Pacific Air Chiefs Symposium builds international partnerships

The theme for the symposium was “Integrated Air Power: Strengthening Partnerships for a Free and Open Indo-Pacific”. 

Alongside the symposium, Air Vice-Marshal Webb finalised and signed two agreements, notably a Statement of Intent between the Royal New Zealand Air Force and the US Space Force for future collaboration in the space domain.

Air Vice-Marshal Webb says the agreement recognises the strong relationship between the two nations. 

“It will further strengthen collaboration across space-related activities, advancing our shared security interests in the space domain,” he said.  

Air Vice-Marshal Webb also signed a trilateral Letter of Understanding with the Royal Australian Air Force and the US Pacific Air Forces for C-130J Hercules aircraft support, affirming the shared commitment of the three Air Forces in enhancing co-operation, integration, and interchangeability of cross-servicing and logistics support for the C-130J airframe.

He said the C-130 Hercules has been the cornerstone of New Zealand’s global military airlift for more than 60 years.

“The C-130J continues that tradition. Maximising the effectiveness of that capability is therefore vital, and this agreement will enhance our ability to work even more closely with Australia and the United States,” he said.

“Enhanced interoperability - whether that’s operating, supporting, or maintaining aircraft - is ultimately about trust, and this initiative signals a willingness to work as one. This letter will strengthen our collective readiness and resilience, deepen our ability to respond together across the Indo-Pacific, and reinforce our shared commitment to collective security contributions. 

“Having flown C-130 aircraft alongside our partner nations over the years, I can personally attest to the value of working together and the strength that comes from shared experience and trust.” 

Air Vice-Marshal Webb said the agreements demonstrate the value of the enhanced understanding and co-operation that events like the symposium foster and build.

“The symposium has been great. It continues to be a vital opportunity for nations, bringing together over 800 years of air power experience in one place to learn from one another, regardless of an Air Force’s size or disposition.

“Building enduring relationships and finding new opportunities to work together means we are maximising our people and capabilities,” he said.