NZ Army instructors look forward to passing on knowledge and building connections in Timor-Leste

Eight New Zealand Army instructors have deployed to Timor-Leste where they will help build foundational soldier skills in an all-female Timor-Leste Defence Force (F-FDTL) platoon group.

30 July, 2026

The New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) was invited by the F-FDTL to contribute eight personnel to help deliver training at Baucau Military Base.

The training course has been developed with Australia’s in-country Defence Cooperation Program (DCP) and will be delivered by instructors from the F-FDTL, Australia’s DCP and the NZDF.

Land Component Commander, Brigadier Jason Dyhrberg, says the invitation to provide NZ Army instructors was a great opportunity for the NZDF to maintain the strong connection that it has with Timor-Leste, and to help F-FDTL soldiers enhance their warfighting skills.

The eight personnel are all current instructors in New Zealand.

Four soldiers stand together, each wearing camouflage uniform and hats, in front of a field and trees in the background.

The team of NZ Army personnel trained together in Waiouru Military Camp before deploying to Timor-Leste to instruct soldiering skills to an all-female platoon group of F-FDTL soldiers

Three soldiers kneel while assessing part of a weapon. The soldiers are in full uniform with large belts on and helmets.

Two soldiers look inside the barrel of a weapon.

Senior contingent representative, Sergeant Tinelle Walker, says they are looking forward to sharing their knowledge and experience.

“Our main goal is to train and develop the individual foundation warfighting skills required of a section member within a platoon operating environment which will strengthen F-FDTL capability,” Sergeant Walker said.

This will include instructing the F-FDTL soldiers in weapon handling, section battle drills, radio telephone procedures, navigation, and other essential soldiering skills.

“The deployment provides an opportunity to work alongside partner nations, share knowledge, and further strengthen the relationship between New Zealand, Australia and Timor-Leste."

As none of the New Zealand team members have previously deployed to Timor-Leste, they were looking forward to representing the NZDF to a high standard, demonstrating the professionalism and values of the NZDF while also taking the opportunity to learn more about the country’s culture, traditions, and customs.