RAA Liaison Letter – 2025 / 2026 Edition 71 architecture in a foreign country was immense. Working alongside the Philippine Army’s ATMOS self-propelled howitzers, Australian gunners demonstrated adaptability, precision, and professionalism at every stage. Upon arrival at Fort Magsaysay, integration training began immediately. 104 Battery’s BC TAC, JFECC, and JFTs worked tirelessly with Filipino counterparts to align SOPs and TTPs, while ISR teams from G21 and G26 embedded early to understand technical differences in ATMOS systems. This collaboration ensured seamless coordination for the live fire exercise (LFX) on 27 August. Meanwhile, the M777A2 troop prepared for its TALO from Darwin. After landing at Clark Air Base, Supacats from 8/12 REGT RAA transported the guns through highways, narrow roads, valleys, and jungle terrain to Fire Support Base Canantong—a demonstration of artillery mobility and ingenuity in challenging terrain. This adaptability highlighted the limitations of HX77 towing in close terrain and reinforced the importance of regional partnerships, such as with New Zealand’s 16th Field Regiment, for future operations. On 27 August, after a demanding infiltration to the OP, Australian JFTs and CCTs coordinated joint fires with Filipino observers. The combined fire plan—executed by G21 and G26—brought together M777A2 and ATMOS systems in an historic moment for Australian artillery. Adding to the complexity, 104 Battery JTACs and JFOs conducted dry controls with Australian F/A-18F Super Hornets and Philippine A-29 Super Tucanos, showcasing true multi-domain integration. The success of this LFX was a testament to the initiative and professionalism of the artillery contingent. Designing and executing range safety procedures in a foreign country required exceptional planning and leadership, and 104 Battery HQ (BC TAC and JFECC) delivered. Their efforts earned the Gunner contingent the prestigious “King of Battle” commendation from the Philippine Army Artillery Regiment Commander—a fitting recognition of their outstanding contribution. Exercise Alon 25 proved that Australian artillery is not only capable of deploying and firing overseas but can do so as part of a fully integrated, multi-domain force. The lessons learned in interoperability, mobility, and joint fires coordination will shape future operations and reinforce the ADF’s ability to project combat power across the Indo-Pacific.
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MjE4NTMz