Australian Defence Force Training

Australian and United States military personnel will conduct training as part of Exercise Talisman Sabre in the Darwin port area from mid-to-late July 2025.

Exercise Talisman Sabre is Australia’s largest bilateral exercise with the US and it officially commenced with the opening ceremony in Sydney on Sunday, 13 July 2025. This essential training is vital to maintain Australia’s world-class military capability. 

Exercise Talisman Sabre training activities will be conducted during the day and night. You may hear and see watercraft, military vehicles, helicopters and unmanned aerial systems, as well as military personnel carrying weapons and using blank ammunition. 

You should not be alarmed if you hear or see any of the above.

The Australian Defence Force is working closely with the Northern Territory Government, City of Darwin Council, Northern Territory Police Force, media outlets and other emergency services to keep you informed about what is occurring.



Should residents become concerned about any activity observed during this training exercise, they may contact the Defence Joint Operations Support Services – Northern Territory team via email at joss.nt@defence.gov.au.