Five Eyes strategic navy talks conclude in Wellington

Representatives from the Australian, Canadian, UK and USA navies were hosted by the Deputy Chief of the Royal New Zealand Navy, Commodore Karl Woodhead.

Established under the Five Eyes Navy Talks Charter signed in 2017, the forum reflects the commitment of the five nations to global peace and security. It also provides a venue to address evolving international security challenges, including increased competition from conventional state actors, unconventional actors and threats from violent extremism.

The strength of the Five Eyes naval partnership lies in unity and shared purpose and Commodore Woodhead used  a Māori proverb to reinforce that ethos when he opened the talks.

“Ehara taku toa i te toa takitahi, engari he toa takitini – My strength is not that of a single warrior, but that of many.”

“Success is never achieved in isolation,” said Commodore  Woodhead. “It is the combined effort, shared wisdom, courage and commitment that enable us all to navigate challenges and achieve our goals.”

A range of topics was  discussed over the course of the talks including an overview of FVEY science and technology, a briefing on maritime warfare and a session exploring future fleet concepts

The annual talks  between  the five navies reinforces cooperation in security, interoperability and operational warfighting, consistent with each nation’s national interests and shared strategic objectives.

“The relationships between us continue to be instrumental in ensuring a secure and stable maritime environment,” said CDRE  Woodhead. “Together, we are working toward a future that serves not only our nations’ interests but also the common interests of allies, partners and all who are committed to peace, prosperity and maritime security.”

At the conclusion of the talks, the naval leaders attended an Armistice Day wreath-laying commemoration at the Pukeahu National War Memorial.