Ex SOUTHERN CROSS 2025 - Strengthening the Canadian Ranger and Australian Defence Force partnership

This year, NORFORCE hosted three staff members and 12 CRs from 4 CRPG, selected for their diverse skill sets.

Ex SC25 began in Darwin, Northern Territory, at NORFORCE’s Darwin Squadron Headquarters. The CRs received various forms of training to prepare for Australia’s wilderness and to learn skills essential to NORFORCE’s operations. Participants trained with the F89 Minimi and HK416 assault rifles, followed by water safety training that included a 100‑meter swim in uniform, treading water and capsized vessel drills. Wildlife safety briefings covered hazards such as crocodiles and jellyfish. The group then moved to Shoal Bay for survival training, which included friction fire lighting, night navigation using the Southern Cross constellation and plant identification.

Following the Darwin phase, the group flew to Broome, Western Australia, to train at Kimberley Squadron’s Forward Operating Base Robert Knox. The CRs were divided into two sections for concurrent training. One group conducted amphibious operations at Ngamakoon in King Sound and Cone Bay, while the other trained at Neem Campground and Beagle Bay. Activities included shoreline surveillance and covert observation posts via capsized vessel and Regional Patrol Vessel, as well as medicinal plant identification and mud crabbing, guided by a Yaburara Elder who shared the history of the Beagle Bay Mission. Kimberley Squadron also delivered specialized coastal training.

Throughout the exercise, the CRs and staff explored the similarities and differences between 4 CRPG and NORFORCE. While both units face common challenges operating in remote areas within their respective AORs, their techniques and procedures differ. NORFORCE’s covert border security tactics contrast with 4 CRPG’s domestic assistance focus. Additionally, NORFORCE provides equipment, whereas the CRs rely on personal gear, as noted by MCpl Emily Coombs.

Despite these differences, both units depend heavily on local community input and support. Maj Jonathan Spiess, Officer Commanding 4 CRPG’s ‘B’ Company, remarked that NORFORCE’s reliance on local communities mirrors 4 CRPG’s approach.

“Isolated communities in our AORs should be considered key terrain in mission analysis,” he said.

Another key value of this exercise is the opportunity to gain insights that cannot be replicated in one country—such as environmental factors—which require firsthand experience to fully understand and adapt to.

As MCpl Joline Couture noted, NORFORCE’s Australian environment posed challenges, especially for those unaccustomed to water. Engagements with specific local communities also provided unique learning experiences. The CRs and 4 CRPG personnel had the chance to connect with Indigenous communities on the Dampier Peninsula, learning their traditions and strengthening ties.

Although this SUE began in 2011, it continues to evolve, with Ex SC25 adopting a higher operational tempo.

“[The exercise is] continually evolving, with greater emphasis placed on environmental survival training and patrolling,” Maj Spiess said.