The Australian Government "reconstructed" Nadzab to take Mirages, including the taxiways. It indeed was there to provide a defense base if required.
Air Niugini was "forced" to use Nadzab as Tailwheel indicated. ATC moved out there in 1979 from memory and GA continued to use Lae until it's closure.
Made for some interesting departures and arrivals in Lae without the tower being there! Sometimes lighting - or the lack thereof made for some interesting darktime movements
