The largest maritime exercise

RIMPAC gives the NZDF an unparalleled opportunity to put our assets and personnel to the test alongside some of the best in the world. Mutual, large-scale military exercises foster familiarity, trust, interoperability and collective strength among Pacific nations. It also means that the navies and air forces of friendly nations get used to working together. Live-firing of guns, torpedoes and missiles are carried out in a controlled environment, providing valuable insight into our capability. Our crews are pitted against adversary aircraft and ships, and witness large-scale amphibious operations.

rimpac 2018

The 26th edition of the exercise sees New Zealand serve as Sea Combat Commander for the first time. RNZN Captain Blair Gerritsen is responsible for commanding the at-sea defence of the Expeditionary Strike Group, employing escort ships and their helicopters plus shore-based aircraft.

26 nations, 47 surface ships, five submarines, 18 national land forces, and more than 200 aircraft and 25,000 personnel participate. NZDF's contingent includes a warship, three aircraft and more than 300 personnel.  

For the first time in the history of RIMPAC, a Royal New Zealand Navy ship is crowned the winner of the prestigious Naval Surface Fire Support Rodeo competition. HMNZS Te Mana lands her shells closer to the target than any other ship – from over 6km away.