Australia has formally handed over 12 up-armoured Toyota LandCruisers to the Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF), marking another step in deepening defence cooperation between the two nations. The lightweight armoured vehicles will enhance the PNGDF's ability to respond to security challenges across the country's diverse terrain while providing improved protection for personnel.
The handover ceremony at Murray Barracks featured Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles alongside PNG Defence Minister Dr Billy Joseph. The event also included the official opening of the refurbished Sergeants' Mess, an Australian-funded project that now provides modern accommodation for 82 senior non-commissioned officers.
Minister Marles highlighted the strategic significance of the donation, stating that the vehicles represent more than just military hardware but demonstrate Australia's commitment to supporting PNG's security and sovereignty. The LandCruisers are designed for rapid deployment in both urban and rural environments, offering the PNGDF greater operational flexibility.
This latest defence cooperation follows several recent bilateral initiatives, including the $500 million redevelopment of Lombrum Naval Base and plans to expand the PNGDF to 10,000 personnel by 2035. Minister Joseph welcomed the vehicles as a timely boost to the force's operational readiness, emphasizing their importance for domestic security operations.
Defence analysts note the vehicles will primarily support personnel transport in high-risk areas and quick response scenarios. The donation builds upon Australia's previous provision of four Bushmaster vehicles in 2023 and forms part of its annual AUD$100 million defence assistance package to PNG.
The PNGDF is expected to deploy the vehicles in the coming weeks after completing familiarization training. The handover comes as both nations prepare for their next joint military exercise scheduled for November 2025, further solidifying defence ties under last year's bilateral security pact.