Australia sends two F-35 fighters to New Zealand

Two Royal Australian Air Force F-35As from No. 3 Squadron made the type's first visit to New Zealand, operating from Ohakea between September 8 and 10. Training included simulated bombing coordinated by New Zealand ground personnel, mock interception of an RNZAF P-8A Poseidon and low-level navigation over the North Island, giving both forces practical experience with fifth-generation aircraft integration. The temporary deployment was an interoperability activity rather than a basing or procurement decision, and it was particularly notable because New Zealand has operated no fast-jet combat fleet since retiring its Skyhawks in 2001.