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Landmark exercise with German Air Force delivers benefits for New Zealand

New Zealand Defence Force

Exercise Tūhono Rangi, a landmark joint training operation with the German Air Force (GAF), has wrapped up for the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF), marking a significant step in strengthening interoperability and international defence cooperation.

27 November, 2025

Over the past two weeks, Operations Squadron Combat Support Services personnel from the Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF), New Zealand Army, and German Air Force have worked side-by-side at multiple locations, including Air Force Bases Woodbourne, Ohakea, and Auckland, and the Waiouru Military Training Area.

The exercise involved low-level tactical flying, parachuting, air drops and the integration of combat support, security forces, and logistics specialists from both nations.

Air Component Commander Air Commodore Andy Scott said the exercise was a milestone for the NZDF.

"Tūhono Rangi provided a rare opportunity to train alongside a key NATO partner. It enhances our ability to operate together in coalition operations and other complex environments, such as humanitarian relief."

The Commanding Officer of Operations Squadron, Squadron Leader Matt Williams, said the visit had enabled several key trades to achieve a long list of training objectives.

"There have been many highlights. For example, we re-established the Deployable Bulk Fuel Installation and requalified the Fuel Specialist trade. Those teams delivered a massive amount of fuel in support of the GAF flying programme - over 600,000 litres. We now have a significant support capability ready to deploy on our operations and to support those of partners.

"Our air load, rescue firefighters and security forces teams also all reached important milestones in operational readiness," he said.

German Air Force contingent commander Colonel Markus Knoll highlighted the significance of the deployment.

"This exercise demonstrates our shared commitment to security and cooperation. Training in New Zealand's challenging terrain and airspace has been invaluable for our crews."

The deployment included three A400M Atlas aircraft, an Airbus A330 and an Airbus A321, making this the largest German Air Force presence in New Zealand to date.

The exercise showcased the ability of both nations to rapidly integrate and respond to global contingencies.

Exercise Tūhono Rangi, meaning Connecting Skies, reflects the enduring partnership between New Zealand and Germany and underscores the importance of collaboration in maintaining regional and global stability.