THE Aviation Combat Element of the 2018 Marine Rotational Force – Darwin has arrived in the Northern Territory as part of the seventh and largest rotation to date.

This year’s Aviation Combat Element comprises eight MV-22 Osprey tilt-rotor aircraft.

Deputy Commander Northern Command, Captain Bryan Parker, RAN, said the increase in Ospreys gave Australian and US forces the ability to conduct more complex and sophisticated training activities and exercises.

“During this year’s six month rotation, MRF-D and its Aviation Combat Element will develop an enhanced amphibious capability with the Australian Defence Force,” Captain Parker said.

The eight MV-22 Osprey tiltrotor aircraft are from Marine Medium Tiltrotor Squadron 268 (VMM-268), based at Marine Corps Air Station Kaneohe Bay in Hawaii.

The MV-22 Ospreys arrived at the Port of Darwin on a US cargo vessel.