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Aussie F-35s Fly In For NZ Defence Integration
9 Sep
Summary
- Australian F-35A stealth jets are in New Zealand for joint exercises.
- New Zealand and Australia aim for deeper military integration.
- Closer cooperation could address personnel shortages during deployments.
Two Australian F-35A stealth fighter jets are currently in New Zealand, participating in joint exercises with the New Zealand Army and Air Force. These exercises underscore the strengthening defence relationship between the two neighboring nations, with a focus on deeper integration and personnel sharing.
Air Vice-Marshal Darryn Webb highlighted that the military cooperation is evolving beyond traditional interoperability to greater interchangeability. Discussions are underway regarding shared maintenance roles and allowing personnel from either country to operate the other's aircraft. This closer arrangement aims to mitigate personnel shortages during deployments.
The exercises simulate attacks and interceptions, with Australia establishing a Forward Arming and Refuelling Point outside of New Zealand for the first time. This collaboration is expected to bolster the collective ability to conduct maritime surveillance, anti-submarine warfare, search and rescue, and humanitarian assistance operations across the region.
