The Armed Forces in New Caledonia organize the Southern Cross military exercise every two years. The operation involves military personnel from 19 countries. It takes place in the tranquil archipelago of Wallis and Futuna.
The scenario for these military maneuvers is to provide assistance to the population of Wallis and Futuna, victims of a natural disaster. This is all the more difficult as this French archipelago is isolated in the Pacific. The idea is also to develop cooperation between the armed forces of other countries. 18 nations are taking part in the operation: Australia, Belgium, Chile, Colombia, Germany, Fiji, Indonesia, Netherlands, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, Peru, Philippines, Singapore, Tonga, United Kingdom, United States and Vanuatu. Ecuador, Japan, Malaysia, Nauru and Thailand will attend the exercise as observer countries.
Paratroopers, recruitment and maintenance work
Two French naval vessels, the D’Entrecasteaux and the Bougainville, are docked in Matu’Utu. Wallisians and Futunians had the unusual pleasure of seeing dozens of parachutists jump from an army aircraft (a Casa) at 13,000 feet. The army will use the opportunity to recruit young people interested in military life. The military will also take the opportunity to maintain the runway at the Tongan fort in Wallis. Work will also be carried out on the Poï Basilica in Futuna.
The Southern Cross exercise will end on May 4, 2025.
