12 May 2015

NZ troops on ground in Iraq

11:38 am on 12 May 2015

The New Zealand Defence Force training mission contingent is in place at Taji Military Complex in Iraq.

Chief of Defence Force Lieutenant General Tim Keating confirmed the team was on the ground and preparing to train Iraqi Security Forces.

That training would include basic weapons, operation planning, medical and logistics support to operations.

The Building Partner Capacity mission is a non-combat mission for a two-year period, with a review to be conducted after nine months.

As well as a main body contingent in Taji, which includes soldiers for force protection, the New Zealand army has several officers in other locations in Iraq.

Get the RNZ app

for ad-free news and current affairs