BY ISABEL EVERETT
Military helicopters will be seen flying over Newcastle towards the end of July, with the Australian Defense Force conducting anti-terrorism training in the region.
Locals will be given the chance to see Australian Army MRH-90 Taipan multi-role helicopters in action, as they are used during training exercises.
"The activity is part of regular, scheduled training,
and is designed to ensure our ADF personnel are operating at the highest level
of capacity to respond, where required, to support Australia’s national
interests," the ADF said in a statement.
Australian Army officer Colonel Brett Chaloner said
ADF personnel were looking forward to the opportunity to train in the region.
“Defence does not get the opportunity to train in the
Newcastle region very often,” Colonel Chaloner said.
“We are looking forward to using some of the
facilities in the area, to assist our helicopter crews and personnel continue
to build our world-class military capability.
“We acknowledge these activities may result in some
noise disturbance for Newcastle residents, but it is essential to provide ADF
personnel with realistic training environments,” Colonel Chaloner said.
The training
will be conducted during the day and at night.
"The public should not be alarmed if they see or hear
military helicopters, vehicles and military personnel carrying weapons. No
ammunition will be used during the training," the ADF said.
"People who see the training should not be concerned that any of the locations are under any form of actual threat."
All ADF personnel participating in the training will
be screened for COVID-19 symptoms before commencing the training.
“Defence will not take any risks with the health of
Newcastle residents, and for everybody’s safety we ask that if you do see or
hear the training, please maintain your distance.
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| Image Credit: Australian Aviation |
