Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea – The United States and Papua New Guinea have begun the Tamiok Strike 2025, a joint military exercise to enhance the capabilities and cooperation between the Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) and the U.S. military. The exercise, running from April 14 to April 25, 2025, will occur in various locations throughout Papua New Guinea, including Port Moresby, Lae, and Wewak.
Over 200 personnel are participating in the exercise, representing the U.S. Army, the Wisconsin National Guard, and the PNGDF, with observers from the Australian Defense Force, New Zealand Defense Force, and the German Bundeswehr. The exercise aims to improve joint operational readiness, tactical skills, and mutual understanding between the armed forces.
"This exercise is about partnership," said Major General Gardner at the opening ceremony on April 14th. "The Partnership between Papua New Guinea and the United States. It’s a commitment from to you to be here forth for the good times and the bad… through our training and partnerships, we know we can build trust and confidence, and we can handle any crisis together and keep the regional stability."
"We are excited to participate in Tamiok Strike 2025 and continue our strong partnership with the PNGDF,” said 1st Lt. Morgan Schwittay, of the Wisconsin Army National Guard. “This exercise not only enhances our military capabilities but also strengthens the bonds of friendship and cooperation between our two nations. It is made even more special for me as a member of the Wisconsin National Guard, continuing to build personal relationships with our shared history and values."
Tamiok Strike 2025 features key components such as Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief drills, which prepare both forces for effective responses to natural disasters and crises. Medical and Engineering Civic Action Programs aim to support local communities, reflecting the commitment of both nations to Papua New Guinea's welfare. Field Training Exercises will simulate combat scenarios to boost tactical coordination, while Staff Exercise Exercises will focus on enhancing command and communication. Additionally, a bunkhouse is being constructed in Lae to increase future troop capacity and provide engineering development opportunities for soldiers.
The United States expressed its commitment to engaging with Papua New Guinea and its Pacific neighbors to ensure a stable and prosperous Indo-Pacific region. The bilateral Defense Cooperation Agreement, effective since 2023, is a foundation of the security partnership between the two countries.
Major General Gardner led the opening of Tamiok Strike 2025.