The United States Government has provided new dress uniforms to the Papua New Guinea Defense Force (PNGDF). This delivery was facilitated through the Department of Defense and U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, following a request from the PNGDF. The uniforms, valued at approximately $5 million or K20 million, were designed with input from the PNGDF.
"We are proud to present the Papua New Guinea Defense Force with a set of brand-new dress uniforms," stated Ambassador Yastishock. "These uniforms were designed with precision, delivered with pride, and rooted in our shared commitment to professionalism."
These uniforms are intended to enhance PNGDF's presence at both national and international events, coinciding with Papua New Guinea’s upcoming 50th Independence Anniversary in September. Major General Jay Bargeron remarked on the significance of this timing: "With Papua New Guinea’s 50th Anniversary of Independence approaching in September, these uniforms will allow the PNGDF to proudly represent your nation during this historic celebration."
The uniform delivery is part of ongoing security cooperation between the United States and Papua New Guinea. The Defense Cooperation Agreement established in 2023 serves as a foundation for this collaboration. Since then, the U.S. has been actively engaging with PNGDF through training courses and bilateral exercises.
Rear Admiral Philip Polewara highlighted that these uniforms would boost morale within the PNGDF by reinforcing discipline and enhancing public trust. The donation includes 15,000 complete sets of uniforms distributed across service members.
This initiative reflects shared values between the two nations such as service and honor while emphasizing continued partnership in regional security efforts.