21 September 2006

Bersama Padu Confirms New Zealand Up To The Mark

Exercise Bersama Padu, the Five Power Defence Arrangement (FPDA) exercise hosted by the Republic of Singapore Navy, concludes on Friday 22 September. For the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) the combined operation, working with FPDA partners has proved extremely successful.

Commander Joint Forces New Zealand, Rear Admiral Jack Steer said the exercise was essential for the NZDF to develop procedures and relationships, ensuring the NZDF can work alongside FPDA partners as required.

“Without joint exercises like Bersama Padu, our defence forces would struggle to work together effectively in a time of need. Bersama Padu gives us exactly the type of training opportunity we need.

“Bersama Padu ensures interaction and facilitates relationship-building through a range of activities, at sea, in the air and at the Headquarters. It reconfirms the ability and professionalism of our Defence Force personnel. We can more than hold our own when operating with much larger defence forces,” he said.

The New Zealand contingent included HMNZ Ships TE KAHA and ENDEAVOUR, one P3-K Maritime Patrol Aircraft and personnel from the Navy, Army and Air Force. The New Zealanders worked alongside 25 ships and 78 aircraft from the Australian, British, Malaysian and Singaporean defence forces.

ENDS

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