Support to Ukraine
20 May 2024
Operation Tīeke
We have deployed specialist teams to the United Kingdom as part of an international effort to help Ukraine defend itself against Russia’s illegal war.
An artillery training team trained Armed Forces of Ukraine (AFU) personnel in operating the L119 light field gun.
Since then, our infantry training teams have taught AFU recruits core skills for frontline combat, covering combat first aid, operational law, weapon handling, field-craft, offensive and defence operations, and marksmanship. They teach trainees how to operate different weapons systems, in different situations including urban and field environments.
The NZDF has provided other assistance in the UK and Europe to support Ukraine’s self-defence against Russia, including intelligence analysts, logistics support, and an aircraft and personnel to transport donated military aid such as vital medical supplies. Personnel deployed on Operation Tīeke do not enter Ukraine.
The New Zealand Defence Force is currently mandated to deploy up to 95 personnel.