NZ Defence Force Exercises In South China Sea

New Zealand Defence Force Te Ope Kaatua O Aotearoa

Friday 10 September, 2004

New Zealand Defence Force Exercises In South China Sea

Defence Forces from New Zealand, Australia, Malaysia, Singapore and the United Kingdom are taking part in a major Five Power Defence Arrangement (FPDA) military exercise in South East Asia from 10 - 24 September.

Exercise Bersama Lima's main objective is for FDPA Defence Forces to conduct operations in a multi-threat scenario. The exercise will also serve to enhance combined joint training activities, build technical knowledge and expertise and further develop mutual understanding between the five members.

The New Zealand Defence Force is contributing: * Navy frigate HMNZS TE KAHA with 174 crew * Navy tanker HMNZS ENDEAVOUR with 49 crew * Eight New Zealand Army Staff Officers * Two Air Force P-3 Orion maritime patrol aircraft and 47 air and ground crew supported by a C-130 Hercules

New Zealand's involvement will add to the total of 30 ships, 50 aircraft and two submarines taking part in Exercise Bersama Lima.

Chief of Defence Force, Air Marshal Bruce Ferguson, in Singapore to attend the 9th Five Power Defence Arrangements (FPDA) Defence Chief's Conference, said he is proud that New Zealand is able to contribute to regional security through the FPDA. "Exercising our forces regularly with the FPDA Defence Forces gives our personnel and equipment the opportunities to practice interoperability in a combined and joint setting, which continues to build our professional standing and enhance our mutual understanding with the members involved," he said.

Exercise Bersama Lima finishes on 24 September. HMNZ Ships TE KAHA and ENDEAVOUR will continue their deployment in the Australian and South East Asian region, undertaking a variety of operational exercises, activities and diplomatic port visits before returning to New Zealand in early December.

ENDS