The 11th Iteration of Exercise Talisman Sabre officially concluded with a ceremony in Lae city, Morobe Province today after three weeks of intensive training and high-end warfighting scenarios. More than 40,000 military personnel joined from 19 nations and two observer nations, participating in three weeks of intensive training and high-end warfighting scenarios across Australia and complex training exercises in Papua New Guinea. Conducted between the Australian Defence Force and the United States Armed Forces, Talisman Sabre is the largest bilateral combined training movement that reflects strength, endurance and commitment through regional partnership. Marking the first time an Exercise Talisman Sabre component has been held outside Australia, this activity is a powerful demonstration of the PNG Defence Force’s capabilities, and Australia and the United States’ growing integration with Pacific partners. Meanwhile, PNG, Australia, and the United States defence forces united to conduct the Joint Personnel Recovery activity across several training locations between Lae and Wewak in PNG, as the final exercise activity of Talisman Sabre 2025. This successfully demonstrated how our three nations can work together to safely secure national safety and security, especially civilian recovery. Although its PNG’s first ever participation in the Talisman Sabre 2025, it's safe to describe the intensive exercise as a success. Rear Admiral Philip Polewara DMS CBE, Chief of the Papua New Guinea Defence Force quoted, “Papua New Guinea has been proud to host a component of Exercise Talisman Sabre in our 50th year of Independence. “It has been an opportunity to demonstrate both the strength of our defence partnership with Australia and the United States, and the skills and capabilities of the Papua New Guinea Defence Force. “Working in partnership demonstrates our shared commitment to a peaceful and stable Indo-Pacific region. “This Exercise ensures regional stability, strengthened partnership and capacity building. The lessons learnt will be carried forward in the spirit of cooperation.” Moreover, Admiral David Johnston AC RAN, Chief of the Australian Defence Force said, “Exercise Talisman Sabre reflects a shared commitment to enduring relationships between trusted allies and partners, and a peaceful, stable and sovereign Indo-Pacific. “This year’s iteration has shown how Australia can integrate closely with international partners and positively impact how we respond to a rapidly evolving strategic environment. “Australia and PNG have a long history of standing shoulder-to-shoulder to respond to security challenges in our region and share a mutual understanding that we are stronger, safer and more resilient when we work together. “We thank the participating nations for their contributions to the largest Exercise Talisman Sabre ever, and in making it an invaluable training opportunity for all involved.” Furthermore, Admiral Samuel J. Paparo, Commander, U.S. Indo-Pacific Command praised the Talisman Sabre 2025 for achieving major milestone while upholding professionalism between regional partnership. “Over the course of this year’s exercise, we achieved remarkable milestones—refining joint operational capabilities, integrating cutting-edge technologies, and enhancing our ability to conduct complex land, air, amphibious, and maritime operations seamlessly. “These accomplishments reflect the distinct professionalism of the combined force and our shared commitment to advancing security, freedom, and prosperity across the Indo-Pacific. “As we look ahead to potential challenges, Talisman Sabre is a testament to our readiness to respond united in purpose and action."