U.S. Forces and New Guinea first responders wrap historic disaster response training in Lae

A significant four-day joint disaster response field training exercise has concluded in Lae, Papua New Guinea, bringing together U.S. Forces and local civil-military partners. The event, hosted by the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command’s Centre for Excellence in Disaster Management and Humanitarian Assistance (CFE-DM), focused on enhancing the coordinated response capabilities of both nations in the face of potential disasters.

The exercise culminated in a series of live tactical demonstrations at Igam Barracks, showcasing the skills and preparedness developed over the four days. This collaborative training is part of ongoing efforts to strengthen disaster management and humanitarian assistance partnerships between the United States and Papua New Guinea.

By simulating realistic disaster scenarios, the training aimed to improve interoperability, communication, and operational effectiveness among the participating first responders and military personnel. Such exercises are crucial for building capacity and ensuring a swift, organized, and efficient response when actual emergencies occur.