The approximately 640-strong NORFORCE is one of three Regional Force Surveillance Units (RFSU) in Australia. Together with the 51st Far North Queensland Regiment (51 FNQR)and the Pilbara Regiment, the NORFORCE provides an unique capability for the defense of the vast territory of Australia, particularly the Northern coasts. In peacetime, the RFSU are responsible for conducting surveillance and reconnaissance operations in support of border protection as well as community engagement programs for regional development.
The NORFORCE, like the other RFSUs is made up of locals who are familiar with the areas of operations. About 60% of NORFORCE are aboriginals who are experts in outback survival and tracking.
Besides weapon handling skill, soldiers in the unit are cross-trained in skills such as sniping, medical treatment, driving, small watercraft handling, tracking and operations from the aircraft. These would be useful skill in wartime duties.
Also known as the North-West Mobile Force, NORFORCE is headquartered in Darwin with the responsibility for a 1.8 million square kilometres area of operations in the Northern Territory as well as the Kimberley region of Western Australia. This is arguably the largest area of responsibility of any military units in the world. The Pilara Regiment is responsible for 1.3 million square kilometres in North-western Australia. The 51 FNQR's area of operations cover 640,000 square kilometres.
An in-depth knowledge of their Area of Operations is gathered by conducting regular patrols by foot, vehicle and watercraft; manning static observation posts; and by close communication and liaison with the local authorities and landowners.
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| Soldiers from Australia's NORFORCE on Astell Island. Photo from ABC News |
ABC News
ADF
Straits Times
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