Australia to Supply 3,500 Combat Assault Rifles to Papua New Guinea Defence Force
DEFENSE
The Australian government will supply 3,500 Australian Combat Assault Rifles to the Papua New Guinea Defence Force as part of a $35 million defense aid package. The rifles, manufactured by Thales Australia, aim to enhance the operational readiness of the PNGDF under the new PNG-Australia Mutual Defence Treaty. The weapons will be produced at the Lithgow facility and have been tested by Australian defense forces.

Feb 19, 2026, 11:55 AM