Australian PC-21 aircraft deploying to New Zealand for Exercise Raven Kahu.

The Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) will deploy aircraft and personnel to New Zealand for Exercise RAVEN KAHU which will occur from 8 to 19 August 2022.

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PC-21 aircraft from No. 4 Squadron conduct formation flying in the airspace near RAAF Base Williatown, New South Wales (Picture source: RAAF)

Exercise RAVEN KAHU is a combined training exercise involving RAAF and Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) aircraft and personnel. This exercise focuses on enhancing New Zealand’s Joint Terminal Attack Control (JTAC) and Forward Air Control (Airborne) capabilities.

Commanding Officer of No. 4 Squadron, Wing Commander Sean Jobson, said the exercise will provide a valuable opportunity to integrate with Australia’s closest partner nation.

“A detachment from No. 4 Squadron will be deploying to RNZAF Base Ohakea for the exercise,” Wing Commander Jobson said.

“No 4. Squadron will conduct Close Air Support training for the New Zealand Defence Force JTACs, supported by up to four RAAF PC-21 aircraft and two JTAC instructors.

“Deployments are a regular part of ADF operations, but training with our New Zealand partners demonstrates the longstanding relationship and ability to operate together as a joint force.”

The PC-21 aircraft from No. 4 Squadron are normally based at RAAF Base Williamtown, New South Wales. The aircraft provide a Forward Air Control (Airborne) training capability and ADF JTAC training support.

International deployments are an essential element of operational preparedness, currency and proficiency objectives. This is the first time the RAAF has deployed the PC-21s for an international activity.