Pacific Partnership 2011 is an annual Humanitarian

Pacific Partnership 2011 is an annual Humanitarian Civic Assistance program sponsored by the Commander U.S. Pacific Fleet. The deployment aims to strengthen alliances and promote multilateral security cooperation. Commander of the Australian Contingent, Commander Ashley Papp, RAN, says PP11 aims to develop the ability of the Australian Defence Force to operate in close cooperation with its military colleagues from the U.S., New Zealand and other military and non-military participants, and to improve the way of life for Australia’s Pacific neighbours. PP11 will deliver engineering and medical aid to Vanuatu, Tonga, Papua New Guinea, East Timor and the Federated States of Micronesia from aboard USS Cleveland. The ADF contribution to the mission will include approximately 50 members in two phases, comprising engineering, medical and veterinary personnel. A deployable Geospatial Team will also embark for survey tasks. HMA Ships Betano and Balikpapan will provide vital ship to shore support.