Post your Aussie SASR, 4RAR, 2CDO, 1CDO, SOTG ... pics in here .

[Chops]

Check this lovely quote..

"Mr Rumsfeld also praised the work of the Australian troops and described the crack SAS unit as amazing."

http://www.smh.com.au/articles/2003/03/22/1047749979253.html

rgds

Chops

[JiJoMacLE45]

I heard reports that Australian 'special operations forces' took down three Iraqi patrol boats in the Gulf that had mines onboard. OAG(or OAT not sure?) possibly.

[BiZ]

OAG(or OAT not sure?) possibly

There is not OAT or OAG.
Originally there was when the first TAG was set up in 1981, but the Offshore team was absorbed into one unit (reffered to only as TAG still) in the mid 1980's.

TAG is the Counter Terrorist section of the SASR, and is primarily for domestic CT operations etc, it is not a stand alone unit such as CAG or DEVGRU etc within Delta Force. TAG is a role that is rotated through by all 3 Squadrons on almost yearly basis.
SASR run a similar system the way the British SAS run/rotate their CT team.

There is a lot of information on the internet about the SASR and TAG and evrything I've seen is rubbish and full of some really strange stuff, and I wouldn't mind finding out who told them some of the crap they state as "fact" etc.

Anyway, in regards to ship boarding, it is not an SASR role in this type of wartime situation, the role is handled by the RAN Boarding Teams and soemtimes CDT (Clearance Divers) will assist especially is this 'mine' ships raid.

[Ironbark]

To get Australian Military updates on OP Falconer go to
www.defence.gov.au .

[RoBBo]

incase anyone was interested in some more pics of the aussies in afghanistan here is the links

http://www.expeditionexchange.com/action6/

http://www.expeditionexchange.com/action5/

there are some various 22' sas on the site aswell just go through the galleries.
enjoy!

[BiZ]

Once again someone states that us (buried in one of pages in the link)Aussies issue/use the Diemaco C8 as opposed to the Colt M4...... :bash: :bash: :bash:

I won't bother anymore....

It also asks why the SASR favor the 6WD Landie over the 4WD...

Well it's simple, the 6WD is a custom built design specifically for long range recon and surveilance etc in desert type conditions such as the WA outback, and hostile enagement/break contact role etc.
4WD "gun buggies" used by 4RAR(Cdo) and the RAAF ADGies are used also by SASR, but the 6WD is a speciality vehicle perfectly designed for it's role and nothing comes close to it. It is a vehicle for a specific task. Easy as that.

[Mal3]

Ah, Land Rovers are just the coolest :D

[Sabre]

Until you have to push them up a hill for no apparent reason!

[Mal3]

I must admit my faith in the reliability of a Land Rover is hardly gargantuan. I still think they are cool pieces of equipment, as adolescent as it may sound...

[Sabre]

I didn't mean that they break down often (depends when they entered service), just that some people find it amusing to set you and your mates the task of 'recovering a crashed landie', inevitably involving pushing it back up a hill/over logs.
They aren't too unreliable, the new 'wolf' models aren't. The main hassle with them is that they are still under guarantee from the manufacturers; so they have to deal with all servicing issues, however minor. It was the case that you couldn't even repaint them for a while. Stupid, but that's beurocracy for you!

[Mal3]

LOL! Ok, but I'm glad to hear that my favourite military vehicle is not as unreliable as I feared.

Still, why aren't larger tyres mounted more commonly? I saw some pics of 22 SAS troops in Iraq in 1991 (IIRC, it was in some book my friend had, can't remember the title) on Landies and they had put much bigger tyres on them, even cutting some metal I think to accomodate them.

No shocking tyre sizes mind you, compared to some I see on the streets around here ;)

[Sabre]

SAS landies are extremely modified. Like all the kit they use it's tried and tested both on exercise and in combat. They're able to put larger tyres on them because they have more lee-way than most units. Just imagine turning round to your supply Sgt as a Pvt. driver and saying "I think I fancy some larger tyres, can you fix it for me?" You wouldn't get a nice response. I think they up-armour their vehicles as well. They may need the extra grip/footprint to help shift the things.

[Mal3]

I'm just wondering why they're not routinely fitted with bigger tyres. Sure it puts some more strain on the drivetrain and lessens their range, but it could come in handy in bad terrain.

[Sabre]

Money, probably. They've done it this way now and it costs too much to change it!

[Mal3]

But of course ;)

[Duke]

Do they sell a civilian model I mean the convertible model. Hook it up with some phat rims, lower it about 4", and put a huge speaker in the back seat. No seriously do they sell the convertible model??

[Sabre]

Do you mean the one without the Hardtop?

[Mal3]

I think you can buy most bodystyles commercially. There are a few Defender 130s on the street here but they mostly seem to have the four door roofed cabin with a canvas covered rear deck.

Call me a wannabe, but what I want is a Pink Panther. It's gotta at least have a Gimpy! :D

[Duke]

The pink panthers thats what im talking about

[Sabre]

There are a lot of companies that modify Land Rovers, mainly for expedition vehicles, on the civilian market. I'm sure you could get a stripped-down civilian vehicle (a roll cage would probably have to be fitted).
I know that the military hard and soft top versions can be stripped down basically with a spanner (wrench!).

[Mal3]

If "hot" Land Rovers excite you try this link:

http://www.bowler-offroad.com/NAV.htm

[Sabre]

Interesting, have to say I'm more of a fan of pinkies than suped-up landies. Though I suppose pinkies are suped-up in their own way.

[Mal3]

I don't like 4x4/jeeps/SUVs or whatever you like to call them in general. Fine if people use them off-road or at least soft-roading, but otherwise, no thanks.

The Land Rovers are the exception and that Bowler thingy since it lloks like a heap of fun (read as fast) off road.

[Sabre]

Too true. Most 4x4 'offroaders' are simply used for the school run in the morning, clogging up city suburbs. Very few could hack the same that a landie could.

[Mal3]

Probably few off-road vehicles that are as capable "as-is" out of the box. Now, body lift these puppies, put on some 38" tyres, lower the final drive ratio, etc. and you're ready for a glacier safari!

[Sabre]

Maybe, in Iceland, but not in the UK. You'll be lucky to find a frozen puddle to ride a bike over, let alone a glacier to thrash about on!

[Mal3]

True, but still, mostly you will see Land Rovers and others SUVs modified to this magnitude nicely polished sitting outside of financial institutes/corporations.

[Sabre]

Status symbols, that's all. If they have the money to waste on something they won't use, then let them. At least it keeps the blokes doing the modifications in work.

[Mal3]

Well, that IS one way of looking at it...

My problem is that if these guys grew a bit of taste (a subjective matter) and would buy nice sportscars instead I could actually find a nice used spotscar at a decent price when I could afford one. Nope, just gargantuan 4x4s for the milk run...

[fng]

I read somewhere that you could order a Land Rover from the factory built to your specifications to include the equivalent of the British Army's version with a strengthened frame and other mods. I also understand that you can buy used Army Rovers and have them shipped to the States, even ones with left hand stearing (built for duty in Canada, I think). The magazines "Wheels and Tracks" and "Land Rover"(?) has info on this.

[Bootneck]

Just guessing but I'd say the trooper (far left) providing close protection for Gen. Cosgrove is SASR. Anyone?

http://www.defence.gov.au/opfalconer/images/gallery/280403/JPAU27APR03DH12.jpg

[BiZ]

4RAR(Cdo) were tasked with the CPP role while Gen Cosgrove and the Defence Minister were over in Iraq. Also provided a convoy escort in gun buggies too. (4WD landies)

If this is an official photo released by the Defence department that means they're definately not SASR as JP don't take photos of SASR boys faces at all unless covered.

So, simple answer, no, this blokes not SASR but rather a Commando from 4RAR(Cdo).

[Bootneck]

Thanks Biz. I must have got too worked up over the 'stache!

[Chops]

http://www.smh.com.au/articles/2003/05/09/1052280430667.html

[grendel]

http://www.smh.com.au/articles/2003/05/11/1052591677014.html

[FuzziWuzzi]

SAS soldier cited for battling 20 Iraqi troops

By*Tom Allard, Defence Writer
May 19 2003


An SAS soldier who almost single-handedly fought off 20 Iraqi special forces troops in a fierce battle to capture a missile site was yesterday awarded the medal of gallantry by the Prime Minister, John Howard.

Presented at a ceremony in Perth to coincide with the arrival of Australia's special forces contingent to Iraq, it was the first citation for the 2000 Australian personnel involved in the war against Iraq.

Trooper X - a machine-gunner from the 1st SAS regiment, whose identity cannot be revealed - used the brute force of the latest weaponry and precision sniper fire to protect his patrol from numerically superior enemy forces.

The SAS patrol, typically a team of six in two heavily armed long-range patrol vehicles, came under heavy fire in the western Iraqi desert as it approached a military command and control post.

Standing exposed at the back of one of the vehicles and "disregarding his own safety", Trooper X first unleashed a Javelin shoulder-held anti-tank missile at one of two Iraqi vehicles pursuing the SAS, quickly disabling it.


Trooper X then fired off machine-gun rounds against scattering Iraqi troops before launching a second Javelin missile at the other vehicle, hitting it with full force. Spying remnant Iraqi forces setting up a mortar, Trooper X pulled out his rifle and, with his first rounds, hit the base of the mortar tube, exploding it in the face of the Iraqi combatants. rofl

While some Iraqi soldiers soon began to surrender, others were determined to keep up the fight after taking cover.

Further "judiciously placed" :lol: shots flushed out the remaining enemy and ensured the mission to destroy the missile site was completed successfully and without injury. "Throughout this engagement, Trooper X demonstrated skills and composure of the highest standard," his citation read.

"He acted with very little direction and his decision and subsequent actions had significant impacts on the outcome of the engagement."

Further awards for ADF personnel are expected and the Government is considering a medal for all those who participated.

Rallies to welcome home the troops are planned for Sydney and Perth later this month. ;)

http://www.smh.com.au/articles/2003/05/18/1053196474979.html

[cut]

what is the point of the british government if the australian government is even allowing former SAS to be interviewed about operations as recent as the taken of the then Saddam airport?

And another thing, another article on the same site, suggested that special forces was going to be australia's "speciality" and the Howard had decided to greatly increase the number of SAS troopers. Surely this means the standard of the troops will go down.

[FuzziWuzzi]

The trooper is still serving, as for the details of the raid , it just basically says that the trooper blew up a heap'0 ****. I think the general public pretty much guessed that part anyway. But that's about as candid as Aus specops boys get, the Australian government will give the public a nibble here, use colourful language but that's about it as far as information goes..I would describe it - skimpy on the facts with added colourful hype, not the fireworks of say a "saving pvt Lynch SCOOP"
:roll:
The approach works well with the australian psyche, we don't like being treated like mushrooms , but if they pulled off some great work , typically we'll think "yeah, not bad boys, gj" and that will be the end of it-
Typically aussies can't stand people with big egos.

As for the Brit Government, well , let's just say they might be afraid of the creative license of some journalists (unlike CNN lol), with the huge (achievement) vacuum left in the sports section :oops: - newspapers will have a feeding frenzy, and god only knows how much arm twisting and prodding around the papers will be doing with their "sources" - not least of all when it's the SAS.
The last thing the British army want is to fuel the market for more SAS War Stories, and it's the guys that are in charge of releasing the info that get the biggest headache from the whole media frenzy- poor bastards.
You'll just have to guy the book when it comes out- with free extra colourful hype. p-)

[FuzziWuzzi]

guy=buy :|

:bash: :cantbeli: :bash:

[Merik]

Typically aussies can't stand people with big egos

Niether can most of middle America.The only reason why the Pvt.Lynch event got so much press is because the stupid East Coast morons dont have a clue on what Americans want to see, dead Iraqi soldiers.

[Royal]

what is the point of the british government if the australian government is even allowing former SAS to be interviewed about operations as recent as the taken of the then Saddam airport?

And another thing, another article on the same site, suggested that special forces was going to be australia's "speciality" and the Howard had decided to greatly increase the number of SAS troopers. Surely this means the standard of the troops will go down.

We have been involved in an anti-terror conflict in Northern Ireland for over 30 years. The government has had a 'no comment' policy on SF since the early 70's (in 1969 an SAS Squadron deployed to the province wearing berets).

This has partly to protect OpSec (tactics, future Ops etc), partly to protect individuals and families from retaliation and partly in an attempt to counter republican propaganda, with blames their personal bugbear, the 'SAS', for any sucess by the security forces.

Expansion can only mean lower standards. This was mooted after 9/11 in the UK. The government want over 2000 SF personnel. This was pointed out as being clearly impossible.

The current thinking is a two tier SF. Current standards for 'black Ops' ie CT work, and a lower standard group for 'green Ops' ie war fighting. There are suggestions that a Para Bn will be re-rolled in line with the US Rangers as some kind of SF support force, in line with the way they worked in with the hostage rescue of the 1RIR troops held Sierra Leone by the 'West Side Boys'. The same thing may happen in the Corps with what was Commachio Group.

