Image Gallery: April 2008
Exercise Croix Du Sud
07 April 2008
Exercise CROIX DU SUD 2008 (CDS08) is a six-nation military exercise conducted by the French Armed Forces New Caledonia in New Caledonia from the period 28 March to 12 April.
France, Australia, New Zealand and Tonga, Vanuatu and Papua New Guinea will practise conducting the evacuation of foreign nationals from a threatening situation.
The exercise aims to enhance the capability and interoperability of the armed forces of Pacific countries in preparation to respond to a potential regional emergency or crisis.
Australia’s commitment to the exercise includes a headquarters element, HMA ships KANIMBLA and WOLLONGONG, a composite infantry company from the Army’s 1st Brigade, paratroop instructors and riggers from 3rd Battalion The Royal Australian Regiment who will operate with French paratroopers, one Sea King, and three No.38 Squadron Caribous, as well as providing technical support.
Due to its size and scope, the exercise is expected to attract a high level of interest in the South-West Pacific region and further afield. Although the exercise is conducted biennially in Noumea, it is being conducted for the first time in northern New Caledonia.
| 20080401adf8500210_016 Flight Lieutentant Aaron Dillon walks around a No.38 Squadron Caribou during a pre-flight check at La Tontouta airport in New Caledonia during CDS08. (Date taken: 01 April 2008) Low-Res | Hi-Res |
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| 20080401adf8500210_025 Two No.38 Squadron Caribous about to take off at La Tontouta airport in New Caledonia during CDS08. (Date taken: 01 April 2008) Low-Res | Hi-Res |
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| 20080401adf8500210_032 Leading Aircraftman Chad Griffiths, No.38 Squadron Aircraft Technician, with a Caribou while the flight engineer does checks at La Tontouta airport in New Caledonia during CDS08. (Date taken: 01 April 2008) Low-Res | Hi-Res |
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| 20080401adf8500210_043 A No.38 Squadron Caribou at La Tontouta airport in New Caledonia during CDS08. (Date taken: 01 April 2008) Low-Res | Hi-Res |
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| 20080401adf8500210_045 French Air Force pilot Captain Francois Bailleul with two No.38 Squadron Caribous about to take off at La Tontouta airport in New Caledonia during CDS08. (Date taken: 01 April 2008) Low-Res | Hi-Res |
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| 20080401adf8500210_053 Two No.38 Squadron Caribous about to take off at La Tontouta airport in New Caledonia during CDS08. (Date taken: 01 April 2008) Low-Res | Hi-Res |
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