NZDF to deploy to the UK in further support for Ukraine

The deployment, announced by the Government today, extends until 30 November and will see an infantry training contingent, drawn from the New Zealand Army, split into two teams to train approximately 800 Ukrainian Armed Forces personnel.  

Chief of Defence Air Marshal Kevin Short said the Cabinet decision follows an invitation from the UK Armed Forces for the NZDF to contribute to the infantry training programme. 

“I am very pleased that this deployment has been approved, particularly for the Army, as it provides an opportunity for some of our people to contribute further in a very meaningful way as we respond to a request from a close partner,” Air Marshal Short said.  

“Our contribution through earlier efforts have already helped and this decision continues our aid to Ukraine as it defends itself against Russia’s unjustified and illegal invasion.

“The deployment is a good indication of the high regard our partners have for our professionalism as a military force,” he said.

The contingent will travel via civilian flights to the UK in tranches and will begin their work to equip Ukrainian recruits with the core skills to be effective in frontline combat.

The training is based on the UK’s basic soldier course which includes weapon handling, combat first aid, operational law and other soldier skills.

No NZDF personnel will enter Ukraine during the deployment which will be based at locations in the UK.

To read the media release from the Government on this decision, click here (beehive.govt.nz).