Monday, 11 February 2008

NZ Defence Force To Participate In Australian Amphibious Exercise

Interoperability and basic amphibious skills will be conducted as the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) combines with the Australian and French Defence Forces to participate in EXERCISE SEA LION this month.

From 18 – 29 February, the multi-purpose vessel HMNZS CANTERBURY will be in the Townsville and inner Great Barrier Reef areas, carrying out amphibious sea training, interoperability activities with embarked landing craft and helicopter operations from the ship’s flight deck.

Maritime Component Commander Commodore Tony Parr says that the opportunity for the crew of the CANTERBURY to work with their Australian and French counterparts will be hugely beneficial.

“Undertaking exercises such as this means that our crew will be able to grow their own skills with practical experience, as well as learning from their peers and our exercise partners.”

HMNZS CANTERBURY will sail for Townsville today, accompanied by HMNZS TE MANA who is heading to Australia for an intensive training period with the Royal Australian Navy.

ENDS

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