RAAF P-8A Poseidon Works With the French on Réunion
In opposition to the picturesque backdrop of the azure waters of the Indian Ocean, a RAAF P-8A Poseidon has for the 1st time arrived on the French island of Réunion for a cooperative action with French Armed Forces.
Réunion holds a pivotal posture in the Indian Ocean, located about 940km east of Madagascar and 225km southwest of Mauritius.
Its exclusive geographical place underscores its great importance as a essential hub for maritime activities and trade routes traversing the Indian Ocean.
The extensive-range deployment of the RAAF P-8A Poseidon from 11SQN to Réunion emphasises the attain of the ADF and the depth of its cooperation with global companions.
Australia and France share a motivation to a dynamic bilateral romance launched on have confidence in, shared values and shared interests, globally and in the Indo-Pacific area.
SQNLDR Simon Earl, leading the 11SQN detachment, highlighted the significance of conducting these types of operations.
“This is the initially time a RAAF P-8A has travelled to Réunion Island,” SQNLDR Earl explained.
The bilateral action focuses on maritime safety cooperation and broadening maritime domain consciousness in the region.
The P-8A Poseidon, renowned for its flexibility, serves as a formidable asset in sustaining maritime protection. Primarily based on a Boeing 737-800 airframe, the P-8A is a multi-mission maritime patrol and reconnaissance aircraft capable of conducting extensive-variety anti-submarine warfare, anti-surface area warfare, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance.
“This has been an incredibly successful detachment. We are not only honing our tactical proficiency, but also strengthening the bonds of cooperation among our respective armed service forces,” SQNLDR Earl claimed.
“This has been made much much easier by the great assist presented from the French Armed Forces on Réunion Island.
“Our hosts have been very welcoming, and it is noticeable that we share the same motivation to upholding worldwide norms.
“In an era marked by dynamic geopolitical shifts, our collaboration builds on the enduring partnership concerning Australia and France in advertising and marketing peace, security and protection in the Indo-Pacific location.”
This activity consolidates Australia’s sturdy defence one-way links with the French Armed Forces centered in the south-west Pacific and expands its strategic cooperation in the Indian Ocean.
Showcased Photo: French Air and Room Power Chief CPL Oili Assam and RAAF LAC Samuel Johnson enjoy a 11SQN P-8A Poseidon depart Roland Garros Airport, Réunion Island.
Image: CPL Kieren Whiteley
Air Force
Vol 66 No 5 March 28, 2024