Black Hawk helicopters are doing high-speed runs over rooftops in Melbourne’s west as part of the army’s urban counter-terrorism training.
The Australian Defence Force will conduct excercises during May, including night flights without lights and firing blank ammunition.
A Defence spokeswoman said the training would test the skill of army personnel in responding to simulated terrorist scenarios around critical infrastructure.
“Residents may see or hear Black Hawk helicopters, military vehicles and soldiers carrying weapons and tactical equipment during the conduct of the exercise,” she said.
“Some of the training involves low-flying helicopters, which can generate some unavoidable noise.
“Certain parts of the training will also involve the use of blank ammunition and other pyrotechnics.
“This exercise is part of the regular training program and residents should not be concerned if they hear or see these activities occurring.”
Local police are involved in the exercises, which aim to provide realistic training in built‐up areas in the event of a civil emergency.
It is understood helicopters will operate out of the Point Cook RAAF but training specifics aren’t publicised to protect operational tactics, techniques and procedures.
Flight routes and activity locations are chosen to minimise noise disturbances, the spokeswoman said.
“The ADF thanks the public for their patience and cooperation while this essential training is being conducted,” she said.
“The training poses no threat or danger to the public.”
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