New Zealand Defence Force Enhances Combat Readiness with Exercises

New Zealand’s Defence Force has recently intensified its military training activities, conducting a series of exercises aimed at enhancing its combat capabilities. These exercises range from anti-submarine warfare in the South China Sea to joint drills with international forces, including Australia, the United Kingdom, Malaysia, and Singapore.

The Defence Force’s increased focus on combat readiness aligns with growing concerns among officials in Wellington regarding strategic competition in the Asia-Pacific region. According to Professor David Capie, director of the Centre for Strategic Studies at Victoria University, there is a clear effort to bolster military preparedness. “It’s fair to say that there has been a clear effort to step up,” he stated.

Defence Minister Judith Collins has emphasized the importance of reinforcing the military’s role. “We’re back in the game … Defence Force is actually about defence. It’s not about hug and cuddles. It’s actually, get on do the job,” Collins asserted during a recent address.

One significant operation involved the navy tanker HMNZS Aotearoa, which participated in an exercise in the contested South China Sea alongside the Philippines, United States, and Australia. This operation, monitored by China’s People’s Liberation Army, aimed at conducting anti-submarine warfare. Aotearoa’s commanding officer, Robert Welford, noted the importance of collaboration in the region.

“This part of the world is extremely important to New Zealand. We’ve got our friends in this part of the world, and we’re going to operate with them,” Welford said, emphasizing the need for partnerships in the face of regional tensions. Collins added that the exercises are conducted in accordance with United Nations laws of the sea.

Joint Operations and Training Exercises

The Defence Force has also announced plans for the HMNZS Aotearoa to conduct official visits to the Philippines and Vietnam while en route to assist with monitoring United Nations sanctions on North Korea. Additionally, an Air Force P-8A Poseidon aircraft is set to participate in a Japanese-led annual exercise in the Philippine Sea, collaborating with the United States, Australia, Canada, and France.

On the ground, New Zealand soldiers have engaged in training exercises that simulate combat scenarios. Recently, members of the 16th Field Regiment coordinated attacks using private fighter jets supplied by the Tauranga-based company Fighter Jets NZ. This training involved simulated assaults on a fictional island under occupation, utilizing Czech-made Albatros training jets.

Throughout October, the army and air force conducted “Exercise Cassino,” simulating deployments to fictional locations during times of unrest. This included operations such as seizing drone facilities and capturing militia leaders.

International Collaboration and Future Exercises

The Defence Force’s commitment to international collaboration is further demonstrated by the arrival of five German Air Force aircraft at the Woodbourne base in Blenheim for two weeks of joint exercises. These operations will involve coordination with New Zealand’s air force personnel in various support roles.

In addition, commanders from Australia, the UK, Malaysia, and Singapore participated in “Exercise Suman Warrior,” a nearly two-week command post exercise designed to address complex conflict scenarios. Capie highlighted the increasing emphasis on combat readiness, noting that the Defence Force is adapting to a more dangerous global environment.

While many recent training activities have focused on combat, not all operations are military in nature. On a lighter note, the Defence Force issued a press statement regarding a navy musician deployed to Antarctica. Concerned about the harsh conditions damaging her French horn, Natalie Paine was provided with a plastic instrument designed for children.

As New Zealand’s Defence Force continues to enhance its capabilities and engage with international partners, the focus remains on maintaining peace and security in an increasingly complex global landscape.