Australia and New Zealand Air Forces Enhance Interoperability in Exercise Trojan Compass

Joint Exercise Underway at RAAF Base Richmond

Aviators from the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF) and the Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) are currently engaged in Exercise Trojan Compass at RAAF Base Richmond in New South Wales, Australia. The exercise, which has seen a flurry of activity including aircraft movements and medical team operations, aims to strengthen the operational relationship and enhance interoperability between the two nations' air forces.

Focus on Shared Operations and Maintenance

A key objective of Exercise Trojan Compass is to provide a platform for personnel to work side-by-side in realistic situations, thereby enhancing experience and knowledge. RNZAF personnel, including those from 40 Squadron, are collaborating closely with their RAAF counterparts, undertaking duties such as maintaining both RNZAF and RAAF C-130J Hercules aircraft and sharing flightline responsibilities. RAAF Base Richmond is notably a primary hub for the C-130J Hercules medium transport aircraft. This hands-on integration allows both forces to align procedures, share best practices, and build confidence in operating together within complex environments.

Strengthening Trans-Tasman Partnerships

The exercise is a deliberate step forward in reinforcing the strong defense relationship between Australia and New Zealand. Personnel are gaining invaluable exposure to different systems, processes, and cultures, which increases individual experience and strengthens collective competence. As Flight Lieutenant Marvin Ramirez, a 37 Squadron aircraft maintenance officer, stated, 'The fact that we both operate with the same aircraft gives us the perfect opportunity to test whether our workforces are compatible with each other.'

Integrated Medical Training

Beyond aircraft operations, the exercise also features significant medical integration. Leading Aircraftwoman Eloise Old, a medic from RNZAF 40 Squadron, has been attached to the RAAF health element to strengthen trans-Tasman partnerships in patient care. Working alongside RAAF counterparts like Flight Sergeant Sharee Lewis from 2 Expeditionary Health Squadron, medics are comparing their scopes of practice and discussing different approaches to patient treatment. This collaboration is grounded in the understanding that future operations may require seamless integration under real pressure, with a mission to innovate and improve interoperability for any situation.

Conclusion

Exercise Trojan Compass underscores the commitment of the Royal Australian Air Force and the Royal New Zealand Air Force to maintaining a robust and integrated operational capability. By training together across various disciplines, the forces are sharpening their technical and operational skills, ensuring they remain capable and ready to respond collectively when required.