RAA Liaison Letter – 2025 / 2026 Edition 67 Aviation Integration: Air Mobility and Ammunition Drops A highlight for many during Ex BENZCAT 25 was the level of aviation integration, including aerial movement of guns (AMO) and airdropped ammunition resupply via C-130 Hercules aircraft. Remarkably, for some Australian Gunners, this was their first time witnessing or participating in an air mobility insertion of artillery. The process allowed them to observe how New Zealand employs airlift to rapidly reposition guns, a capability that expands tactical options for commanders and underscores the importance of flexibility within artillery operations. Likewise, the ammunition supply drop conducted by the C-130 provided a valuable demonstration of how a gun battery can be sustainably supported in remote or high-threat environments. Watching pallets of 105mm ammunition descend beneath parachute into a drop zone was a memorable moment for the Australians and highlighted the impressive coordination between New Zealand’s artillery and air force elements. These aviation components served as excellent professional development opportunities and reinforced the importance of joint and coalition integration in modern operations. Experiencing New Zealand’s Infamous Weather No New Zealand field exercise would be complete without its trademark weather, and Ex BENCAT 25 delivered exactly that. Across both Waiouru and Pohokura, Australian soldiers were treated to the full Kiwi experience: freezing temperatures, persistent rain, biting wind, and thick fog that made even short movements feel like crossing mountain ranges. For the Gunline and CP teams in Waiouru, the harsh weather added a realistic layer of complexity to their tasks. Working in cold and wet conditions demanded extra attention to safety, stores, and equipment care, reinforcing the importance of discipline on the Gunline and the need for robust drills. Many Australians commented that the environmental challenge while tough, ultimately strengthened their resilience and appreciation for the conditions routinely faced by the New Zealand Army. For some it was the coldest training environment they had ever experienced. The view of Mount Ruapehu from the CP area in Waiouru during Ex Bencat 25 JFT Experience in Pohokura: Rugged Terrain, Teamwork, and Resilience While the Gunline focused on live-fire integration in Waiouru, 1 Regt’s two Joint Fires Team members were initially tasked to train alongside their New Zealand counterparts in Pohokura Native Beech Forest; a stunning but unforgiving conservation area characterised by steep slopes, dense bush, and extremely difficult terrain. Operating in Pohokura pushed the JFT parties physically and mentally as they navigated thick vegetation, rugged hills, changing weather and long movements under load. For the Australians, the experience became a valuable lesson in resilience, team cohesion, and the importance of staying adaptable in unfamiliar environments. Working closely with NZ soldiers in such challenging terrain reinforced the importance of teamwork, communication, and leadership under fatigue, core qualities for any JFT regardless of mission set. The Pohokura phase also strengthened personal connections between the Australians and New Zealanders. Long movements, shared hardship, and tough nights in the bush created a sense of camaraderie that will undoubtedly benefit future cooperation between 1 Regt and 16 Fd Regt. Strengthening Bonds and Looking Ahead Exercise Bencat 25 was more than just a training activity. It was a chance for two proud artillery regiments, to rekindle close cooperation, develop tactical understanding and continue the ANZAC artillery legacy that stretches back generations. From traversing the hills of Pohokura and enduring the cold winds of Waiouru, to working shoulder-to-shoulder on the Gunline and CP, 1 Regt soldiers gained valuable experience, strengthened resilience,
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