The PNGDF Navy Vessel, Lakekamu is in the country after a month of operation in the Western Pacific Region; these countries include Vanuatu, New Caledonia and Solomon Islands.
This afternoon, captain of the vessel, Lieutenant Commander James Caroll, gave EMTV News a tour of the vessel.
Lakekamu is one of Papua New Guinea Defense Force’s Navy landing vessels, which is often used for training naval officers while out at sea.
The vessel is 45 metres in length, and can carry up to 56 thousand litres of fuel.
It has just completed exercises in Vanuatu, New Caledonia and the Solomon Islands.
Captain of Lakekamu, Lieutenant Commander James Caroll of the Royal Australian Navy spoke of the different exercises the ship’s crew are engaged in before giving EMTV News a tour of the vessel.
Naval training is an important aspect of a naval officer; thus much of the time is spent on training.
For PNGDF Naval officers, much of their training is conducted through joint exercises with the Australian or New Zealand Navy.
The ship has cabins for both junior and senior naval officers, including recreational and dining areas.
It can accommodate a close to 30 naval officers, however, much of the space is used to carry cargo.
The initiave is a regional effort is for security and to stem illegal entry into Pacific and National waters