3rd Brigade Commander confidant troops could deploy using Port of Townsville

With global tensions rising, the ability of Townsville troops to mobilise through the port has been scrutinised. Hear what the 3rd Brigade commander said — and why NQ could be in the running for a new littoral ship base.

Townsville has the opportunity to host some of the nations largest defence capabilities but as global tensions rise, the city’s infrastructure and its ability to support troops if the call for war comes is being scrutinised.

During the Future Townsville campaign, the importance of the Australian Defence Force (ADF’s) presence in Townsville was spotlighted alongside what improvements could be made to ensure it is operating as efficiently as possible.

One of the key areas was the Port of Townsville, due to its vital role in deploying troops and military vehicles during exercises and its capacity to support operations in a wartime scenario.

Commander of the 3rd Brigade, Brigadier Ben McLennan said he was “absolutely” confident he could efficiently mobilise his brigade through the port in its current state.

While he the brigade as a whole hadn’t tested their ability to deploy using the port, they have conducted partial rehearsals and would continue to do so in the upcoming Talisman Sabre Exercise.

“I am confident that we could do it readily if we needed to,” he said.

Australian Army soldiers from the 3rd Brigade disembark from HMAS Adelaide during the conclusion of exercise Indo Pacific Endevour at the Townsville Port, Townsville, QLD. PHOTO: TPR Dana Millington

The transition to an armoured amphibious force follows the Defence Strategic Review, which reprioritised capabilities to ensure the ADF remains fit for purpose and ready to face modern threats.

As part of this change, the Littoral Manoeuvre Program was established to produce a new fleet of littoral vessels.

These medium and heavy vessels – capable of transporting tanks, redbacks or HIMARS launchers – will be based at a yet-to-be decided location in northern Australia.

Brigadier McLennan said Townsville would be considered as an option for the amphibious base.

“Regardless of where they base the vessels, Townsville Port through their engagement with Army headquarters and defence in Canberra have already planned on how we would roll on and roll off those platforms when they arrive,” Brigadier McLennan said.

As tensions rise in the middle east particularly with the conflict between Israel and Iran, the readiness of the nation’s defence is under increased scrutiny.

3rd Brigade Change of Command Ceremony at Lavarack Barracks. Brigadier Ben McLennan is the new Commanding Officer of 3rd Brigade. Picture: Evan Morgan

A defence spokesman said they wouldn’t comment on the readiness of the ADF’s capabilities and units due to the need to prioritise safety for their members and families.

“Australia is deeply concerned about the deteriorating security situation in the Middle East,” he said.

“The Government urges all parties to de-escalate, exercise restraint, and return to dialogue and diplomacy.”

Brigadier McLennan labelled the events in the Middle East as “sobering” however it wouldn’t have any direct influence on the people under his command at this point in time.

“The mission of the 3rd Brigade is to prepare in every respect for war so we are constantly rehearsing, readying, building relationships as if it’s our last opportunity to do so,” he said.

“I think what’s happening in the Middle East, besides from being very concerning to all Australians, more broadly than that it’s just a reminder that we live in a volatile world.

“It reminds us again that a military that is rehearsed, that is ready, that has the relationships that will hold when all else fails, it reminds us again of how important that is.

“You can’t relax, you need to stay on point, you need to be ready to run onto the field.”

Originally published as 3rd Brigade Commander confidant troops could deploy using Port of Townsville