ENHANCED COMMAND AND CONTROL ARRANGEMENTS IN THE MIDDLE EAST

The Australian Government today announced that it has approved enhanced Command and Control arrangements for Australian forces deployed to the Middle East.

In recognition of the recent decision to deploy more forces to Afghanistan, the Government has approved the appointment of a two-star National Commander for Australian operations in the Middle East.

I would like to congratulate Major General Mark Evans on his appointment to this significant position which will better represent Australian national interests and further strengthen our strategic relationships throughout the region.

The National Commander will be ably supported in this critical task through two Deputy Commanders who will continue to focus on our operations in Iraq and Afghanistan.

The Deputy Commander of Australian forces in Iraq is Brigadier Gerard Fogarty and Brigadier Jim Simpson will be the Deputy Commander of Australian forces in Afghanistan.  These two positions will enable a wider, more balanced and flexible approach to command and control for ADF operations throughout the Middle East.

There will be no change to the overall mission or activities of ADF forces in the Middle East.

These operations remain dangerous and our personnel are focused on contributing to multi-national efforts to secure a better future for the people of Iraq and Afghanistan.

For a free subscription to Defence Direct, the Minister for Defence's monthly e-newsletter, please follow this link:

http://www.minister.defence.gov.au/defencedirect/spt/subscribe.html