DESPITE some achievements like air capability restoration and election preparedness among others, the Papua New Guinea Defence Force (PNGDF) continues to face several structural challenges.
This was highlighted in the Government’s seventh year performance report.
Prime Minister James Marape said the force was currently operating at two thirds of its capacity, with more than 2,000 positions vacant.
“An aging force profile, limited recruitment capacity and constraints in training infrastructure have contributed to workforce shortages,” he said.
“Reduced recruitment during the Coronavirus (Covid-19) pandemic and election periods also disrupted personnel planning,” Marape said.
He said much of the organisation’s infrastructure was outdated and not aligned with modern operational requirements.
“Major relocation projects, including Taurama Barracks, Basilisk Naval Base, and the Force Support Battalion, are yet to commence due to funding and preparatory constraints.
“The second phase of the Casa aircraft recovery programme has also been delayed, affecting full restoration of medium-lift air capability.”
Marape said fuel storage infrastructure and broader logistical systems were still under developed, creating vulnerabilities in operational sustainment.
Marape said budgetary pressures continued to affect the implementation of approved initiatives.
“Several National Executive Council (NEC) approved acquisitions, including vehicle procurement programmes, remain unfunded,” he said.
“Large scale infrastructure relocation programmes require multi-billion kina investments, while recurrent expenditures such as outsourced catering services-continue to place pressure on operational budgets.”
Historically, the PNGDF has also relied on rental accommodation for headquarters operations, reflecting earlier infrastructure shortfalls.
Marape said through the public investment programme (PIP), the PNGDF implemented several organisation infrastructure initiatives strategic aimed at strengthening national security presence across key regions including:
- ESTABLISHMENT of the Third Infantry Battalion in Hela, strengthening military presence in the Highlands;
- CONSTRUCTION of border posts at Tumolbil and Green River;
- PREPARATORY work for the relocation of Basilisk Naval Base and Taurama Barracks; and,
- APPROVAL for relocation of these facilities to the lowara site in Western.
The PNGDF also participated in major bilateral and regional military exercises, including: Exercise Talisman Sabre, Exercise Pitch Black and Exercise Olgeta Warrior.
He said these exercises strengthened interoperability with international partners and enhanced operational readiness.
“Between 2019 and 2025, a total of 592 new recruits entered service, with the largest intakes occurring in 2024 and 2025,” Marape said.
He said this year’s agendas focused on institutional reform, infrastructure expansion, restoration of air mobility capability, and enhanced defence diplomacy.
