Media release
9 November 2012
Exercise Pae Tata Tests NZ Defence Force’s Developing Amphibious Capability
The LCM-8 lands on the beach at Army bay and the Enhanced Infantry Company storm the beach, led by Private Tukaki
Navy, Army and Air Force have converged on various Auckland locations this week as part of Exercise Pae Tata.
The exercise which aims to develop the Defence Force’s integrated amphibious capability, involves maritime, land, and
air assets working together to secure a point of entry, executing a beach landing.
HMNZS MANAWANUI, HMNZS TAUPO, a headquarters element and Enhanced Infantry Company (EIC) from 1 RNZIR, a Special Forces
Task Element, a RNZN Operational Diving Team Detachment, and a RNZAF P3K and C130 detachment are taking part in the
exercise, from 5-16 November.
HMAS TOBRUK, a Royal Australian Navy Landing Ship Heavy, is also playing a role in the exercise, further developing
ANZAC interoperability.
Exercise Pae Tata 2012 is an opportunity to develop the Defence Force’s emerging Joint Amphibious Task Force capability,
building on from our experiences earlier this year on Exercise Alam Halfa and RIMPAC, says Commander Joint Forces New
Zealand, Major General Dave Gawn.
“The Joint Amphibious Task Force will allow the NZ Defence Force to effectively respond to any contingencies in the
South Pacific, working alongside our Pacific neighbours.
“Interoperability is a crucial part of the Joint Amphibious Task Force capability, where the Defence Force will be able
to integrate with and operate alongside our partners in the South Pacific or further a-field.”
As part of Exercise Pae Tata 2012, amphibious trainers from the UK will also deliver an amphibious warfare training
package.
Exercise Pae Tata is a precursor to Exercise Southern Katipo 2013, a major amphibious exercise which will be based in
New Zealand and involve a range of international participants.
ENDS