[BiZ]

Expansion can only mean lower standards.

As a general rule yes, but in this case with the ADF "expanding" its SF the standards will not, and have not been, dropped.

What the media don't print, and what is never mentioned is that the full time SF component of the ADF (SASR and 4RAR(cdo) has been slowly expanded over the past few years, even before the 2000 Olympics.

New Regiments such as the Icident Response Regiment (IRR- NBC type civvie reponse aid..in a basic description) were being set up long before the media was told about and reported it. These things don't just sprout up overnight like the media would have you believe.

Over the past 6-8 years Aussie SF selection has been toughened if anything with the inclusion of new testing standards and methods..eg the introduction of "barrier testing" before an individual can go for either SASR or Commando Selection.


If numbers were needed ASAP (which they aren't, the trickle system of current recruitment will be more than adequate) then the 1st Commando Company could have it's Reserves "poached" for full time status, if need be.


Keep in mind people that in the mid 80's the Government wanted the SASR to be exapanded. SASR and Army brass refused to lower entry requirements etc to gain more troopers....so it took several years to fill the all 3 Squadrons to full opeartional strengh.

Always remember: Politicians say one thing, the media report another, while in reality what is actually happening is something all together different from either. :D

[Royal]

Biz - I was making my point from a UK view.

Expansion will mean lower standards, because UK SF have been chronicaly understrength for years. The SBS have expanded somewhat, despite joint selection, the Regiment havn't. Reserves are now widely used, with the regular Regiment poaching the best recruits (something they have done for years - 'Chris Ryan' being an example).

[EliteWolf]

those are the kinds of fine soldiers i want on my specops team. those that insticntivily fight with the will to succeed. those who disregard their own safety to protect his team and get the job done. now thats what i call a true warrior.

[He219]

I want to take this opportunity to express my gratefulness to the Armed forces of the UK and Australia, as well as Poland and others.. I have the utmost respect for those who fought bravely and for those who died. The American People appreciate real Allies. From a 'Yank'...

p-)
He219

[FuzziWuzzi]

Taken from the "Australian"

"The defence force fiercely guards the identities of its crack troops
and allows journalists on the SAS base only if they leave behind
their recording equipment, cameras and mobile phones.

Reporters were allowed to interview Trooper X and three other
soldiers but were warned the SAS did not gauge success by its body
count and that such questions would not be answered. Names, dates and
operational details were also out of bounds.

Mr Howard told the war veterans there was no harder decision than to
send servicemen and women to war.

"I am very relieved to see you back without a scratch," Mr Howard
said. "There are no finer special forces in the world."

He read out the details of Trooper X's citation for acts of gallantry
before the assembled company and their families but said the medal
would be awarded at another time.

Trooper X told journalists the battle in which he earned the medal
was won by a team effort against well-organised, aggressive Iraqi
forces who had been hunting the patrol.

"They engaged us with several vehicles and probably 16 to 20
personnel and a variety of weapons," he said.

"The superiority of ours (weapons) allowed us to stay outside of that
and engage them, and really neutralise the threat."

Trooper X said the clash was the most deadly of the many encountered
by the SAS, and that the weather had caused more frequent trouble.

"The biggest problem was dust and sandstorms. Sometimes you'd get a
combination of both. You'd almost have horizontal mud coming down out
of the sky, and that made things quite difficult."

Apparently the only injuries incurred was in a "games afternoon" at rear base (a punch-up).

:lol:

:bash:


p-)

[front]

"We have been involved in an anti-terror conflict in Northern Ireland for over 30 years."

and

"Biz - I was making my point from a UK view."

Take it easy "Royal"... give sources, and reasons, when you start to push your own agenda on this board please. You'll be brought up short.

As for this comment:

"Expansion can only mean lower standards."

Ridiculous. Expansion could mean higher budgets, encouraging operators to stay in and train new recruits longer. Higher budgets would trickle down to attract a higher quality of recruit (pay grades) and encourage others to stay in longer.

I say "could".

"The current thinking is a two tier SF. Current standards for 'black Ops' ie CT work, and a lower standard group for 'green Ops' ie war fighting. There are suggestions that a Para Bn will be re-rolled in line with the US Rangers as some kind of SF support force, in line with the way they worked in with the hostage rescue of the 1RIR troops held Sierra Leone by the 'West Side Boys'."

What sources can you cite for these claims about a "two tier SF" in the British Army? Where did you hear about "suggestions that a Para Bn will be re-rolled in line with the US Rangers as some kind of SF support force"?

Surely these sources must be open source as you are posting on a public BBS?

cheers

front

[Royal]

Front - Sorry, but UKSF budgets are not a problem (unlike some other parts of the armed forces), and SF pay is the highest apart from aircrew. The whole UK armed forces are understrength and have been for nearly a decade.

The main reason for leaving the UK armed forces is overstretch - too many deployments, for too long. Young people want some quality time at home, older guys (and girls) want time with their families. Because units are under strength, most have to be reinforced by at least a Company from elsewhere on deployment - ie 2 Para & 1RIR's Gurkha Reinforcement Companies (the Gurkhas are one of the few units that are overmanned). The same applies to an even greater extent with SF.

An average operator spends less than 3 months a year in the UK (not on leave, just based in the UK training and on leave).

The main open source I can remember for a 'split role SF' was a series of articles in the Times newspaper last year. I can't find a link (their on-line archive doesn't go that far).

There are however some old threads about it on www.militaryforums.co.uk

[Gordon]

"We have been involved in an anti-terror conflict in Northern Ireland for over 30 years."

I take it you didn't mean the above in relation to ... :


give sources, and reasons, when you start to push your own agenda on this board please.

...because that is what it looks like.

I'm not meaning to be awkward just making sure i'm not getting the wrong end of the stick.

Cheers.

[Sirpad]

TACTICAL ASSAULT GROUP
A briefing/demonstration of the Tactical Assault Group (TAG) East was held at Holsworthy Barracks on 8/20/2002

http://www.defence.gov.au/gallery/large/C0226111.jpg

http://www.defence.gov.au/gallery/large/C0226119.jpg
Notice the batton on the middle man

http://www.defence.gov.au/gallery/large/C0226116.jpg
Same batton, in action

http://www.defence.gov.au/gallery/large/C0226117.jpg
The comm wire on the left man should'nt be secured better?!

http://www.defence.gov.au/gallery/large/C0226114.jpg
AW 0.338?

Where it all came from: http://www.defence.gov.au/gallery

[Tiger]

Nice pics! :)

For the last pic, it s not an AWM but an AW (7.62), know in Australia as SR98. ;)

[Chops]

Sirpad

Although I guess it could be used as a baton, it's primary purpose is to ream glass windows as can be seen in the third image... ;)

rgds

Chop Chop

[Alleycat]

So who are these guys?

[Chops]

Check out http://www.militaryphotos.net/forums/viewtopic.php?t=2100&start=20

Australian East coast based CT unit formed as partner to SASR's CT rotation TAG (West). Formed from a core of CQB trained 4RAR (Cdo) soldiers, CQB trained Navy Combat Divers (CDTs) and SASR TAG (W) operators. BiZ and Reverence are much more up to speed on the Chicken Stranglers and their ilk than me these days; if you need more drop them a line.

rgds

Chops

[Alleycat]

Thanks for the info.

[OzMan]

That "comm wire" isn't really a comm wire. I see these all over the place, but I think it's some sort of tether system. I'm not a firearms expert, so I don't know for sure.

[Chops]

Are you talking about the lanyard leading from his belt rig to sidearm? It's a flexible weapon retention lanyard, particularly useful during abseiling.

rgds

Chops

[OzMan]

Ok, but what does it do/ how does it work? When you say abseiling, do you mean rappelling?

Second pic, man on the far right:
Anyone think that optic is mounted a little high? May just be because the distance in CQB will compensate for that, but just something that caught my eye...

[Chops]

Eagle

A hole or ring mount at the bottom rear of the pistol grip is used to attach a thin flexible line (like a telephone flex cable) to the sidearm which is attached to the shooter, normally on his belt rig. If the sidearm is dropped or taken in a weapon grab, the sidearm will not be lost. There are specific retention techniques for recovering grabbed sidearms which are lanyard equipped.

rgds

Chops

[OzMan]

Cool. Thanks Chops.

[Sirpad]

Since someone did'nt get it: on the third photo's leftmost man, there's a radio transmitter on the left back side of the vest. the wire leading to the headset is not secured to - err - anything, realy. just dangling around, waiting to snag at something and get ripped. acording to murphy's laws, we all know EXACTLY at what precise moment that will happen... :(

Generaly speaking - and please, i don't mean to insult anyone - there are some fundamental rules regarding gear that i don't see anywhere outside the IDF. not in the US, nor europe, or elsewhere.
I'm not talking about anything weird or stupid - but simple things, like cutting or taping any dangling para-cords or wires, securing various gear parts to the LBV, and same goes for weapon parts.
I know for my own, all the gear in my combat vest was secured to it (other the the magazines and grenades) by cords. the radio's spare wire was roled and taped.

Maybe these things do happen - i just don't see them in any photos.

[catalyst]

u may see in the 2nd photo, a wire is extending from the diggers flak jacket. This cable attachment is the same as can be seen in photo at the end with the digger who has some sort of radio device. The attachment for the radio is the same as is lose on the man in photo 2.

Just to point out what ppl may have not noticed! :)

[Mortimer]

i 'think' you'll find its a pintail radio.....may be wrong.

Thats the main individual radio used by the ADF at the moment especially 4RAR and other inf regiments..

Are these guys 4RAR?

[reverence]

The aimpoints are mounted high to enable a clear sight picture to be aquired when wearing a gas mask. The comms lead running down the back leads to nowhere because the press needed last minute publicity shots and the comms gear was removed for opsec reasons. Not the operators fault but more so the defence PR mob who are quick to say "you and you- can you throw you're kit on for a pic it'll only take a few seconds". My advice to diggers in this predicament -make them wait till you and your kit are ready. The pic is staged and the guys in both units never do real training with loose bits of kits hanging off them- thats why they use the buddy buddy or oppo system to make sure everyones kit is squared. The pistol lanyard allows the pistol to be quickly drawn to full arm extension but will prevent a pistol that is ripped from a holster by an object or bad guy being lost.

[digrar]

Most diggers would be too busy trying to get out of camera shot to worry about their gear. So when the photos were published they wouldn't have to cough up a carton of piss. :lol:

[reverence]

pretend you've got to be somewhere else-thats the best policy and easier on your wallet com platoon piss-ups

[BiZ]

It's all way too funny.... "who are these guys?" over and over again.

4RAR(Commando) Tactical Assault Group East (TAG-E).
As stated by numerous persons on many occasions.
SASR have TAG-W (west) as they are on the West coast of Australia and 4RAR(cdo) are on the East coast, for those who can't/don't seem able to 'join the dots' and figure things out for themselves.

For those that still don't get it, these are AUSTRALIANS...we live in AUSTRALIA...no, not that place near Germany that make Glocks...get an atlas out and have alook one day..

Also for those who seem intent on believing otherwise, TAG is a rotation, not a stand alone unit as such.

As mentioned these were PR shots for the "official" lauch of the East coast TAG capability. Nobody wanted to be there with the media, all bar some brass who were keen to talk about this that and the other to the media, especially all the new kit the IRR had on display.

Just curious reverence if you noticed or know anything about the staged sniper pair shooting for the media that day? Those who watched the news would have seen the 2 wooden terrorist beside a hostage target get hit by "two TAG snipers several hundred metres away".

Just wondering if you know what I'm reffering to as I'm being a little general...and I'm hoping you do..as it was rather amusing in my opinion.

[reverence]

Biz-I may know a thing or two about that-send me a PM with a little more info and I'll chew the fat with u-some people assume these sorts of practices are staged or targets heads etc rigged with elec dets as they cant believe soldiers can shoot from hundreds of meters away so close to other people who are well within 600 mils . or the damage a snipers bullet will do to someones(simulated) head. The rounds are real the trust in your mates ability to shoot the target not you is real-it all comes down to practice practice practice. If you are refering to something else eg.something a certain reporter said pm me.

catch ya

[reverence]

Biz-pm me and be more specific I may know a little something.

[BiZ]

On its way mate.

