New Zealand frigate HMNZS Te Kaha joins UK carrier strike group

The Royal New Zealand Navy frigate HMNZS Te Kaha has joined a carrier strike group led by the UK Royal Navy in the Indian Ocean. The frigate linked up with the multi-nation group last week for a deployment designated Operation Highmast.

The strike group, which will eventually involve thirteen nations and more than 4,500 military personnel, formed in the English Channel in late April and will conduct exercises and port visits throughout Asia and the western Pacific.

Participating nations include NATO allies and partners such as Australia, India, Japan, and the United States.

HMNZS Te Kaha recently completed a two-month maritime security deployment with the combined task force 150 (CTF 150). Commodore Shane Arndell, the Royal New Zealand Navy’s Maritime Component Commander, stated that joining the strike group will allow the frigate to, "increase its combat readiness by testing its capabilities in a large multi-nation operation."

"It's fantastic to have our New Zealand friends with us as we look to develop our combined operational capabilities,” said Commodore James Blackmore, Commander of the UK Carrier Strike Group.