A UN Base ‘Lafaek’ group photo.
In September this year, 5 RAR once again demonstrated that it is the Unit of choice for Security Cooperation Operations (SECCOPS) activities in the near region. With little time to prepare post Ex PREDATORS RUN 22, Mentoring/Mobile Training Team-Charlie 1 (MTT-C1) was raised from members of B Company and Mortar Platoon for Ex ARAFURA WARRIOR 22 (Peacekeeping Operations Training). Deploying on 05 Sep 22, the MTT-C1 inserted into Timor-Leste and tied in with staff from the Defence Cooperation Program – Timor-Leste.
Once Reception, Staging, On-Forward Movement and Integration (RSO&I) was complete, the MTT-C1 cracked straight into running peacekeeping operations training and mentoring for members of the Timor-Leste Defence Force (F-FDTL) at Metinaro and Baucau to the east of Dili. Within the MTT-C1, the two sections rotated between running the inaugural PKO package and running Infantry Minor Tactics (IMT) continuation training and for the Soldiers of the MTT-C1 it proved an excellent opportunity to further the ADF’s relationship with the F-FDTL and the team did exactly that through the provision of excellent training which was well received by the F-FDTL trainees. Returning in October, the members of the MTT-C1 came home with their heads held high having achieved the mission and having helped the F-FDTL move forward in their own journey of modernisation and development.