PNGDF PERSONNEL SHARPEN AERIAL SURVEILLANCE SKILLS DURING EXERCISE KAPA PISIN 26
Papua New Guinea Defense Force Air Transport Wing personnel continue to strengthen their aerial surveillance capabilities in during Exercise Kapa Pisin 2026.
This has given the Papua New Guinea Defense Force Air Transport Wing (PNGDF ATW) gaining practical skills in aerial photography that can support intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) activities across Papua New Guinea’s vast maritime domain.
Second Lieutenant Rothman Spaiye said it had provided a valuable introduction to using aerial imagery to support operational reporting and surveillance tasks.
“It’s very important for intelligence and reporting. Aerial imagery can help inform situational awareness and support the reporting of activity at sea,” Spaiye said.
Conducted as part of the longstanding partnership under the PNG-Australia Alliance, the training introduced PNGDF personnel to techniques for capturing intelligence imagery from aircraft in flight.
Operating from PNGDF ATW PAC-750 aircraft, participants learned how to identify, track and photograph vessels from the air while managing the unique challenges of photographing moving targets from a moving platform.
The training combined classroom instruction with practical flying activities, allowing PNGDF personnel to apply newly acquired skills during aerial photography runs over vessels in harbor.
Unlike photography conducted on the ground, aerial imagery requires careful preparation and precise timing, with only a brief opportunity to identify and capture a target as an aircraft passes overhead.
ADF personnel shared specialist knowledge as they worked side by side with PNGDF personnel to increase familiarity with equipment, identify targets and practice techniques for capturing clear imagery in different environments.
The activity contributes to PNGDF’s ongoing development of their surveillance capabilities while enhancing the practical skills of personnel operating its aircraft. Exercise Kapa Pisin 2026 demonstrated the value of cooperation between PNG and Australia, providing opportunities for personnel to share expertise, build interoperability and strengthen capability.
Through the PNG-Australia Alliance, activities such as Exercise Kapa Pisin continue to support a capable, professional and resilient PNGDF, contributing to regional security and the enduring partnership between PNG and Australia.