[He219]

http://a1112.g.akamai.net/7/1112/492/03312000/news.lycos.com/news/ot_getImage.asp?op=img&id=371461


Australia Army's Security Detachment Maj. Mic Birtles, 40, smiles Friday, July 11, 2003, in Baghdad, Iraq. Australia has sent 2000 troops to join the coalition forces during the fall of Saddam's regime. ''They talk to us mostly about sports, they like Lleyton Hewitt and Patrick Rafter, there're lots of tennis fans in Iraq,'' he says. (AP Photo/Wally Santana)


http://a1112.g.akamai.net/7/1112/492/03312000/news.lycos.com/news/ot_getImage.asp?op=img&id=370865

Australia Army's Security Detachment Pvt. Drew Ryan, 24, of Denman, New South Wales, guards a perimeter on foot patrols in a residential neighborhood, Friday, July 11, 2003, in Baghdad, Iraq. Australia has sent 2000 troops to join the coalition forces during the fall of Saddam's regime. (AP Photo/Wally Santana)


http://a1112.g.akamai.net/7/1112/492/03312000/news.lycos.com/news/ot_getImage.asp?op=img&id=370870

Australia Army's Security Detachment Pvt. Lee Ryschka, 25, of Townsville, Queensland, Australia, walks a foot patrol in a residential neighborhood, Friday, July 11, 2003, in Baghdad, Iraq. Australia has sent 2000 troops to join the coalition forces during the fall of Saddam's regime. (AP Photo/Wally Santana)

http://a1112.g.akamai.net/7/1112/492/03312000/news.lycos.com/news/ot_getImage.asp?op=img&id=370866

An Australia Army Security Detachment Soldier carries logs of ice at the base, Friday, July 11, 2003, in Baghdad, Iraq. Australia has sent 2000 troops to join the coalition forces during the fall of Saddam's regime. (AP Photo/Wally Santana)

http://a1112.g.akamai.net/7/1112/492/03312000/news.lycos.com/news/ot_getImage.asp?op=img&id=371462

An Australian Army Security Detachment soldier breaks logs of ice at the base, Friday, July 11, 2003, in Baghdad, Iraq. Australia contributed 2,000 troops to join the coalition forces during the fall of Saddam's regime. (AP Photo/Wally Santana)


Solomon Force Departs:

http://a1112.g.akamai.net/7/1112/492/03312000/news.lycos.com/news/ot_getImage.asp?op=img&id=377722

A tugboat pushes Australian amphibious transport ship HMAS Manoora from the dock at Townsville before departing for the Solomon Islands July 21, 2003. The Manoora, carrying about 600 defense personnel, is being deployed ahead of the arrival of most of the 2,000-strong force who will fly to the islands on Thursday to help restore law and order in the lawless and nearly bankrupt former British protectorate.


http://a1112.g.akamai.net/7/1112/492/03312000/news.lycos.com/news/ot_getImage.asp?op=img&id=377732

Two armed Australian soldiers walk off the HMAS Manoora shortly before she leaves the north Australian port city of Townsville, Monday, July 21, 2003, stocked with supplies, vehicles and personnel for a military and police mission to the Solomon Islands. The Australian-led intervention force of 2,000 troops and 300 police are on their way help to restore law and order to the troubled South Pacific nation. (AP Photo/Cameron Laird)

[RoBBo]

thnx for the pics.

[ESCOBAR]

Hey, I thought Australians use American weapons.............guess not.

Do the Australians have the same type of Helmet the U.S soldiers have?

[Mortimer]

Some units like the SASR and 4RAR use M4's
but the rest use F88 AUSTEYR's

[rob]

what is that taped around the right side of the stock?

[digrar]

It's a field dressing. A lot of the boy's put them on their rifle, it's easy to find and you don't have to dig through your mates webbing. Your mate is always going to try and find your dressing because he may need his own later on.

[Dominique]

Here's alink toa photo history of the SASR I guys may find interesting.

http://www.australiandefender.com.au/books/swoadv/swo_detail.htm

[mikec62001]

Anyone got this photo album would be good if you posted them on the site. Would pretty good to see them....

[Chops]

It's a book mate. Remember this funny things with hard covers and paper sheets in between. Before the internet. Little hard to "this photo album would be good if you posted them on the site" ;)

Excellent book though- highly recommended as is Peacemakers by the same author, a photo heavy history of the INTERFET intervention.

rgds

Chops

[Ballistic]

Yes, excellent book, with some really high quality pictures. There are too many to scan and post here, and I dont think the author would appreciate it either. It is apparently the first in a series, so here's to hoping there will be more !!

I've looked over "Peacemakers" a couple times at some book stores..(that is the one where the Aussie soldier is high fiving the East Timorese kid on the cover ????) and it also looks like an incredibly good book, with high quality photos again. Farrell has done an outstanding job, with not only the books, but A&NZ Defender aswell. Any Aussie's know when the next one will be on the shelves ??

[[AFSOC]]

Do the Australians have the same helmets that US soldiers use??

Im wondering about that too?

[Ballistic]

Do the Australians have the same helmets that US soldiers use??

Im wondering about that too?

Yes.

[ShotOver]

Goodluck to our boys over there woot

[bloodzy]

here ya go lads

http://www.defence.gov.au/opcatalyst/

http://www.defence.gov.au/opfalconer/

http://www.defence.gov.au/opbastille/

[Aussie2093]

I have little doubt most of you have seen some of these photos before, but probably not ALL of them..


TACTICAL ASSAULT GROUP
A briefing/demonstration of the Tactical Assault Group (TAG) East was held at Holsworthy Barracks on August 20 2002

http://www.defence.gov.au/gallery/large/C0226113.jpg

http://www.defence.gov.au/gallery/large/C0226116.jpg

http://www.defence.gov.au/gallery/large/C0226119.jpg

http://www.defence.gov.au/gallery/large/C0226111.jpg

http://www.defence.gov.au/gallery/large/C0226112.jpg

http://www.defence.gov.au/gallery/large/C0226115.jpg

http://www.defence.gov.au/gallery/large/C0226114.jpg

http://www.defence.gov.au/gallery/large/C0226110.jpg

http://www.defence.gov.au/gallery/large/C0226117.jpg

TAG-E is compromised of elements from 4RAR (Commando) who have taken over the Eastern Australian Counter-Terrorist duties from the SASR, who now just handle the west.

[ShotOver]

100% BADASS

[Sirpad]

well - i remember posting thse photos myself few months ago. we even had a discussion about one of the men's radio wire.

and still - these are nice photos, so i dont mind seeing them again.

[Gringo]

I saw these months ago!

[LORD_BUNGLA]

quick question. Is TAG also a rapid response unit. what i mean by rapid response is, will they be on the scene as soon as situation flares up? if so, why are they stationed in Holsowrthy?

[Gordon]

I saw these months ago!

Take it easy mate, I seen 'em before too but the bloke's just trying to give us some good pics, he don't know whether we seen before or not .... As was said, they're good pics.

[Aussie2093]

Yes Lord Bungla, the TAG-E is the premier Rapid Reaction Force for all of Eastern Australia. There would be a team ready to go 24/7.

And Sirpad, I saw the post too but some pics were missing...so keep calm :petting:

[Gringo]

I saw these months ago!

Take it easy mate, I seen 'em before too but the bloke's just trying to give us some good pics, he don't know whether we seen before or not .... As was said, they're good pics.

I'm fine, just saying that I saw those pics a few months ago.

[Hadoken]

Very nice pics.

Absolutely love the gear!

And speaking of which....where can I get one of those helmets?

[MolliG]

And speaking of which....where can I get one of those helmets?

http://www.lightfighter.com/item.html?PRID=1248302 :)

[berkal]

MolliG: The helmets in use by the TAG team in these images is not the Gallet MICH. It is a tank crew communications helmet, possibly as manufactired by LBA International (previously RBR). This is easily visible on the webbing of the suspension system and the less square rim as it passes over the ears.

Hadoken: Tanker's helmets are quite difficult to get hold of. They sometimes turn up on Ebay, but I wouldn't hold my breath.

[Hadoken]

Thanks Berkal. :D

Turns out ebay does have something simular:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=2191043517&category=36068

[MolliG]

MolliG: The helmets in use by the TAG team in these images is not the Gallet MICH. It is a tank crew communications helmet, possibly as manufactired by LBA International (previously RBR). This is easily visible on the webbing of the suspension system and the less square rim as it passes over the ears.

I linked to a TC-2001 (http://www.specwargear.com/images/helmet-TC-2001-1.jpg) not a MICH (TC-2000) (http://www.specwargear.com/consignment/Mich%20shell%202.jpg) :|. I see that it is still wrong anyway :oops:.

:)

Nice to see another UKANer here ;).

[BiZ]

Farrell has a thing about 'copyright", and rightly so. I wouldn't want my hard earned shots splashed about on the net for all to pinch and re-display everywhere else.

Live in Aus?, buy the book/s (both are a goo look-see)
Live OS?, get onto ebay etc and look for a copy. I've heard that they appear on ebay fairly regularily and fetcha bit more than I paid for mine... oh but wait...hehe mine was signed and cost squat.... :D

[BiZ]

FYI for all, the current TAG (both W and E) helmet is due for replacement very soon. Also, interesting to note that many TAG-W (SASR) operators choose to wear a PAGST style helmet over the tankies helmet. Personal preference is all it is.

[grendel]

Nice collection of pics.
My only complaint, it only had 98 pages - for an A4 size hard cover, it should have been around 200 :( .

[Haiw]

BiZ alive again? i almost thought u were dead after such a long absense ;)

[Aussie2093]

An excellent book. It has photos of the SASR all the way from Vietnam, through to 80's CT-ism, through to Afghanistan. A must have for anyone and everyone interested in SF, ESPECIALLY a Tier-1 force like the SASR.

[reverence]

I cant say that Ive ever seen any assaulters wearing a standard kevlar for CT its a bitch to fit comms, double hearing protection and a gas mask under a PASGT-the old RACAL helmets were fibreglass tanky helmets the ones used now are kevlar and offer good ballistic protection as well as being lighter and with a liner better suited for CT ops than the PASGT which is strictly green roles kit if required. You cant pick and choose helmets(unless there is a shortage for some reason I cant imagine) as the dress and equipment for Domestic ops is clearly defined
Catchas

[BiZ]

I cant say that Ive ever seen any assaulters wearing a standard kevlar for CT

There are occasions where I've seen it done, but as you point out, it's not the greatest combination with coms or a resi. (Even though the PTGs all wear PASGT style and use S-10's without too much concern.)

Also, do you remember some photo ops shots in the Daily Telegraph (Sydney) and the 'special' report on the SASR by A Current Affair a year or so ago?
Both showed a mix of "tankie" and "pasgt" style being worn.

[reverence]

Nah mate I missed the TV bit but have seen photos in the past 12 months quoted by papers as being Army CT troops which were in fact SPG who are armed and equipped almost the same except for the helmets and a few other odds and ends. I'd be interested to hear from any operators who do prefer the PASGT and their reasons. I'll keep an eye out.

[BiZ]

I'd be suprised with almost anyone mistaking a TAGgie for the Staties, especially the NSW Police SPG TOU. The blueish uniform as opposed to the black overalls and "POLICE" on the tac vests should be the no brainer. All PTG's were to switch to blue (from black) for domestic Ops in the mid nineties...... only VicPol SOG have switched, although they now issue a "greyer" overall they still wear black.

The tv footage and the photo's I've seen are 100% Western boys, but whether they were wearing PASGT's as opposed to tankie helmets for any other reason than 'why not" for the photo Op is anyones guess. I know it's not allowed on this side of the country that's for sure......

With regards to preference...... if you're wearing a resi I don't see how you could really argue "for" the PASGT..... unless you have a small melon or soemthing that allows it to sit comfortably with the resi seal....

[Jack Mehoff]

Their uniform is tight, but they look like a version of SWAT team than military special operation. Not enough green and war paint I guess. Do they still go and play war game for a straight month or more in the field each year?

[BiZ]

Their uniform is tight, but they look like a version of SWAT team than military special operation. Not enough green and war paint I guess. Do they still go and play war game for a straight month or more in the field each year?

Not quite sure what you're on about, or if you've just got no idea and therefore missed exaclty what the TAG rotation is.

TAG West and East are simply the counter-terrorist/hostage rescue "black" roles of both the SASR and 4RAR(Commando). The TAG role is a 'rotation'. That is, "x" amount of troopers fufil the "black" role for approx 12 months while other Squadrons fufil the "green" (war) roles.
Just like the British SAS system of rotating the CT role......

"green and warpaint" as opposed to the "SWAT team" type gear is soley dependant on the situation and role.

If you can find any US SWAT team that looks any wear near as switched on as these TAG-E blokes I'll eat my bush hat....no contest.

[FuzziWuzzi]

http://www.news.com.au/common/imagedata/0,3600,289459,00.jpg

http://www.news.com.au/common/imagedata/0,3600,289461,00.jpg p-)
http://www.news.com.au/common/imagedata/0,3600,289460,00.jpg
...the yowie suit

http://www.news.com.au/common/imagedata/0,3600,289462,00.jpg

http://www.news.com.au/common/imagedata/0,3600,289463,00.jpg

http://www.news.com.au/common/imagedata/0,3600,289464,00.jpg

http://www.news.com.au/common/imagedata/0,3600,289465,00.jpg
....trooper (left) remembers nothing after regaining consciousness ..."little kid" (right) described as subject of interest...

