A joint training framework for an amphibious capability in the ADF

The arrival of the new landing helicopter dock (LHD) capabilities in 2014 and 2015 will see an increase in the joint training requirement across the ADF, especially between Army and Navy to create an Australian amphibious capability.1 The development of this capability provides the opportunity for the ADF to create a significant level of joint force operability. This will be somewhat enhanced from the more traditional level of interaction between the three Services, which has involved cooperation but has often fallen short of true joint operability.2 The amphibious capability will be achieved through joint training involving force certification.3 A comprehensive joint training framework has the potential to enable flexible training, assessment and certification across the three Services through joint training design. Currently, the ADF training framework lacks fidelity and does not provide sufficient detail to enable robust training design. This article offers a perspective on what is required of a framework to support training design and ensure that the ADF’s desired level of joint operability is developed effectively and efficiently.