RAAF Emergency Response Capability Visits Vietnam

RAAF Emergency Response Capability Visits Vietnam

A RAAF C-130 Hercules and approximately 15 Air Force personnel have arrived in Vietnam for a three-day visit to demonstrate Australia's emergency response capability to representatives from the Vietnam People's Army.

The RAAF emergency response demonstration follows a visit to Australia last week by the Prime Minister of Vietnam, His Excellency Mr Phan Van Khai, and was developed after discussions between the Australian and Vietnamese Chiefs of Air Force in Hanoi earlier this year.

Defence Minister Robert Hill said the activity is an example of the developing relationship between Australia and Vietnam and is the first of its kind.

"This demonstration highlights the commitment from both of our countries to practical engagement in areas of mutual benefit," Senator Hill said.

"It is important that we continue to develop the Defence relationship in areas of common concern, such as disaster response, counter-terrorism cooperation, search and rescue training and maritime security. Plans are also underway to expand our English language training to the Vietnamese Army."

Senator Hill said that the focus of the activity will be Australia's capacity to conduct a rapid response to natural disasters, including its Aero-medical Evacuations.

"Our Air Force aircrew and support personnel from RAAF Richmond as well as medical personnel from around Australia will be sharing their recent experiences from Operation Sumatra Assist."

As part of the activity, ADF personnel will give briefings on providing medical assistance while flying, which will include a demonstration flight from a C-130 Hercules rigged for an Aero-medical Evacuation.

Air Force personnel will also provide briefings on the ADF's rapid emergency response capability.

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