[ßå$tĮТHÏ¿ð]

Nice gear....especially the ghillie suit.

[Tiger]

Nice pics. Which unit is it? SASR TAG?

[bloodzy]

i think the news said it was the TAG, not sure if its TAGE or TAGW

[RoBBo]

they said on the news that it was 4RAR so that means TAGE.

[FuzziWuzzi]

http://www.theaustralian.news.com.au/common/imagedata/0,1658,289474,00.jpg
.....Another shot of that head gear p-)

[Fargin]

http://www.news.com.au/common/imagedata/0,3600,289462,00.jpg
Looks like the swedish SAAB: Barracuda personal camouflagesystem to me.

[Seraphim]

Paintball anyone?

http://www2.888paintball.com/product/large/6156.jpg

[BiZ]

200 pages? Most of the photo's were sent in by current and ex SASR members, and those had to be cleared by the DOD and the ADF media etc etc.

98 pages of just photos is huge cosidering, wanting anything more is just being gready.

I think Farrell said there were plans in the future for another book with the "best of the rest" etc and newer conflict stuff. Wait and see.... no doubt some more 4RAR(Cdo) and 1st Commando photos.


BiZ alive again? i almost thought u were dead after such a long absense

Dead? I have no plans for such a thing anytime soon. My ability to get onto this site is limited to dribs and drabs though. Things such as work and outings have a habit of taking up a vast amount of my supposed "free" time.

[NcDeuce]

Nice pics

[BiZ]

Looks like the swedish SAAB: Barracuda personal camouflagesystem to me

They're AusCam, made by the trooper, certainly not Swedish gear.

They're TAG-E (4RAR Commando and Navy CDT-1), putting on a capabilities demonstration for the media before the Rugby World Cup, also involved in several weeks worth of prep training were the NSW Police SPG TOU, 1 Commando Company and the Incident Response Regiment, as well as several other agencies and units.

If anything, Centre Point Tower in the background of one shot should be a dead give away as to which coast they are on......

The "paintball" masks are being worn by the Navy Clearance Diving Team (CDT-1)who make up part of the water borne capability of TAG-E.

[Rush_die]

nice pics of your CT units...and i like the ghillie suit..

[Mortimer]

This morning (my time) at Sydney Harbour. Because of the world cup our defence force has been flexing its muscles a bit ;)


http://www.defence.gov.au/media/download/201003/index.htm
http://www.minister.defence.gov.au/Broughtpl.cfm?CurrentId=3212

http://www.defence.gov.au/media/download/201003/NSW03-0162-011_lo.jpg
http://www.defence.gov.au/media/download/201003/NSW03-0162-019_lo.jpg

http://www.defence.gov.au/media/download/201003/NSW03-0162-049_lo.jpg
new plan by the government to recruit for special forces directly from the civilian work force (usually only existing members could join SF)


http://www.defence.gov.au/media/download/201003/NSW03-0162-059_lo.jpg
4RAR
http://www.defence.gov.au/media/download/201003/NSW03-0162-062_lo.jpg
http://www.defence.gov.au/media/download/201003/NSW03-0162-097_lo.jpg
http://www.defence.gov.au/media/download/201003/NSW03-0162-101_lo.jpg
http://www.defence.gov.au/media/download/201003/NSW03-0162-133_lo.jpg
http://www.defence.gov.au/media/download/201003/NSW03-0162-127_lo.jpg

[Seraphim]

Nice find...what is Australias defence budget?

[Mortimer]

ummm upwards of (AUD)$12billion

on the rise of course...

http://www.budget.gov.au/2003-04/overview/html/overview-07.htm

http://www.budget.gov.au/2003-04/overview/image/overview-10.gif
http://www.budget.gov.au/2003-04/overview/image/overview-22.gif

[Aussie2093]

WHAT THE!?!?!?!!

No time requirements for SF!?! For real? It used to be 2 years active service to even attempt the SF selection course. Oh man, quantity over quality, shame, shame.

[Jack Mehoff]

WHAT THE!?!?!?!!

No time requirements for SF!?! For real? It used to be 2 years active service to even attempt the SF selection course. Oh man, quantity over quality, shame, shame.


If the standard is still there then what is the big deal?

[MAGNUM]

What is the operational difference between Australian SASR and 4RAR?

[Chops]

Ah something the old Chops knows something of...

4RAR were a regular inf batt until 1997 (BiZ not sure on date- correct if wrong) when they were redesignated ADF's only reg commando formation. Their skillsets include building and airfield seizures/raids, LRP reconnaissance, amphibious, airmobile and parachute insertion, CSAR and support to national CT and SF assets.

They have also recently raised one of the two ADF CT assets- Tactical Assault Group East or TAG(E)- to carry out ops on the East coast of Oz and internationally in support of the original TAG (West) based out of Campbell, Swanbourne. TAG(W) was, and is, staffed by SASR soldiers and were the original CT asset since it's first team, then known as Gauntlet One, was raised in 1980.

SASR are primarily tasked with wartime specialist reconnaissance, surveillance and intelligence gathering, strategic small unit offensive ops/raids and specialist recovery of equipment and/or personel. They also conduct operations of a similar nature to USSF Groups; namely FID/FIT, specialist support to UN/multinational humanitarian ops and 'nation building' for want of a better term.

Hope this helps. If BiZ and Reverence are around they are a lot more up to date than me.

rgds, C

[Aussie2093]

WHAT THE!?!?!?!!

No time requirements for SF!?! For real? It used to be 2 years active service to even attempt the SF selection course. Oh man, quantity over quality, shame, shame.


If the standard is still there then what is the big deal?

Those 2 years as a regular ADF person teaches you what you want out of your military career/stint (ESPECIALLY as a Rifleman), so when you take the SF course after 2 years of say, getting dirty with the infantry, you'll have a good idea about what you are getting yourself into. Now if civilians can just go in, you're going to get guys who think "oh wow, those SF guys in 'Stan and Iraq I saw photos of were pretty hardcore, Im gonna do that for a year or two!!", youre going to be wasting money for even just putting them through a selection course! Now true, if they have got what it takes then it'll be good for SF, however, without proper indoctrination into a military lifestyle, its like growing up but missing your childhood. Suddenly youre expected to be an adult when you haven't even finished Kindergarten. It's a situation where no one wins.

[Ravenclaw]

Hi,
Pls dont mind my asking but regarding the following "direct civilian recruitment"

details of which r here :

http://www.defencejobs.gov.au/careers_explorer/Army514.html

The pay seems to be very high indeed ~$74000(AUD) per annum for a PRIVATE!!!

I'm gonna be going to university soon (UNSW)-(btw,which is the best rated uni??)

After i'm out i wanna apply into any of the ADF forces,obviously starting as an officer since i'll be a graduate.

Does the 4RAR accept officers into their ranks(obviously yes but some more details pls since the articles concentrate on lower ranks)....so can i get into the 4rar as an officer and if yes at what pay scale?

Also my parents are forcing me to do engineering at UNSW,so what r my job prospects in the ADF and which branch offers the best pay again(i just wanna be in military for right reasons,which branch depends on pay :roll: )

Thanks a lot.

[Ravenclaw]

I dont think there will be any COMPROMISE in quality as u put it because think this scheme is for 4RAR only and not SAS.
As far as the 4RAR itself is concerned,you do undergo an accelerated "basic" course.
Apart from this there are various barrier tests etc to screen out the "flashy " wannabess.............i say that coz every aspirant is a wannabe.

There is also a limited commitment agreement so u cant just desert after training.......

[usa320]

Im not sure i would choose special forces candidates that have no military experience.

Unless they had law enforcement careers or had specialty training (ie: communications, demolitions, language, electronics ect.)

[Flagg]

The following Australian Reserve Units recruit civilians directly:

1 Commando

Reserve Clearance Dive Teams

1 Commando is listed as a component unit of the recently established Australian Special Operations Command...so, technically speaking, direct civilian entry into Australian Special Forces has been an enlistment option for some time.

The RAN Clearance Dive Teams have played a role in TAG(unit component of Oz SOC) since it's inception, although the CDTs are not officially listed as unit components of the Australian Special Operations Command(at least anywhere that I have read). One of the roles of the Reserve Clearance Dive Teams is to supplement the CDTs in times of conflict...so would that make the Reserve Clearance Dive Teams Special Forces in terms of "guilt by association"?

I think the PR campaign achieves the following goals:

1.) Maybe some direct from civvy street blokes can make the cut to SF, maybe

2.) Lots of young people will see it and say...."cool" and maybe stop by a recruiter to see if the ADF is for them.....but not necessarily SF....defense force recruiting requires "leads" to make "sales".

3.) Showing Australian SF in the media in a positive way reinforces to the public how important (and cool) they are.....because fighting for a share of the defense budget for SF or fighting for the defense budget PERIOD is a never ending battle......SF sells more newspapers than loggies.

4.) Lastly, with global events like the Rugby World Cup(which New Zealand's gonna win by the way) being held in Australia..it doesn't hurt to occasionally show potential bad guys that if they try any crap in Australia...hard bastards like those in TAG will be waiting.

Just my opinion.....

By the way.....there was an article in the sports page a couple of weeks ago about Australian SF working on recruiting professional athletes.

I'm not a member of any unit listed above, and I assume all of the information I listed to be true and correct. If I'm wrong hopefully somehow with firsthand knowledge would be able to make any necessary corrections

[Mortimer]

i know a guy who did the reserve commando course...he did it alright. its just a trial run..if they don't like it then they'll draw them from the services.

i think it is based on the US 18X system....

[Phantom]

Guys it's for 4RAR and SASR. The only real problem they'll have from civvy street applicants is that they haven't lived the military life and aren't going to be sure of what they're getting themselves into. What they may be getting are people that are extremely enthusiastic from the get go, that at this point haven't given the ADF a thought because they didn't want to do other jobs. It's a TEST, so the ADF will see how it goes and decide based on that what they want to do. It also means that they'll get more applicants, which is what's needed to boost the extremely small amount of SF we have at the moment. But I think we're forgetting our extremely capable Infantry, Signals and Combat Engineer groups out there. Send them to war!

[grendel]

sounds challenging woot

http://www.defencejobs.gov.au/careers_explorer/Army514.html

[bloodzy]

WHAT THE!?!?!?!!

No time requirements for SF!?! For real? It used to be 2 years active service to even attempt the SF selection course. Oh man, quantity over quality, shame, shame.

no way will we drop the standards, if they cant do it they will be dropped, they arent going quantity over quality, thats just not the aussie way, we people who can fight and fight well, thats why 1 aussie soldier is worth 2 of any othr army

[mocking_loudly_died]

I think it sucks balls, don't make me quote ken connor, don’t make me do it!.

I need a beer.....wait it's only 9:30am ;)

Pfftt, one Aussie soldier worth two of any country....patriot overload. rofl

[Seoulstriker]

I need a beer.....wait it's only 9:30am ;)


going in for an 'eye-opener'?

:lol:

[mocking_loudly_died]

How sad am I, I'm drinking beer at work...I blame homer for this inspiration. :lol:

[bloodzy]

I need a beer.....wait it's only 9:30am


you can have a drink whenever you want, its gotta be happy hour somewhere in the world

[Jack Mehoff]

WHAT THE!?!?!?!!

No time requirements for SF!?! For real? It used to be 2 years active service to even attempt the SF selection course. Oh man, quantity over quality, shame, shame.

no way will we drop the standards, if they cant do it they will be dropped, they arent going quantity over quality, thats just not the aussie way, we people who can fight and fight well, thats why 1 aussie soldier is worth 2 of any othr army

Nah, ONE US Army soldier can take on TWO Aussie SASR.

[Caribou Kid]

Jack, you of the wisdom and knowledge most (un)profound, don't know **** from clay.

you lame ass drop-short.
go give your barrel a pull through, and you might see things a bit better.

"In MY jungle, you'd be just another asshole..."

Christopher Walken
The Dogs of War

[Jack Mehoff]

Jack, you of the wisdom and knowledge most (un)profound, don't know **** from clay.

you lame ass drop-short.
go give your barrel a pull through, and you might see things a bit better.

"In MY jungle, you'd be just another asshole..."

Christopher Walken
The Dogs of War


Hopefully, this is not the SAME GUY WHO MADE THIS STATEMENT. rofl Pay back is a bitch, isn't it? rofl

And please grow the **** up and be man enough to accept one of your countryman stupidity.

Look below



WHAT THE!?!?!?!!

No time requirements for SF!?! For real? It used to be 2 years active service to even attempt the SF selection course. Oh man, quantity over quality, shame, shame.

no way will we drop the standards, if they cant do it they will be dropped, they arent going quantity over quality, thats just not the aussie way, we people who can fight and fight well, thats why 1 aussie soldier is worth 2 of any othr army

[mocking_loudly_died]

My dad can kick all your dads arse's! :lol:

[Caribou Kid]

I am not him, and the comments still stand, you nine-mile sniper.

