Tekapo temperatures test NZ Army and RNZAF at joint training exercise

Around 250 personnel from No. 3 Squadron supported by ground units and the NZ Army’s High Readiness Task Unit (HRTU) were involved in the exercise at the Tekapo Military Training Area. The training was based on a fictional conflict scenario in the Pacific region.

Aviators were tested in the planning and execution of tactical air mobility operations in a high pressure and dynamic environment which included mountain flying, rotors running refuelling, command and control, logistics, and aviation support. 

They were joined by soldiers from Alpha Company, 2nd/1st Battalion, Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment. The soldiers practised combat infiltration, reconnaissance and sniper tasks, and urban live-fire drills.

Lead operations planner, Flight Lieutenant Jamieson Taylor said the biggest benefit of working with the HRTU was the opportunity to complete a full planning cycle together before executing the mission.

“It isn’t something we get to do often as we aren’t located together, so it was hugely beneficial for both sides.”

Flight Lieutenant Taylor said the support from ground trades, including aviation fuel specialists, security forces, logistics, firefighters, intelligence, health services, maintenance, communications, and caterers were critical to the success of the mission.  

“We couldn’t fly without the support from ground trades, therefore it is essential that we practise operating with them in a deployed scenario.”

He said the exercise put the entire team under pressure, but they adapted well to a continuously changing tactical environment.

Exercise Controller Squadron Leader Brad Cottam said that Surface-to-Air Missile (SAM) threats were replicated using a device called the phantom. This portable ground-based device, used for the first time in the squadron’s training, fires a signal several kilometres from the NH90s which replicates an enemy missile targeting system.

The aircraft detects the signal, recognises the missile signature, and automatically activates its self-protection system. A pyrotechnic called the Smokey SAM is then fired to simulate a missile launch, producing a flash and a visible smoke trail. 

The phantom and Smokey SAM are one of many methods that support the New Zealand Defence Force’s ability to prepare for modern combat operations through creating a challenging, realistic and safe training environment, he said.

Alpha Company Commanding Officer, Major Jono Healey said the combined exercise enabled HRTU soldiers to conduct company attacks in a constructed urban environment by day and night. It also provided newer members of the unit with the opportunity to conduct live field firing using night vision equipment for the first time.

“The team worked hard to safely build up for this exercise. We started training for the exercise back in April so this is the culmination of that journey. The soldiers reached a stage where they could work just as comfortably in total darkness as daylight.” 

Live firing was always a highlight in HRTU’s training year as it forced soldiers to switch on and make sure the drills were done right, he said.

“Live field firing and the added complexity of helicopter insertion and snipers was another significant challenge.

“Working with No. 3 Squadron was really beneficial and enabled us to understand each other’s needs and capabilities. This is essential, should we find ourselves working together overseas at short notice.

“Being able to deploy on short notice and trust in your team and the interoperability of other units and services you’re working alongside is critical.”