In a significant boost to its defense capabilities, Papua New Guinea (PNG) is set to receive 12 up-armoured Land Cruiser vehicles, generously gifted by Australia.

The announcement was made during the 30th PNG-Australia Ministerial Forum held in 2024, underscoring the strong ties and commitment between the two nations.

These military-grade vehicles, which enhance both mobility and protective capabilities, will not be equipped with fixed armaments, ensuring they remain versatile tools for the Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF).

Australia’s Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Defence, Richard Marles will arrive into PNG this afternoon and will deliver the armoured vehicles.

“Our shared geography, history and security interests make Papua New Guinea and Australia natural partners,” he said.

He will also be officially handing over 12 up-armoured Land Cruisers to the Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) at Murray Barracks, enhancing Papua New Guinea’s ability to respond to domestic security challenges and demonstrating the strength of our defence ties.

PNG Minister for Defence Dr Billy Joseph confirmed the hand over of the armoured vehicles saying in a statement that “the vehicles were lighter “than the Bush Masters armoured vehicles used by the Australian Defence Force (ADF) and will be used by the PNGDF for internal security operations”.

The up-armoured Land Cruisers will become sovereign assets once delivered, symbolizing a long-term investment in the nation’s security infrastructure.

The gift includes a variety of vehicles—comprising three “Vader” variants and nine “Rhino” models.

This strategic mix has been crafted to maximize internal space and offer the flexibility to transport personnel and equipment efficiently.

The Vader variant can accommodate six passengers, while the Rhino can carry up to ten, providing PNGDF with diverse operational capability suited to a range of mission types.