Scoop has an Ethical Paywall
Work smarter with a Pro licence Learn More

World Video | Defence | Foreign Affairs | Natural Events | Trade | NZ in World News | NZ National News Video | NZ Regional News | Search

 

NZDF To Support Middle East Operations

3 June 2016

NZDF To Support Middle East Operations

The New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) is deploying a Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) C-130H(NZ) Hercules aircraft and up to 40 personnel to support New Zealand and Australian operations in the Middle East over the next six months.

Major General (MAJGEN) Tim Gall, Commander Joint Forces New Zealand, said the aircraft will work as part of an Australian Defence Force (ADF) Joint Task Force to transport freight and personnel primarily to Iraq and Afghanistan from June to December. It will also support coalition operations in the Middle East region.

“Our missions in the Middle East support the international community’s resolve to preserve security and stability in the region, and the upcoming mission will reflect that continuing commitment once again,” MAJGEN Gall said.

“The operation also seeks to improve cooperation and enhance our ability to work alongside Australia and our coalition partners. We work with the ADF, the United States and other partners in Afghanistan, Iraq, and other parts of the world and this deployment marks our latest contribution,” he said.

A detachment of personnel from the RNZAF’s 40 Squadron and the wider NZDF previously deployed to the Middle East last October, where they conducted airlift tasks in support of coalition operations in the region. A number of night vision goggle flights were conducted as part of that month-long mission, including support for Prime Minister John Key’s visit to New Zealand troops in Iraq’s Camp Taji.

ENDS

Advertisement - scroll to continue reading

Are you getting our free newsletter?

Subscribe to Scoop’s 'The Catch Up' our free weekly newsletter sent to your inbox every Monday with stories from across our network.

© Scoop Media

Advertisement - scroll to continue reading
 
 
 
World Headlines

 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

Join Our Free Newsletter

Subscribe to Scoop’s 'The Catch Up' our free weekly newsletter sent to your inbox every Monday with stories from across our network.