Australia played a significant role in both the Korean War and the Vietnam War as a member of the United Nations (UN) and a key ally of the United States.
Korean War (1950-1953) During the Korean War, Australia sent a total of 17,000 troops to fight alongside the UN forces. The majority of these troops were sent as part of the 3rd Battalion, Royal Australian Regiment (3RAR) which was attached to the United States 27th Infantry Regiment. These troops were mainly involved in combat operations on the front line, and were involved in several key battles, including the Battle of Kapyong and the Battle of Maryang San.
Australia also sent air and naval forces to assist in the war effort. The Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) provided transport and reconnaissance aircraft, while the Royal Australian Navy (RAN) sent ships to provide naval gunfire support and assistance in the evacuation of UN troops.
In addition to the military contributions, Australia also provided economic and logistical support to the UN forces. This included providing supplies, equipment, and medical aid, as well as financial assistance to the UN.
Vietnam War (1955-1975) Australia’s involvement in the Vietnam War was more significant than in the Korean War, with over 60,000 Australian troops serving in Vietnam between 1962 and 1975. These troops were mainly sent as part of the Australian Army Training Team Vietnam (AATTV) and were involved in advising and training the South Vietnamese army, as well as providing security for Australian and New Zealand troops.
The RAAF and RAN also played a significant role in the Vietnam War. The RAAF provided transport and reconnaissance aircraft, while the RAN sent ships to provide naval gunfire support and assistance in the evacuation of UN troops. The RAN also played a key role in the “Operation Sea Dragon” which aimed to interdict North Vietnamese waterway traffic.
Australia also provided economic and logistical support to the South Vietnamese government and the UN forces. This included providing supplies, equipment, and medical aid, as well as financial assistance to the UN.
In conclusion, Australia played a significant role in both the Korean War and the Vietnam War as a member of the UN and a key ally of the United States. Australia contributed troops, air and naval forces, as well as economic and logistical support to the UN forces in both conflicts, showing its commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the region.