Australia, New Zealand strengthen interoperability in Exercise Agile Tasman
New Zealand Defence Force
The Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) and the New Zealand Army trained together in September 2026, strengthening interoperability and enhancing operational integration.
Two RAAF F-35A Lightning II fighter jets deployed across the Tasman Sea, conducting air-to-air refueling and working alongside New Zealand Army Joint Terminal Attack Controllers (JTAC) at the Waiouru Military Training Area in close air support scenarios. The activity was part of Exercise Agile Tasman 26, which integrates air operations and strengthens defense cooperation.
The exercise allowed the RAAF to use its forward arming and refueling point capability overseas for the first time. The capability enables aircraft to refuel and reload closer to operations, returning to action quicker by avoiding a trip to base.
JTACs are critical on the modern battlefield. The specially trained Soldiers direct and control combat aircraft conducting close air support missions, ensuring air power can be applied accurately and safely in support of ground troops. Using advanced communications, navigation and targeting equipment, they provide pilots with situational awareness and control the final phase of an attack.
“One of the greatest strengths of the … partnership is our ability to integrate seamlessly across air and land domains,” RAAF Wing Cmdr. Mark Biele said. “Working with [New Zealand] Army JTACs allows our F-35A crews to train in realistic close air support scenarios and develop the trust and understanding that are essential in operational environments.
“JTACs are the critical link between air power and the forces operating on the ground,” he said. “Exercises like Agile Tasman ensure our pilots and New Zealand JTACs are speaking the same language, using common procedures, and building the confidence needed to deliver precise and effective air support when it matters most.
“The more we train together, the more capable and interoperable our forces become,” Biele said.
The training enables New Zealand personnel to work with one of the world’s most advanced fighter aircraft.
“Working closely with Australia is essential to maintaining and advancing [our] skills,” New Zealand Army Maj. Damian Jaques said. “Opportunities like Agile Tasman allow our JTACs to train against realistic scenarios, gain experience with advanced aircraft such as the F-35A and continue developing the knowledge needed to operate effectively alongside our ally.”
By combining advanced air power with highly skilled ground controllers, Agile Tasman ensures the nations remain prepared to respond together to security challenges and support stability across the Indo-Pacific.
