Defence Minister Hon Phil Goff, with the German Ambassador to New Zealand, His Excellency Mr Jörg Zimmermann, sign a Status of Forces Agreement that will foster training and exercise opportunities between New Zealand and Germany. (WN 08-0035-53tn)
4 November 2008
Today’s signing of a Status of Forces Agreement between New Zealand and Germany marks a significant step in the future relationship between the both nations' defence forces.
The agreement, signed by the Minister of Defence, Hon Phil Goff and German Ambassador to New Zealand, His Excellency Mr Jörg Zimmermann, sets out the conditions for the temporary stay of New Zealand Defence Force personnel in Germany for the purposes of all training, exercises and exchanges.
Chief of Air Force, Air Vice-Marshal Graham Lintott says the agreement is of particular significance for the Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) as it will cover the pilot exchange with Germany set to begin in early 2009.
“RNZAF pilots who will be operating the new NH90 helicopters will be among the first to benefit from this agreement.
“The arrival of the NH90 helicopter into the service will be an exciting milestone for the Air Force and working alongside other NH90 operators, such and Germany, will be of invaluable assistance in terms of training opportunities.”
Initially, the RNZAF intends to send one pilot and one helicopter crewman for a 2 to 2 ½ year exchange to Germany in early 2009 and conversely will support German training programmes in respect of the NH90 in New Zealand.
Background Notes
The NH90 is an advanced medium utility helicopter, and will be used for frontline military and civil operations. It has the capability to support ground operations, counter terrorism, disaster relief, search and rescue and counter-drug operations.
Ten years in development, the NH90 represents current state of the art technology. It will be the cornerstone of the Defence Force capability over the next 30 years.
The total cost of the NH90s is $771 million. More than a third of this cost includes logistics and support, comprising of spare parts, project costs, training, software and equipment, as well as currency hedging.
The RNZAF will introduce eight NH90 helicopters between 2010 and 2011 to replace its Iroquois fleet.
There are currently 855 New Zealand Defence Force personnel are deployed on 14 operations, UN missions and defence exercises around the world.
ENDS
For more information please contact Anna Sussmilch, Defence Public Relations on 04 496 0286 or 021 676 338.