Two Australian F-35A stealth fighter jets will take to the skies over New Zealand for the first time next week to take part in joint military exercises.
The Royal Australian Air Force jets would be hosted at RNZAF Base Ohakea as part of training with the New Zealand Army and Royal New Zealand Air Force.
Air Force chief Air Vice-Marshal Darryn Webb said the visit would give the New Zealand Defence Force an opportunity to work alongside "some of the most advanced warfighting technology in the world".
“The exercises include the RAAF establishing an overseas Forward Arming and Refuelling Point for the first time outside Australia," he said.
On Tuesday, the two F-35's would practise jet attacks in the Waiouru Military Training Area, coordinated by New Zealand Army teams on the ground.
The jets would then take part in rehearsed interceptions involving RNZAF P-8A Poseidon aircraft, before returning to Australia on Thursday.
Webb said the exercise reflected efforts between the two countries' air forces to strengthen their ability to operate together.
"One of the key objectives we have set in working together is to enhance our operational readiness by conducting combined exercises which develop shared combat capability.
"This exercise is an important step forward on that path."
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