NZDF PARTICIPATES IN EXERCISE FREEDOM SHIELD 23-1

New Zealand Defence Force personnel took part in Exercise Freedom Shield 23-1, a readiness exercise to respond to crisis situations on the Korean Peninsula and enhance regional security.

The exercise was a simulated wargame led by the United States Forces Korea (USFK) and Republic of Korea (ROK). The United Nations Command (UNC) HQ is supported by the United Nations Sending States (UNSS) nations who provide additional personnel to the UNC HQ. Seven personnel from across the three services participated to cover various roles augmenting the HQ UNC.

The UNSS exercise participants had the opportunity to visit the Joint Security Area which involved a tour of the Demilitarized Zone (DMZ) on the border between North and South Korea.

NZDF Senior National Representative, Colonel Paul Curry said it was a privilege to participate on this exercise.

“We have a long standing and valued relationship with the UNC and we enjoy and benefit from opportunities like this one to train with the UNC HQ alongside the UNSS. This exercise provides essential development for our people to gain knowledge and skills within the UNC setting and to build strong professional and personal relationships with our UNC military whānau.”

This iteration of Ex Freedom Shield introduced new scenarios which centred on defensive operations. There was a significant emphasis on Information Operations and learning opportunities linked to current conflicts. The exercise scenario spanned conventional operations to non-conventional and Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief. This allowed HQ UNC to develop procedures and functions that had not previously been exercised, such as medical evacuations and input from national command elements.

Exercise Freedom Shield achieved the outcome of increasing readiness of the UNC Alliance in response to a potential crisis on the Korean Peninsula, whilst enhancing interoperability and strengthening professional relationships with the contributing nations. Particular highlights were the visit to the DMZ, working alongside so many different contributing nations and experiencing the Korean culture and cuisine.