Black Hawk helicopters doing high-speed runs over rooftops have been keeping residents awake in Melbourne’s west.
The Australian Defence Force is this month conducting urban counter-terrorism training, including night flights without lights.
While past training has stopped at 11.30pm, low-flying choppers were heard over Altona and surrounds around 4.30am on Friday morning.
In a statement, the ADF said the training tested the skills of army personnel in responding to simulated terrorist scenarios around critical infrastructure in built-up areas.
“Residents may see or hear military Black Hawk helicopters, vehicles and soldiers carrying weapons and tactical equipment during the exercise,” it said.
“At times, the training will also involve the use of blank ammunition and other pyrotechnics.
“The ADF will seek to minimise noise disturbances by alternating the choice of flight paths and activity locations wherever possible.”
It said the training ensured the ADF maintained the highest level of capability to protect Australia’s national interests.
