13 May 2025
Whether it’s arranging cargo flights or navigating last-minute diplomatic clearances, Sergeant Mikaela Harris plays a crucial role in keeping the ADF’s Middle East operations moving smoothly.
Deployed on Operation Accordion, she also coordinates life support for forward support teams, manages flights and helps facilitate rotations back to Australia.
“Everything we do here has a flow-on effect – if one piece is delayed, it can impact movements across the entire region,” Sergeant Harris said.
Her work requires constant coordination with contractors, overseas authorities and ADF units to keep missions running despite delays, maintenance issues or changing priorities.
It’s a fast-paced role that’s tested her adaptability, especially during Ramadan, when tight timelines and late clearances added pressure to already complex operations.
When she first arrived, she realised how different the deployed environment was from home, with greater responsibility, fewer support staff and a need to make critical decisions quickly.
“The job role is fairly different compared to home – I do a lot less flight booking and more planning and coordinating of our aircraft and managing intra-theatre movements within the Middle East Rregion,” Sergeant Harris said.
She also facilitates leave travel for personnel by reviewing flight requests and coordinating bookings through contracted specialists.
“It’s great to help people get home or take a break – you know how much it means to them, especially halfway through a long deployment,” she said.
Sergeant Harris keeps busy with gym sessions, volleyball and beach trips, but looks forward to home, friends and her own cooking.
“Sticky date pudding nights are the biggest morale boost here; we even did a cooking class just to learn how to make it,” she said.
“I’m already planning a Bali trip, so I’ll take a few days off with friends before jumping into another course at the end of the month.”