Aust Inf ECN 343
(Rifleman, Infantry) = ME

However, I will admit that the original boast by Bloodzy was a little over the top, okay, :hug: (That's a pretty tall order in anyone's books, eh? "two-of-ours-are-worth-one-of-yours" is nonsense. :roll: Maybe in Counterstrike, dude, or at your local Lazer Tag center, :) but this is the REAL world, fellah.) but this isn't really the thread/place for a pissing contest on whose soldier is worth what to whom, yeah?

Lets just say they ALL kick ass, with variations on the theme.. ok? I mean, at least they aren't COMMUNISTS, right? or long haired dope smoking hippie peace freaks, ...right?

p-)

[mocking_loudly_died]

Bloody hippies! :lol:

[Mortimer]

yeah don't forget the soldier:kill ratio from vietnam

Aussies pwned the yanks

i also heard our kill ratio was better in Afghanistan

[Jack Mehoff]

yeah don't forget the soldier:kill ratio from vietnam

Aussies pwned the yanks

i also heard our kill ratio was better in Afghanistan

There is a thing call SOURCE, NOT "my opinions i pulled out of my anus"

Please don't give any unreliable source either. You are not going to lie to a guy(me) who spent one wonderful year in Vietnam(not during Vietnam War. I wasn't even born in '75)

[bloodzy]

comedy gold, i couldt have hoped for a better reaction, hahahaha rofl

[mocking_loudly_died]

Flame on! :D

Okay, I bet one Royal marine is better than six Turkey goat herders! (now I can drag the brits into a fight with the Turks)

;)

Hmmm.....is there any turks here?

[digrar]

THE HON MAL BROUGH MP
MINISTER FOR EMPLOYMENT SERVICES
MINISTER ASSISTING THE MINISTER FOR DEFENCE

MEDIA RELEASE

Monday, October 20, 2003 MINASSIST 57/03

NEW SCHEME TO BOOST SPECIAL FORCES
The Minister Assisting the Minister for Defence Mal Brough today unveiled an innovative new scheme designed to attract young men to serve among those contributing to Australia's fight against terrorism.
The Special Forces Direct Recruiting Scheme (SFDRS) allows fit, motivated, intelligent young Australians to apply directly for positions in the Special Operations Command.
"The Government is delivering on its commitment to increase the manpower of Special Operations Command forces by an additional 334 people," Mr Brough said.
Mr Brough said the SFDRS targets young males, aged between 19 and 30, of exceptional fitness and intelligence who may not have considered service in the wider ADF.
"Direct recruitment has been practised with great success by Army Reserve commando companies in Sydney and Melbourne for decades and now we are extending this scheme to the Regular Army."
"A similar program has recently proved very successful in the United States and we think it will have similar results here."
Most of the soldiers recruited under this three-year trial initiative will serve with the Sydney-based regular commando battalion, 4RAR (Commando).
Special Operations Commander Australia, Major General Duncan Lewis said commandos are highly trained Special Forces soldiers, proficient in parachuting, amphibious operations and a range of other specialist skills, including Counter Terrorism.
"We are primarily looking to recruit commandos and Special Forces signallers for service at 4RAR(CDO) but we are also seeking a few high-grade applicants for service in the Special Air Service Regiment (SASR)," MAJGEN Lewis said.
He said it was likely only a few trainees would posses the skills and drive to succeed on SASR selection immediately.
"If we think they have what it takes, we'll offer them a chance at SASR selection but I would see most consolidating skills at 4RAR(CDO) and attempting selection a couple of years down the track."
He said applicants would undergo a comprehensive suite of physical and psychological tests prior to acceptance, and would also undergo security checks.
"Applicants who fail to make the grade as a commando during their training will have the option, at a number of decision points, to pursue another role in the Army or to return to civilian life."
Australian Special Forces have a proud military tradition that dates back to World War Two.
Anyone interested in applying to join the Australian Army as a commando should contact Defence Recruiting on 13 19 01 or logging onto www.defencejobs.gov.au"

[RoBBo]

found a few images on the defence force site, enjoy

http://www.defencejobs.gov.au/CAMPAIGN/SpecialForces/Images/Gallery/2.jpg

http://www.defencejobs.gov.au/CAMPAIGN/SpecialForces/Images/Gallery/1.jpg

http://www.defencejobs.gov.au/CAMPAIGN/SpecialForces/Images/Gallery/3.jpg

http://www.defencejobs.gov.au/CAMPAIGN/SpecialForces/Images/Gallery/4.jpg
SASR i think

http://www.defencejobs.gov.au/CAMPAIGN/SpecialForces/Images/Gallery/5.jpg

http://www.defencejobs.gov.au/CAMPAIGN/SpecialForces/Images/Gallery/6.jpg

http://www.defencejobs.gov.au/CAMPAIGN/SpecialForces/Images/Gallery/7.jpg

http://www.defencejobs.gov.au/CAMPAIGN/SpecialForces/Images/Gallery/8.jpg

[ChuckThunder]

found a few images on the defence force site, enjoy

http://www.defencejobs.gov.au/CAMPAIGN/SpecialForces/Images/Gallery/8.jpg

Great pics I really enjoyed the last one. :D

[Clay]

Looks like airsofter, hehe
http://www.defencejobs.gov.au/CAMPAIGN/SpecialForces/Images/Gallery/3.jpg

[EvanL]

Where would the one with snow have been taken?

[RoBBo]

because they are 4RAR im guessing somewhere in n.s.w, but other that i guess it could be anywhere. maybe even a training op in nz, beats me.

[RoBBo]

because they are 4RAR im guessing somewhere in n.s.w, but other that i guess it could be anywhere. maybe even a training op in nz, beats me.

[BiZ]

2 Commando Coy (Reserve) (Which is the 2nd part of 1 Commando Company obviously) have a Mountain Warfare School.
It's generally open only to units within SOC and has a small intake (usually around 15 or so), and a very long waiting list.

Some courses have been run in NSW, but the best ones are run in the Victorian alps. Advanced mountaineering and ice cliff climbing are taught at Mt Feathertop in Victoria.

The 6WD photo is SASR and not 4RAR(Cdo).

[BT_Recon]

very nice pictures..... the Australian SOCOMD is coming along well.

watch out for Australia ladies.

[AirZone]

whats with the paintball masks ?

[Dominique]

It could be they are training with Simunitons, but normally the Simunition barrels are blue to prevent anyone from using the wrong ammo.

[IDFM203]

found a few images on the defence force site, enjoy


http://www.defencejobs.gov.au/CAMPAIGN/SpecialForces/Images/Gallery/6.jpg

Wow is that a kangaroo emblem on the side of the black hawk…cool woot woot

Is that symbol on everything or anything else????

Shalom :D

[EvanL]

All the commonwealth countries airforces have an emblem on their aircraft. Australia has a Kangaroo, NZ has a KIwi bird, Canada has the Maple Leaf, and i think SOuth Africa has a Springbock.

[catalyst]

that is a Australian Army Blackhawk...not a air force chook. the RAAF did have operational control over helicopters until the early 90s when for operational reasonsd the DoD moved the blackhawks over 2 the army. in turn that has led to better operational preparedness yet a lowering in the aircraft maintenance levels due to the corrosion caused wif flying in tropical townsville next to the ocean.

[EvanL]

You wanna hear something really ****ed up? The Blackhawks that Australia flys were originally offered to us Canucks by the Yanks for a reduced price out of friendship, and the stupid ****ing liberal government rejected them in a bid to buy some ****ty civi helicopters painted green.

[dhfactory]

They are taking entries for the commandos atm.

I'm trying to get in, anyone else on here trying?

[Deuterium]

Looks like airsofter, hehe
http://www.defencejobs.gov.au/CAMPAIGN/SpecialForces/Images/Gallery/3.jpg

Although it doesn't appear that they are loaded with Sims at this point, the gear is for Sims. You can see a blue hit mark on the one guy's mask. Great shot.

[papabear]

great pics... thanks

[thatguy96]

http://www.defencejobs.gov.au/CAMPAIGN/SpecialForces/Images/Gallery/4.jpg
Anybody know what vehicle this is? Looks like someone had the idea for a six-wheel Landrover.

[Aussie2093]

That vehicle is a Land Rover Perentie 6x6, developed by Australia specifically for the deserts and rural areas of 'outback' Australia. You can see many photos of them in action in the Aussie section of the Afghanistan campaign at this site. There are a few from Iraq but you'll have to go to the defence website for that..


www.defence.gov.au/army/

[grendel]

Try this (http://www.csse.monash.edu.au/~lloyd/4/LandRover/Perentie/) and this (http://www.ebroadcast.com.au/ecars/Perentie/LRPV.html).

[RoBBo]

They are taking entries for the commandos atm.

I'm trying to get in, anyone else on here trying?

i was going to maybe give it a shot next year but im gonna go to uni first. i may try out after or just enlist in the regular forces.
best of luck to you dhfactory.

[Aussie2093]

I am very keen to try out. However I'm stuck in California at the moment and so all I can do right now is workout and drool.. :|

[thatguy96]

Thx for the info on the Perentie...honestly find it amusing that I was essentially correct. Great idea for a vehicle IMO.

[Phantom]

SOCOMD is saying that out of the hundreds that have already applied, only a few will get in, and I agree with them. For those of you that know about the situation with the Brit TV show, SAS! Are You Tough Enough? the major problem was that they had a civillian fitness, not a military fitness, I think that will be the same problem here. They're not going to be in-tune to the military lifestyle or the environment that they live in when out on OPs, oh and yes that's a 6x6 Landrover Perentie, as it's known in the civvi world, in the ADF it's never been called anything other than the LRPV (Long Range Patrol Vehicle).

Also, in that pic of the guy goin through the door while his mates keep watch, this is a long shot, but does anyone know what kind of chest rig/webbing the bloke had on?

Cheers

[Deuterium]

Looks like airsofter, hehe
http://www.defencejobs.gov.au/CAMPAIGN/SpecialForces/Images/Gallery/3.jpg

Okay kiddies anyone notice the shotgun on his left side. Ballistic breeching.

[Argyll]

Knock Knock!!!

[dhfactory]

i.

[Aussie2093]

dhfactory, is it too late to apply? I'm planning to be back in Sydney by the 1st of January, 2004, so I hope there is still time. I read the job description thingy off the defence website with all the details etc and I got the impression that they'll be looking for a while. Also, how far along are you in this process? Thanks.

[Phantom]

call 131901 and ask

[burnt by the sun]

very nice pictures. didn't notice how well the aussie cammo fits in pretty well before

[BiZ]

Sorry to get this thread off topic slightly, but yeah currently 155 applicants and they are taking 16 into training in jan, 16 in March or something, and 16 in May. (i think)


Keep in mind those numbers (if correct) are only for intakes for Barrier Testing, and not the SF entry and build up course. eg: You pass basic BFA fitness and other tests, basic SF fitness etc, and then get a crack at Barrier Testing... then get a crack at the basic Commando prep courses.

Standards will not be lowered, and no sub standard recurits will be taken. Good ol' Lewis, being ex SASR CO, will not it happen.

One testing officer said that he reckons only 1 or 2 will get a chance to get onto the SASR selection course if they complete the Commando SF lead-in course.

Most postions they are trying to fill are either Sigs, IRR or Specialist Support roles, very few will get into direct combat roles (straight away anyway).

I wouldn't pin my hopes of getting in through this phase of direct recruitment. If you want to have a serious crack at it, join the regulars and put in for Barrier Testing selection after 12-18 months.....or go for 1 Commando Regiment (Reserve).... of which you'll have to have been in a Combat Reserve unit for at least 12 months before applying for Barrier Testing for 1CDO.


Okay kiddies anyone notice the shotgun on his left side. Ballistic breeching.

Also visible in the other photos, and also visible in numerous ARMY publications over the past 18 months with 4RAR(Cdo) moving more into their Urban CQB role with new facilities.

The paintball masks are not only used for Simunition execrises, but also other CQB/TAG type roles. They offer good low velocity fragmentation protection (breaching of diversionary device) and also look pretty "angry" and thus adding to the aggresion factor.

[BT_Recon]

when i went through pooks, a guy was in there going for 2coy cdo res, he didnt even pass the swim test the first time... poor bastard, couldnt hack the swimming clothed with boots.

[Phantom]

hahaha!!!

[Logues]

Guys,

there is a fair bit of rumour floating around the boards about the SFDRS. Some of what is posted is correct, some is partly correct and unfortunately there is some info here from what could be considered a knowledgeable source that is blatantly wrong. As the person responsible for the perception and image of SOCOMD and someone who had a fair bit to do with the launch that you guys seem to like the pictures of, I thought I'd jump in to correct some of the facts.

