It’s not an invasion or anything sinister but a joint Terminal Attack Controller (JTAC) training being undertaken in Bulahdelah and surrounding areas by the Australian Defence Force (ADF).

The troops will converge of the town from February 26 to March 15.

JTAC training is aimed at graduating selected ADF members in planning, briefing, controlling and reporting of close air support on the battlefield. 

All training activities will be carried out during daylight hours.

Members of the public can expect a small presence of military vehicles in Bulahdelah and ADF members in uniform.

PC-9 aircraft and Hawk 127 Lead-In Fighter aircraft will conduct medium to close air support down to 45m (150ft).  

F/A-18A/B Hornet aircraft will also provide support to the training but will operate at high altitudes, approximately 4572m (15000ft).

Commander Air Combat Group, Air Commodore Michael Kitcher, said JTAC training was important as it provided eyes on the ground for aircrew during operations.

“In the urban battlespace we face on operations today, the role of JTACs is crucial to ensuring the precision application of air power; delivering maximum effect with minimal impact on civilians and civilian infrastructure,” Air Commodore Kitcher said.

“These efforts are vital to achieving overall mission success.”

Air Force is committed to ensuring every effort is made to minimise any inconvenience to residents living in these areas. 

The ongoing support of the Bulahdelah community is appreciated.