PNG vessels join naval exercise in Indonesia

National, Normal
Source:

The National, Thursday April 14th, 2016

 TWO PNG naval vessels are participating with 36 other nations in a naval exercise in Indonesia.

The PNG patrol boats HMPNGS Moresby and HMPNGS Dreger with the strength of 38 sailors left Port Moresby last March 31 for Padang in Sumatra.

The 46-member defence force delegation is led by Captain (Navy) Philip Polewara. 

The PNG navy was invited by Indonesian Chief of Navy Rear-Admiral Ari Soedwo to take part in the exercise called Komodo.

Indonesian President Joko Widodo will review the ships taking part.

The event will coincide with Western Pacific naval ship symposium. 

The exercise is important as it involves countries who are member of the Western Pacific naval ship symposium.

The Exercise Komodo scenario is based on UN peace-keeping, humanitarian aid and disaster relief operations.

The participants will learn from each other to enhance their relationship, professionalism and culture.

The two PNG patrol boats are commanded by Lieutenant (Navy) Roboam Hosea and Lieutenant (Navy) Laijah Antony.