To check on application requirement please visit
http://www.defencejobs.gov.au

To read a bit more on how the SFDRS will work try the following:


Green skingraft
Direct recruiting of commandos to begin
By Capt Jason Logue
SPECIAL Operations Command has launched a new initiative designed to rapidly fill almost 200 vacancies within its ranks.
The Special Forces Direct Recruiting Scheme (SFDRS) is designed to draw young, fit and educated males from civilian life to service within SOCOMD units.
SOCAUST Maj-Gen Duncan Lewis said the recruiting program would work in conjunction with the more familiar route of currently serving ADF members volunteering for service in Special Forces.
"It is based on a program that has recently proved very successful in the United States," Maj-Gen Lewis said.
"In essence we are augmenting our current arrangements to provide a larger pool of applicants for service within Special Forces."
He said the current in-service lateral recruitment program was providing SOCOMD with quality personnel but the ADF's recent high operational tempo was taking its toll on the number of soldiers applying for entry.
"We get the very best ADF personnel in SOCOMD and this scheme is about adding to that quality mix.
"Unfortunately SOCOMD's development means we need more high-quality applicants and we need them now."
"Therefore we have had to widen the pool of potential applicants through the introduction of the SFDRS."
The scheme hopes to attract enough applicants to fill the vacancies, mostly in the Holsworthy-based commando battalion, 4RAR(Cdo), by the end of next year.
The SFDRS targets young males of exceptional fitness and intelligence who may not have considered service in the wider ADF.
"We're hoping to attract people with drive, determination and high levels of intelligence who see service in Special Forces as the ultimate challenge.
"We can promise them a high-intensity lifestyle, great training and best of all, the chance to work within a group of like-minded and dedicated professionals.
Maj-Gen Lewis said the overwhelming majority of reinforcements coming to SOCOMD would still come from those serving in the army and the wider ADF.
Successful SFDRS applicants will attend recruit and initial employment training as a group and then begin an eight-week accelerated training program to prepare them for the rigours of Special Forces training.
At the completion of the accelerated training program applicants must complete the Special Forces Entry Test before entering their special operations training.
"We are primarily looking to recruit commandos and Special Forces signallers for service at 4RAR(Cdo) but we are also seeking a few high-grade applicants for service in SASR," Maj-Gen Lewis said.
He said it was likely only a few trainees would posses the skills and drive to succeed on SASR selection immediately.
"If we think they have what it takes we'll offer them a chance at SASR selection but I would see most consolidating skills at 4RAR(Cdo) and attempting selection a couple of years down the track."
Soldiers enlisted through the scheme who fail to immediately meet the requirements of the Special Forces Entry Test will be offered other positions within SOCOMD units and the option to reattempt the test at a later date.
All SFDRS applicants will be required to meet the same exacting standards as those soldiers joining SOCOMD through traditional methods.
"The issue of maintaining standards is not negotiable," Maj-Gen Lewis said.
"Instead we're trying a different approach to find more people who will meet those standards and offering them a chance of a lifetime in return.
"They'll have the opportunity to make a direct contribution towards Australia's security and the safety of the Australian population.
"They only need to walk into Defence Recruiting, dial 13 19 01 or log onto www.defencejobs.gov.au and indicate they want to be in Special Forces to get started."


http://www.defence.gov.au/news/armynews/editions/1085/topstories/story01.htm

The current round of recruiting is for Commandos and Commando Signallers. The SFDRS is being trialled for three years to rapidly buil-up the potential number of applicants. At the end of the trial period (when SOCOMD should be close to fully manned) we'll re-evalute to see if we need to continue with the system.

Anyone with questions about applying for the scheme please post them here or PM me ... I'm on here most days.

Cheers

[Logues]

Another pic for those who are interested in the SFDRS
http://www.defence.gov.au/media/download/050503/JPAU02MAY03TR004_lo.jpg

High-Res

http://www.defence.gov.au/media/download/050503/JPAU02MAY03TR004.jpg

[digrar]

http://www.defence.gov.au/news/armynews/editions/1087/features/feature03.htm

This is from the Australian Army Newspaper.

Feature



Work outside the square
- Training with the SASR





Maj Greg Smith follows two troopers through their reinforcement cycles


This issue we start an occasional series on SASR.


It's a down-to-earth look at what type of person serves with the regiment and an insight into what happens in the 18 months it takes to train someone for duty in the Perth-based regiment.


The series will follow the careers of two soldiers, Tprs Sam and Stuart, who are among 23 soldiers currently in training.


The series will appear each time the duo passes a milestone in their training schedule (reinforcement cycle) and hopefully will remove the apprehension many soldiers have towards a career with SASR.


With the next cycle not scheduled until March 2004 (the same time as the next selection course), we pick up as the troopers are almost seven months into their training, having just completed a demolitions course and preparing for an unusual event - a weekend off.


"I guess I'll just sleep, maybe visit the gym or the beach and have a few beers," said 24-year-old Tpr Stuart, who is contemplating a relaxing two days off from SAS training.


Likewise, fellow REO (the term for soldiers in the reinforcement phase) Sam, 23, was looking forward to some breathing space.


Even at this stage of less than halfway through their training, both said it was too early to tell how they were progressing.


"To be honest, I haven't even thought about it; probably because you don't get much time to do any thinking like that," said Sam.


"We just go from one training activity to the next and any time off in between is spent recovering."


In the space of 28 weeks they have completed courses in weapons, basic patrolling, parachuting, combat survival, signaller/medic, heavy weapons, demolitions and method of entry.


The next phase would be a six-week urban combat course.


Both REOs are relishing the opportunities before them, they are different to anything they've ever done.


"It's just a complete change to normal Army life," said Stuart, who originally contemplated SASR as a career during recruit training.


Certainly, for Stuart, the change is more ****ounced than for most, considering he comes from a career as a RAEME technician with 5 Avn Regt.


"I guess I'd always been interested in the Army, with Dad being a reserve," he said.


"And even though I joined as a techo, I always wanted to join SASR, ever since I heard about them at recruit training.



The basic SASR patrol course is one of the first modules undertaken by Reinforcement Cycle soldiers.
Photos from SASR

"But you can't join them straight-up, so I did my time training as a technician at Wagga and Oakey then with 5 Avn Regt in Townsville.


"I just had to try to do it (SAS) at some stage, otherwise I would have regretted it.


"So one day I just came home and it just felt right."


While one may not associate the hard physical grind of an SAS trooper to that of a helicopter technician, Stuart had a strong sporting background that made it easier to cope with the physical demands of the selection course.


His technical skills were a bonus on a course that demands so much out-of-the-box thinking.


His preparation consisted of a few pack marches and spending some time in the bush at Hinchinbrook Island. But "at the opposite end to the resort".


Like everyone who attempts selection, Stuart said the course moved him out of his comfort zone.


"You learn your limits and how far you can go," he said.


"Basically, you have to be confident in yourself to be able to have a go."


The big difficulty for Stuart, as expected, was learning the basics of infantry soldiering.


"As you can guess, I haven't spent a lot of time out bush. But you not only learn from the instructors, but from the guys in the group, most of whom come from infantry."


Sam, on the other hand, has been in infantry for all of his four years in the Army.


Like Stuart, he also has family military history to draw on, with his father and grandfather both having served in the Army.


And Sam also always had it as a goal to attempt SASR selection.


"Even though I had an infantry background, I found it [the course] extremely physically demanding," said the pint-sized soldier with the baby face, who went from 68kg to 55kg during selection. (Stuart went from 92 to 80kg).


"Yes, well, I don't weigh much to begin with, and the food deprivation does get to you at first. But you get used to it."


Despite the difficulties, the duo were encouraged by those around them on the course.


"We were all of a single purpose, so it was motivating to have like-minded people around," said Sam.


"We all wanted the same thing, so that made us all push towards a common goal and made it easier to cope with the demands, knowing that other people were suffering the same as you."


For both soldiers, the change in culture has been enlightening.


"It's a highly-demanding unit as far as work goes," said Sam. "But while the hours are long, they make a point of taking downtime if it's there. You don't hang around if there's nothing on.


"I'd compare it to playing in a professional sporting team, where everyone just wants to perform at a constantly higher standard. The type of work also makes us a very close-knit bunch.


"And living in Perth is great. The living standards and lifestyle are high. It's a place where you'd want to bring up kids."

[BiZ]

4RAR was re-raised as a light infantry unit in February 1995, and was quickly selected to undertake the new role of a Commando Battalion.

It was officially renamed 4RAR(Cdo) in February 1997, with the officla operation role of "conducting offensive and recovery operations beyond the range and capability of other ADF elements."

As always, Chops is on the money.

[reverence]

Ravenclaw you seem a bit pre occupied with money. Remember SF is about the job not the pay packet(or should be anyway). The key to Commando's is in the new word added to the role as stated above and that is "LARGE- scale offensive operations beyond the range and capability of other ADF elements" Heres a quote the old CO gave last year
"The army and the people of Australia will gain a highly trained and motivated force capable of performing a wide range of activities beyond the capability of conventional forces. The battalion will conduct tactical operations within a strategic framework, encompassing such activities as:
Evacuation operations
Point of entry seizure
Entry from air and sea
Protection operations
Support to special recovery operations
Combat search and rescue
Training assistance
Target aquisition
Domestic counter terrorism, and
Advanced force operations similar to those currently conducted by SASR"
As you can see they are a busy bunch of lads and it sure as hell beats sitting in hole on High Range with 30 blank rounds for the whole EX picking spear grass out of your socks for weeks at a time. People may be interested to hear that 100% of 4RAR blokes doing SASR selection in the past 18 months have finished it with a 90+% acceptance rate compared to 20% of other applicants so whether you see it as a progression to Perth or as a career in itself(which it most definately is-the lads from Perth are pissed of at the money and assets getting thrown at 4RAR) give it a go forget get treated like a 3 year old in a regular unit.

Catchyas

[reverence]

This is a long one but bear with me as I feel passionat about this isue.Applicants for Direct Entry to SF undergo physical/Psych and Aptittude testing prior to enlistment to screen for suitability for SF. They must then do Recruit training and IET's at the Inf Centre. They are then tested again for suitability to do the SF Barrier test. If they pass this they go onto selection/reo cycle. There seems to be some who think it involves taking a bloke straight from the dole office and then giving him an MP5 and and a square rig. However numbers thusfar have proven that this will not create suitable numbers of succesful candidates to fill the voids in SF units. We still really want applicants from within the ADF. Once upon a time there would be 120 people on an SASR/Commando selection now we are lucky to get 20 or 30. With a 15-30% pass rate you do the math. Given the operational tempo of the past few years a lot more of the guys who have been there done that are getting out to do other things. Force generation and retention are big issues for SF at present. I did selection when I was 24(joined at 17)I wish I'd done it when I was 20 that would have been 4 years less of putting up with barracks bull****, **** pay, little funding or resources and only 1 20 minute chopper ride a year(trust me 2 RAR aint Airmobile in the yank sense). The worst that can happen is you get fit as hell and dont make it. The best is a career with like minded professionals training and soldiering on the edge using the latest in military technology/hardware. 4RAR took blokes straight out of Singo-those that passed are good skills wise but truth be told they are not all particularly mature. It's not their fault they do what any 18/19 year old away from home for the first time earning a decent crust have or ever will do-girls/expensive toys and drink. Myself and the other senior guys just don't think an SF unit is the right environment for these young studs to be finding their feet. and they seem to take for granted the relaxed attitude to discipline in SF pushing the bounds if you know what I mean(not all but enough to be noticed). with . I guess those years in the real army did me some good in that I appreciate where I am now and skill sets like good solid shooting/first aid/nav etc can be taught in weeks/months but take years to perfect. All you 20 to 30 year old guys whether you're a drop short, grunt, bucket or handbag have a go theres nothing to lose.

[LongWayToTheTop]

Hi,
Pls dont mind my asking but regarding the following "direct civilian recruitment"

details of which r here :

http://www.defencejobs.gov.au/careers_explorer/Army514.html

The pay seems to be very high indeed ~$74000(AUD) per annum for a PRIVATE!!!

I'm gonna be going to university soon (UNSW)-(btw,which is the best rated uni??)

After i'm out i wanna apply into any of the ADF forces,obviously starting as an officer since i'll be a graduate.

Does the 4RAR accept officers into their ranks(obviously yes but some more details pls since the articles concentrate on lower ranks)....so can i get into the 4rar as an officer and if yes at what pay scale?

Also my parents are forcing me to do engineering at UNSW,so what r my job prospects in the ADF and which branch offers the best pay again(i just wanna be in military for right reasons,which branch depends on pay :roll: )

Thanks a lot.

who gives two ****s what the payment is they do it for the action mate.

[Basil]

Hi Lads, don't know if someone has posted these photo's here or not yet, they've been in magazine publications, searched for them on this site and couldn't find em- so here they are:-

Note: Apart from Vis Low res Shots Also Linked High res Shots.

