Multinational Forces Refurbish Facilities at Igam Barracks
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Multinational Forces Refurbish Facilities at Igam Barracks
- Exercise Pukpuk 2026 saw approximately K15 million invested in infrastructure projects at Igam Barracks.
- The long-running Exercise Pukpuk, which includes forces from Papua New Guinea, Australia, New Zealand, and Fiji, concluded its 2026 iteration on September 1.
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Multinational military forces recently completed significant refurbishment work at Igam Barracks in Lae, Papua New Guinea, as part of Exercise Pukpuk 2026. This year’s exercise, which ran from July to September, brought together over 120 personnel from the Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF), Australian Defence Force (ADF), New Zealand Defence Force, and Republic of Fiji Military Forces. The collaborative effort focused on upgrading training and living facilities, with the total infrastructure cost for the 2026 exercise reaching approximately K15 million.
The completed projects at Igam Barracks included the refurbishment of four structures, an upgraded forward operating base training facility, a one-kilometer section of improved perimeter road, and renovated accommodation for about 50 soldiers. Colonel Michael Percy Marai, Joint Forces Commander and Land Component Commander, highlighted that these projects, costing around K50 million, utilized 90% locally acquired materials and supplies. The upgrades are expected to provide lasting benefits for PNGDF personnel, improving their training, rest, and preparation for duties.
Exercise Pukpuk has been an annual joint engineering activity since 2003, aiming to strengthen regional partnerships, enhance combined engineering capabilities, and deliver infrastructure improvements for defense and local communities. Major Ian Thomson, Commander of the Australian contingent, emphasized the practical and professional benefits for all involved, noting that the projects were built “shoulder to shoulder” and fostered teamwork and camaraderie. Beyond the construction, the exercise also serves as a platform for participants to share technical expertise, field experience, and modern engineering methods, building trust and strengthening relationships among the participating forces.