‘Increasingly Complex’ Threats Facing Pacific Nations: NZ Defence Ministry

The Defence Ministry warns international rules-based system is increasingly being ignored by some states, leading to a higher threat level for the Pacific.

Mortar Firing during Ex Cartwheel in Fiji. The tactical field training exercise, Exercise CARTWHEEL, was a US and Fiji-led multinational exercise conducted in the Nausori Highlands in Fiji. The exercise involved defence personnel from the Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF), United States Army Pacific (USARPAC), British Army and Australian Defence Force (ADF). 55 combat soldiers from 1st (NZ) Brigade in Linton and Burnham participated in the Exercise to enhance capability in both urban and jungle environments. Training also included demonstrations of sustained fire machine guns, section attacks and ambushes, reacting to enemy indirect firing and ethical decision-making scenarios. A light infantry Platoon from Delta Company, 2/1 RNZIR also conducted reconnaissance operations, section and platoon harbours drills, survival and tracking training.

New Zealand’s Ministry of Defence has warned in its latest Statement of Intent that the country faces “increasing and compounding” threats to its national security.

In a blunt assessment of the current situation, the Ministry has warned of “increasingly complex and challenging threats to its security.