First up is a photo of 4RAR(CDO) Entering a Building
http://www.defence.gov.au/opfalconer/images/gallery/090503b/JPAU15APRO3JC05_lo.jpg

http://www.defence.gov.au/opfalconer/images/gallery/090503b/JPAU15APRO3JC05.jpg


And Now SASR Lads and there LPRV's.

http://www.defence.gov.au/opfalconer/images/gallery/090503b/JPAU18APR03JC13_lo.jpg

http://www.defence.gov.au/opfalconer/images/gallery/090503b/JPAU18APR03JC13.jpg

http://www.defence.gov.au/opfalconer/images/gallery/090503b/P1010059_lo.jpg

http://www.defence.gov.au/opfalconer/images/gallery/090503b/P1010059.jpg

Below: Note Javelin in back of first LPRV and MK19 40mm Nade launcher
http://www.defence.gov.au/opfalconer/images/gallery/090503b/P1010069_lo.jpg

http://www.defence.gov.au/opfalconer/images/gallery/090503b/P1010069.jpg

http://www.defence.gov.au/opfalconer/images/gallery/090503b/P1010060_lo.jpg

http://www.defence.gov.au/opfalconer/images/gallery/090503b/P1010060.jpg


and finally below:- Note SASR to extreme left carrying a modified M4- scoped up, harris bipod and crane style folding stock.
http://www.defence.gov.au/opfalconer/images/gallery/090503b/P1010038_lo.jpg

http://www.defence.gov.au/opfalconer/images/gallery/090503b/P1010038.jpg

[hood]

Can you point out the gallery those are from? I'd like to add them to the local albums but I'm not sure what date those were taken from.

[ShotOver]

The Operation Falconer one has been taken down, from what i can see.

Since the operation is over. It is now known as "Operation Catalyst"

http://www.defence.gov.au/opcatalyst/gallery.htm

Have a look at those pictures, all from Op Catalyst... Maybe you can add them to the photo section :D

[venture160]

awesome find pt.

here are some more on there that are pretty sweet
http://www.defence.gov.au/opcatalyst/images/gallery/191103/JPAU16NOV03DH09_lo.jpg
http://www.defence.gov.au/opcatalyst/images/gallery/201103/JPAU16NOV03DH21_lo.jpg
http://www.defence.gov.au/opfalconer/images/gallery/020503b/MSU9708508_lo.jpg
control tower at baghdad international
http://www.defence.gov.au/opfalconer/images/gallery/020503b/Control_lo.jpg

[Jooglae]

Lovely pics man! :)

However, I don't think the subjects of the photos taken won't be very pleased when they find out that they were being "shot at." ;)

[fantassin]

They were followed for about a week by a female ADF photographer so I doubt they'd mind.

[Haiw]

Note the reflex sights on the mounted weapons. ;)

[Basil]

Wonder how many cartons of beer those 1SQN boys bought for the rest of the lads in the West?

[Basil]

Found some more Pics to add to thsi thread, from EAST TAG pre Rugby World Cup

http://www.defence.gov.au/media/download/2003/oct/201003/NIUE20030624-10_lo.jpg

http://www.defence.gov.au/media/download/2003/oct/201003/NIUE20030628-18_lo.jpg

http://www.defence.gov.au/media/download/2003/oct/201003/NSW03-0162-097_lo.jpg

http://www.defence.gov.au/media/download/2003/oct/201003/NIUE20030630-18_lo.jpg


http://www.defence.gov.au/media/download/2003/oct/201003/NSW03-0162-062_lo.jpg

http://www.defence.gov.au/media/download/2003/oct/201003/NSW03-0162-011_lo.jpg


http://www.defence.gov.au/media/download/2003/oct/201003/NSW03-0162-101_lo.jpg

[Basil]

Some More pics, TAG operator and Green Kit

http://www.defence.gov.au/media/download/2003/may/050503/JPAU02MAY03TR001_lo.jpg

http://www.defence.gov.au/media/download/2003/may/050503/JPAU02MAY03TR003_lo.jpg

http://www.defence.gov.au/media/download/2003/may/050503/JPAU02MAY03TR002_lo.jpg[/img]

[MAGNUM]

Here Hi-Res version of the last post' photos.

http://www.defence.gov.au/media/download/2003/may/050503.cfm

[reverence]

Basil-the lad on the left of your last pic has an XM 15 Bushmaster. Besides a removable cheek piece it has a standard telescopic but a la the M4. Also notice the guy on the right has a fast ex clip undone-drop and give me 50!!

[digrar]

It's a velcro flap not a fast ex clip.

[Jack Mehoff]

I thought Aussie used Steyr Aug as their standard rifle

http://www.defence.gov.au/media/download/2003/may/050503/JPAU02MAY03TR002_lo.jpg

[digrar]

The regular army does, SASR and 4RAR use the m4.

[Gringo]

http://www.defence.gov.au/media/download/2003/may/050503/JPAU02MAY03TR001_lo.jpg

That is one nice looking MP5K

[MAGNUM]

IMPRESSIVE!! :D :D :D :D :D :D

http://www.defence.gov.au/media/download/2003/may/050503/JPAU02MAY03TR001.jpg

[haze99]

Impressive photos, thanks for sharing them!
Are the M-4's in use by the Aussie's, Colt or Bushmaster? I know the UK SAS went with Diemaco C-8 series carbines.
What model respirator (gas mask or protective mask) is that? looks Brit!

[reverence]

Digrar-click on the link for the blown up version-Its got both velcro and a milspec fastex clip. The top flap is open and neither fastex nor velcro are stopping him dropping kit out of his pouch.

[Basil]

Are the M-4's in use by the Aussie's, Colt or Bushmaster
M4A5's are Colt design- built here in Aust?
Also have Bushmaster variants as well- Have seen pics of TAG Snipers with them.

[digrar]

Have another look, there are no clips on that flap.

[BT_Recon]

no clips there :roll:

The outside flap im guessing is another 60 rounder pouch mounted sideways on his vest. There arent any fastex on that

[reverence]

either way the pouch is undone and having a pouch unsecure unless you've got your hand in (or on the verge of) it is bad form. It doesnt matter if you are in 6th water bottle repair unit or RSM SASR.

[BT_Recon]

they're all empty..... it may be to show they're empty..... or it just got caught and he didnt notice.

[digrar]

It's a media day and all his mates are off skulking somewhere while he is playing show pony. I am sure he doesn't give a s#@t about his empty, open pouch.

[reverence]

You sound like you are getting a bit defensive mate. Im not saying hes a bad soldier or a failure as a human being. Ive left pouches open and I've pinged opps for doing the same it prevents MEI's getting lost(or maybe that good stick book you havnt read yet) You seem to care more about nit picking what method he uses to fasten the pouch as a means of saying it wasnt a valid comment than I bet he does about the pouch. I simply noticed it was open(as blokes should be constantly checking their mates cam, gear etc)that is all.period. He may have just opened it and it may be empty. It was a light hearted comment because seeing it reminded me of all the times i and others have gotten push ups for a button or pouch undone or not having a pen or pocket knife on you etc. If he saved your first born from a fire or some such and you've taken personal offense at me pointing this out I apologize and should realise(especially because I am in SF) that SF soldiers are beyond any comment that may make us appear less god like. otherwise build a bridge and get the f**k over it. I have

[digrar]

No drama's mate it's just a bit of back and forth.
I'm sure if he was on the job his gear would all be secure, he would have checked himself out as would his mates.
We don't tend to punish blokes for that sort of thing outside of recruits or high intensity training courses, generally just a quiet "sort your s#$t out" does it.

[Belg]

Jack Mehoff and Digrar: I have seen 4RAR with Steyr's (with M204 40mm grenade launchers attached)

One time coming back from an exersise at puckapunyal army base they were also, a few of their commandos were holding Steyr's.

Those bastards to it tough too. They were staying in the same area of puckapunyal as i was (old 5 TRG group barracks for anyone whose been there) They are by far pucka's worst and oldest accomodation. Full of asbestos, floors rotting away and or broken, most rooms with no carpet, 1 'line' consists of 4 rooms (approx 5x7m) with 4 beds in each corner, 4 chairs, 2-4 school tables (from atleast the 70's) and 4 Big Metal 'cabinets for storage. Those beds are small too, i feel for anyone over 6 foot tall who has to sleep in one (myself included).

Just thought i'd point that out.

[digrar]

G'day Belg, I had mates go through those lines when 1RTB raised E Coy down in pucka in 1996. They had to dodge holes in the floor just to get out of the buildings.
With the Steyr being the in service rifle for the ARA you will find that both 4RAR and SASR have them in the armoury. Sometimes they are going to have to blend in with other Australian service men and women. Have a look at the photos from Iraq and you will see the boys with their m4s. Photo's from East Timor show them using a combination of both.

[Hyphen]

G'day fellas. As you can see I'm new to the forums but have had a look at all the 4RAR/TAG/SASR topics I could find. I've read my fair share of Aussie military books but still have a few questions on the SASR and 4RAR.

* Is the 'specialist' troop organisation a part of the SASR as it is the Brit SAS (eg. Mobility, Airbourne Troops etc)?

* If so does that mean only 'mobility troops' would have conducted raids and patrols using the Landrovers?

* What role would a junior officer (LT) in the SASR have? Would it involve conducting patrols or planning and other duties back at base camp?

* Is 4RAR (CDO) organised along the lines of a standard InfBat? Eg. 3 Sections in a Platoon. 3 Platoons in a Company etc?

* Does 4RAR always conduct missions at platoon level or are sections sent out on seperate missions?

Any info would be appreciated.

Cheers,

Hyphen

[RoBBo]

* What role would a junior officer (LT) in the SASR have? Would it involve conducting patrols or planning and other duties back at base camp?


after reading SAS phantoms of war by david horner it has numerous accounts of LT's leading patrols, not 100% sure if that is there primary role within SASR.

[deutschersoldat]

wow nice picture

http://www.defencejobs.gov.au/CAMPAIGN/SpecialForces/Images/Gallery/6.jpg

[Hyphen]

* What role would a junior officer (LT) in the SASR have? Would it involve conducting patrols or planning and other duties back at base camp?


after reading SAS phantoms of war by david horner it has numerous accounts of LT's leading patrols, not 100% sure if that is there primary role within SASR.

I'd imagine they would lead patrols at troop (4 patrols, around 20 troopers?) level but this would be extremely rare. Otherwise I can't see them doing much unless they are out on patrol with the troop HQ (not sure if they have one equivalent to a platoon HQ).

[BiZ]

August 29th 2001 Re: TAMPA incident.

Lt Col "Gus" Gilmore lead the first RHIB out to the Tampa to board the ship.

SF Officers do get their hands dirtier than Regular Infantry Regiments.

[Aussie E]

Great photo's. J.H.Farrell's photobook SPECWARRIORS has ton's of photos on the SASR.

[Michael RVR]

Looks like airsofter, hehe
http://www.defencejobs.gov.au/CAMPAIGN/SpecialForces/Images/Gallery/3.jpg

Okay kiddies anyone notice the shotgun on his left side. Ballistic breeching.

Don't know if they use the 870's anymore, i've seen pics with them using the Masterkey system recently.

I think 4RAR was two companies until recently, i'm pretty sure its now up to 3. AFAIK commando patrols arent along the same number lines as infantry patrols.

[BiZ]

Don't know if they use the 870's anymore, i've seen pics with them using the Masterkey system recently.

The photos you've no doubt seen with the "masterkey" system on the M4 were taken and released around the same time those demonstration photos were released with the 'bungy cord' 870 pumpy by the side of the Trooper.

M4 underslung shotgun system is limited issue and will not entirely replace the use of stand alone shotgun systems for CQB/Urban Operations, and certainly not in the TAG role.

[haze99]

WHAT!? No F-88's! The Aussie SAS went with the M-4!? Colt is making a killi'n in M-4 sales!

[peace_benny5405]

Post your Aussie SASR , 4RAR , SOTG ... pics in here ...

better we never seen on Defence.gov.au p-)


http://www.sordaustralia.com/images/sordinaction/ci.jpg

http://www.sordaustralia.com/images/sordinaction/ci1.jpg

http://www.sordaustralia.com/images/sordinaction/ci3.jpg

http://www.sordaustralia.com/images/sordinaction/ci2.jpg

http://www.sordaustralia.com/images/sordinaction/cdo%20dili%202.jpg what is that little black on his body armour near the flag ?

http://www.sordaustralia.com/images/sordinaction/cdo%20dili%201.jpg what's this body armour ? SORD ?

http://www.sordaustralia.com/images/sordinaction/dili06cdo1.jpg

http://www.sordaustralia.com/images/sordinaction/dili06cdo2.jpg

http://www.sordaustralia.com/images/sordinaction/dili06cdo3.jpg

http://www.sordaustralia.com/images/sordinaction/cdo%20dili%203.jpg

Does any one have higher resolution of these pics taken from East timor ?




