Fijian soldiers have begun training with Charlie Company 8/9 Battalion, the Royal Australian Regiment, at Gallipoli Barracks in Brisbane for Exercise Coral Warrior.
The Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF) personnel are undertaking advanced infantry skills, direct-fire support weapons, reconnaissance and mortar courses.
RFMF mechanics and engineers are also training with 2 Combat Engineer Regiment on the EF88 weapons system.
RFMF Contingent Commander Captain Alipate Tabuavou said the soldiers were eager to complete their training and take that knowledge back to their units.
“Some of our soldiers have been fortunate enough to have been on previous Coral Warrior exercises, and that’s been a good thing for us because they’ve been passing on their experience,” Captain Tabuavou said.
The soldiers have been shown the basics of the EF88, before running through drills on the weapons training simulation system, undertaking a weapon-handling test and becoming qualified at a live shoot.
Charlie Company’s Lieutenant Joshua Benitez-Castellanos said soldiers from both nations were exchanging knowledge, and he was confident the Fijian soldiers would build capability through the exercise.
“They’ve been very excited to get into the training, and they’re really energised, which makes it a positive experience for everyone,” Lieutenant Benitez-Castellanos said.
“These soldiers are highly trainable and enthusiastic, and they’re paying attention in depth and asking all the right questions, which our members really appreciate.”
