exposed to a variety of environments and conditions. This ensures that they are ready to respond to a broad array of scenarios,” said Brigadier Thompson. “This training enables our aircrew to practice operating over water, around watercraft, and in densely populated locations. Both the maritime and urban environments present unique challenges, from confined landing zones and variable weather, to operating safely near civilian vessels and buildings. Conducting training in unfamiliar locations also strengthens our crews’ adaptability and improves their ability to integrate with ground and maritime elements.”
As part of this activity, people would have seen an increase in military helicopters and personnel movements, along with associated noise. “None of this could occur without support from the local communities which we live and operate in,” said Brigadier Thompson. “I want to personally thank the community for their support and patience throughout this activity. The 16th Aviation Brigade is proud to train within the communities we serve and remains ready to respond when called upon by the Australian Government.”
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