:)

[DuckRat]

http://www.sordaustralia.com/images/sordinaction/cdo%20dili%202.jpg what is that little black on his body armour near the flag ?

To the right is a radio mike.

[peace_benny5405]

To the right is a radio mike.



what's the model of it ? it's a Mike with speaker ? or there's attach another headphone on it ?

[StuRat]

Seeming as they are SF, probably shouldn't talk about what gear and stuff they are using right now, might breach OPSEC.

[DuckRat]

what's the model of it ? it's a Mike with speaker ? or there's attach another headphone on it ?

I don't know, I was just stating the obvious.

[Nephilim]

why should the fistmic info be under the shroud of opsec??

theres even info about it on the producers website, that everyone can access...

its made by selex... should be hint enough.

[Sand Man]

4RAR

http://lh5.ggpht.com/kaymemes2/SFK0H-lf94I/AAAAAAAAAl4/j8uLwrHk-74/1185921089808.jpg?imgmax=640

Photo by Corporal Chris Moore Caption: Soldiers from the Tactical Assault Group as part of the 4th Battalion Royal Australian Regiment (4RAR) Commandos, put their counter-terrorism drills into effect at the newly-developed Special Forces Training Centre Facility in Holsworthy. Title: Special Forces Training Facility opens at Holsworthy Deep Caption: The new Special Forces Training Facilities, valued at $94 million, will be one of only four of its kind in the world providing leading-edge training to counter-terrorism forces. The new facilities will include indoor and outdoor multi-level electronic and live firing ranges as well as a variety of training environments for 4 RAR Commando. The facilities will be used to train for counter-terrorism scenarios and other specific Special Forces roles. These state-of-the-art facilities will greatly benefit Sydney-based Commandos and complement existing training facilities in Western Australia for the ADF’s Special Air Service

http://lh5.ggpht.com/kaymemes2/SFK0FVXVYnI/AAAAAAAAAlw/Ur-CEhVQTcE/1185921031308.jpg?imgmax=720

Photo by Corporal Chris Moore Caption: Soldiers from the Tactical Assault Group as part of the 4th Battalion Royal Australian Regiment (4RAR) Commandos put into effect their counter-terrorism drills at the newly-developed Special Forces Training Centre Facility in Holsworthy. Title: Special Forces Training Facility opens at Holsworthy Deep Caption: The new Special Forces Training Facilities, valued at $94 million, will be one of only four of its kind in the world providing leading-edge training to counter-terrorism forces. The new facilities will include indoor and outdoor multi-level electronic and live firing ranges as well as a variety of training environments for 4 RAR Commando. The facilities will be used to train for counter-terrorism scenarios and other specific Special Forces roles. These state-of-the-art facilities will greatly benefit Sydney-based Commandos and complement existing training facilities in Western Australia for the ADF’s Special Air Service R

http://lh5.ggpht.com/haoxiang123.combudui/R-BtgUsH26I/AAAAAAAAGpw/r4h8PopFmgc/2600900537%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=512

Photo by Leading Aircraftman Rodney Welch Caption: Australian Special Forces preparing to performing a building clearance part of their demonstration at Holsworthy Barracks. Deep Caption: Special Operations Command -- Australia demonstrated its counter-terrorist capabilities to 150 Australian and overseas delegates attending the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Australia 2007 Security Conference at Holsworthy on December 13th, 2006. Operators from the 4RAR (Cdo) Tactical Assault Group - East and the Incident Response Regiment provided static and dynamic displays of enhanced capabilities available to State security agencies should they require assistance in resolving a terrorist incident. APEC 2007 involves 100 days of meetings throughout Australia prior to the APEC Leaders meeting in Sydney. The display was part of a larger day-long activity that included demonstrations by the NSW Police and the Australian Federal Police.

http://lh6.ggpht.com/haoxiang123.combudui/R-BtfksH25I/AAAAAAAAGpo/qc8wAgkINq4/2600901499%5B1%5D.jpg?imgmax=512

Photo by Leading Aircraftman Rodney Welch Caption: Australian Special Forces performing a building clearance part of their demonstration at Holsworthy Barracks. Deep Caption: Special Operations Command -- Australia demonstrated its counter-terrorist capabilities to 150 Australian and overseas delegates attending the Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Australia 2007 Security Conference at Holsworthy on December 13th, 2006. Operators from the 4RAR (Cdo) Tactical Assault Group - East and the Incident Response Regiment provided static and dynamic displays of enhanced capabilities available to State security agencies should they require assistance in resolving a terrorist incident. APEC 2007 involves 100 days of meetings throughout Australia prior to the APEC Leaders meeting in Sydney. The display was part of a larger day-long activity that included demonstrations by the NSW Police and the Australian Federal Police.

http://lh5.ggpht.com/eltiradorsolitario/RsZzAOmam0I/AAAAAAAABj4/pzFDP8ylSGo/sasr6boatatvew4.jpg

A direct recruiting scheme was launched today for the Special Operations Command of the Australian Defence Force. A demonstration of capabilities was presented at Garden Island Dockyard in Sydney, including a parachute insertion and fast-roping from two Blackhawk helicopters. Soldiers from 4RAR deployed from a C130J Hercules aircraft and parachuted into Sydney Harbour. They were then brought inshore by a number of Commando Watercraft.

[kinney_bmx]

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2376/2617733212_3cae53194b_o.jpg
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3292/2616909777_c4e3c259b5_o.jpg
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3155/2617732908_1e6815a64e_b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3152/2616909905_582c7e9e92_b.jpg

No captions sorry
I have more somewhere

[kinney_bmx]

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3269/2617744148_6af431f182_o.jpg
SASR Vietnam. I love the L1A1 with the XM148
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3289/2617006815_964fd7cb54_b.jpg
SOTG

[Albatross]

What is selection like for 4RAR and SOTG?

[kinney_bmx]

A few more vietnam era pics
and a Afghanistan pic
http://img511.imageshack.us/img511/8066/sasr3vg9.jpg
http://img529.imageshack.us/img529/1139/1015by8.jpg
http://img511.imageshack.us/img511/4237/2004s78601lohw8.jpg
http://img511.imageshack.us/img511/148/adfsasr7im3qc6.jpg

[Sirpad]

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3292/2616909777_c4e3c259b5_o.jpg

damn, that's a long hair for a soldier!

[Ravage]

Australian Army 171st Aviation Squadron

http://img504.imageshack.us/img504/894/20070807adf8262658029be9.jpg

http://img504.imageshack.us/img504/7189/20070612adf8185016016xd6.jpg

http://img504.imageshack.us/img504/5275/20070612adf8185016025ju9.jpg

http://img504.imageshack.us/img504/9006/20070612adf8246638166ne2.jpg

http://img504.imageshack.us/img504/8633/jpau24mar04dh017uy6.jpg

http://img504.imageshack.us/img504/577/jpau22mar04dh066yt8.jpg

[kinney_bmx]

http://img530.imageshack.us/img530/4769/tageastjo2.jpg
TAG East
http://img530.imageshack.us/img530/686/4rar7jt1.jpg
4RAR
http://img530.imageshack.us/img530/2609/4rar113zc4.jpg
4RAR
http://img55.imageshack.us/img55/2648/c0303512loen8.jpg

Members of 4 RAR conducting Live Fire
training in the Middle East
http://img246.imageshack.us/img246/2982/jpau17mar03dh11loyk0.jpg

Members of 4 RAR conducting a night patrol in the Middle East.

[kinney_bmx]

http://img512.imageshack.us/img512/4117/assu7kw6.jpg
http://img398.imageshack.us/img398/8035/augulf201ig9.jpg
http://img398.imageshack.us/img398/8260/augulf202xi2.jpg
http://img512.imageshack.us/img512/3718/aussies5ua7.jpg
http://img227.imageshack.us/img227/6939/lfqw4.jpg
http://img398.imageshack.us/img398/671/sasr4jv7.jpg
http://img227.imageshack.us/img227/4220/4unloadingapr24zu6.jpg

4RAR(Cdo) soldiers provide security protection while valuable medical supplies are unloaded from the C130 at Baghdad International Airport. Photo by Cpl Darren Hilder, 1JPAU(P)

http://img398.imageshack.us/img398/6119/14457496030f8ee1a015oex6.jpg

Special Forces Direct Recruiting Scheme (SFDRS) soldiers wait to advance during a live fire platoon attack at the culmination of their training at the Special Forces Training Centre which prepares them for a posting into the Australian Defence Force's Special Operations Command.

[Nephilim]

do the cloth pieces actually serve for anything more than breaking up the shape of the rifle?

nice pics :)

[kinney_bmx]

http://img513.imageshack.us/img513/3043/jpau25mar04nr06lozt2.jpg

The in-exercise response to a terrorist incident conducted in Tasmania as part of Exercise Mercury. Its purpose is to showcase the capability of having proven command structures, procedures and techniques within our national resources to deal with threats or acts of terrorism in Australia.

http://www.defence.gov.au/media/download/2004/mar/260304/JPAU25MAR04NR06.jpg
http://img185.imageshack.us/img185/4262/jpau22mar04dh182losr5.jpg

Special Air Service Regiment (SASR) troopers storm the flight deck of HMAS Kanimbla after roping from a 5 Aviation Regiment helicopter as part of ongoing training for Exercise Mercury in the seas north of Australia.
http://www.defence.gov.au/media/download/2004/mar/260304/JPAU22MAR04DH182.jpg
http://img355.imageshack.us/img355/3421/jpau22mar04dh154loid0.jpg

Special Air Service Regiment (SASR) troopers in a rigid hull inflatable boat along side HMAS Kanimbla conduct water operations as part of Exercise Mercury in the seas north of Darwin.
http://www.defence.gov.au/media/download/2004/mar/260304/JPAU22MAR04DH154.jpg
http://img185.imageshack.us/img185/3896/jpau21mar04dh090loem1.jpg

A Special Air Service Regiment (SASR) trooper scales a ladder up the side of HMAS Kanimbla during exercises as part of Exercise Mercury in the seas north of Darwin.

http://www.defence.gov.au/media/download/2004/mar/260304/JPAU21MAR04DH090.jpg
http://img512.imageshack.us/img512/3686/jpau21mar04dh003loco2.jpg

A Special Air Service Regiment (SASR) trooper scales a ladder up the side of HMAS Kanimbla during exercises as part of Exercise Mercury in the seas north of Darwin.

http://www.defence.gov.au/media/download/2004/mar/260304/JPAU21MAR04DH003.jpg
http://img185.imageshack.us/img185/4609/jpau21mar04dh025looi5.jpg

Special Air Service Regiment (SASR) troopers in a rigid hull inflatable boat along side HMAS Kanimbla conduct water operations as part of Exercise Mercury in the seas north of Darwin.
http://www.defence.gov.au/media/download/2004/mar/260304/JPAU21MAR04DH025.jpg
http://img355.imageshack.us/img355/1214/jpau22mar04dh144louh2.jpg

A Special Air Service Regiment (SASR) trooper onboard HMAS Kanimbla carries equipment after roping from a 5 Aviation Regiment Black Hawk helicopter as part of ongoing training for Exercise Mercury in the seas north of Australia.
http://www.defence.gov.au/media/download/2004/mar/260304/JPAU22MAR04DH144.jpg
http://img185.imageshack.us/img185/3036/jpau22mar04dh066lotu8.jpg

Special Air Service Regiment (SASR) troopers conduct fast roping exercises from a 5 Aviation Regiment Black Hawk helicopter aboard HMAS Kanimbla as part of ongoing training for Exercise Mercury in the seas north of Australia.
http://www.defence.gov.au/media/download/2004/mar/260304/JPAU22MAR04DH066.jpg
http://img355.imageshack.us/img355/3397/jpau22mar04dh024lovu5.jpg

Special Air Service Regiment (SASR) troopers conduct casting exercises from a 5 Aviation Regiment Black Hawk helicopter as part of ongoing training for Exercise Mercury in the seas north of Australia. A safety boat from HMAS Kanimbla stands by.
http://www.defence.gov.au/media/download/2004/mar/260304/JPAU22MAR04DH024.jpg

[Flagg]

Some really great photos I haven't seen before..............

[LoboCanada]

Great pics! Keep em comming.

[kinney_bmx]

Some video links for the same exercise as my last post
http://www.defence.gov.au/media/download/2004/mar/260304/Mercury01.mpg
http://www.defence.gov.au/media/download/2004/mar/260304/Mercury02.mpg
http://www.defence.gov.au/media/download/2004/mar/260304/Mercury03.mpg

[vinny_121_ND]

Does anyone remember those photos of either SASR or TAG in sydney protecting either john howard or the minister of defense, on and off a blackhawk helicopter?

I did a thorough search on google and came up with nothing.