NZ Army JTACs sharpen combat air integration skills with RAAF F-35s

The training saw two RAAF F-35As deploy across the Tasman Sea, conduct air-to-air refuelling, and then work alongside NZ Army Joint Terminal Attack Controllers (JTACs) in the Waiouru Military Training Area in realistic close air support scenarios. The activity formed part of Exercise Agile Tasman 26, which is an Agile Combat Employment exercise designed to enhance interoperability through integrated air operations and strengthen defence cooperation between New Zealand and Australia.

JTACs play a critical role on the modern battlefield. They are specially trained and certified soldiers authorised to direct and control combat aircraft conducting close air support missions, ensuring air power can be applied accurately and safely in support of troops on the ground. Using advanced communications, navigation and targeting equipment, they provide pilots with situational awareness and control the final phase of an attack.

Wing Commander Mark "Buster" Biele, Commanding Officer of No. 3 Squadron, RAAF, said the exercise demonstrated the enduring strength of the Anzac relationship and the ability of both forces to operate seamlessly together.

“One of the greatest strengths of the Anzac partnership is our ability to integrate seamlessly across air and land domains. Working with NZ Army JTACs allows our F-35A crews to train in realistic close air support scenarios and develop the trust and understanding that are essential in operational environments.”

“JTACs are the critical link between air power and the forces operating on the ground. Exercises like Agile Tasman ensure our pilots and New Zealand JTACs are speaking the same language, using common procedures, and building the confidence needed to deliver precise and effective air support when it matters most.”

“The ability to forward deploy aircraft into the region is only part of the equation. The real value comes from integrating with partners on the ground. Training alongside New Zealand JTACs enables us to refine the tactics, techniques and procedures required to conduct close air support safely, accurately and effectively as a combined force.”

“For our F-35A crews, working with New Zealand JTACs provides an invaluable opportunity to practise the coordination required to bring fifth-generation air power into a land battle. The more we train together, the more capable and interoperable our forces become.”

The training also provided an opportunity for New Zealand JTACs to maintain and develop highly perishable skills while working with one of the world's most advanced fighter aircraft.

Major Damian Jaques, Targeting Manager from 16th Field Regiment, Royal New Zealand Artillery, said NZ Army JTACs received world-class training and benefit significantly from working alongside Australian counterparts.

“Becoming a JTAC requires extensive training and ongoing certification. Our personnel undertake demanding training in New Zealand and internationally, developing expertise across a wide range of aircraft, weapons systems and targeting procedures,” Major Jaques said.

“The quality of our JTAC training is recognised internationally, and our soldiers are highly regarded for their professionalism and ability to integrate with allied forces.

“Working closely with Australia is essential to maintaining and advancing those skills. Opportunities like Agile Tasman allow our JTACs to train against realistic scenarios, gain experience with advanced aircraft such as the F-35A and continue developing the knowledge needed to operate effectively alongside our ally.”

Exercise Agile Tasman 26 highlights the growing interoperability between New Zealand and Australian defence forces and reflects a shared commitment to maintaining operational readiness. By combining advanced air power with highly skilled ground controllers, the exercise ensures both nations remain prepared to respond together to future security challenges and support stability across the Indo-Pacific region.