Australian Army skills at Arms Meet 2018

Some of the best combat marksmen of the Navy, Army and Airforce were on display at  the 2018 Australian Army Skills at Arms Meet (AASAM) hosted by the Combined Arms Training Centre at Bridges Barracks, Puckapunyal, Victoria.

Minister for Defence Personnel Darren Chester who attended the event said he was impressed by the competition which involves demonstrations of combat marksmanship and tactical drills from more than 20 different nations.

“Today I had the privilege to observe an impressive demonstration of Army expertise in a challenging, rigorous and hard fought competition, and witness some of the best combat marksmen in the world,” Mr Chester said.

“Puckapunyal provides an outstanding facility and the event helps to improve our defence force capability and international relationships.

“This event is an exceptional demonstration of combat shooting techniques, understanding of weapon training and small arms practices.

“This year’s AASAM has built on 2017 range practices, focussing on combat shooting in a contemporary operational environment, including night shooting.”

During the visit, Mr Chester toured the AASAM ranges and met with competitors from both Australia and abroad.

“The international competitors from many armies across the world make an invaluable contribution to the standard of competition and professionalism of AASAM,” Mr Chester said.

“AASAM provides armies the opportunity to build new friendships among some of the finest military marksmen around the world.”