Army

Press, 9 July 1980, Page 21

Army

The New Zealand truce monitoring force sent to Zimbabwe this year illustrates the flexibility of the operationally-ready forces of the Army. Within seven days of a request from the British Government for a New Zealand force, tire Army had ready for deployment a specially-selected contingent of 74 officers and N.C.O.s.

The organisational structure of tire Army has adapted quickly to the “core force” concept. The operationally-ready, Regular units are the central constituent of the Army “core force" —trained for deployment at short notice for low-intensity operations.

These are supported by a training structure which provides first-line replacements. Behind this is the frame work force consisting of units formed from Regular and Territorial personnel. The units are trained and equipped to give a sound basis for expansion if required. (The organisational structure has the potential to be increased to control 25,900 soldiers. Present levels — Regular and Territorial Force — are less than 13,000. Emphasis is placed on maintaining professionalism. Training with allies in New Zealand and overseas has been significantly increased in recent years.

The quest for professionalism has some side effects, with the load of overseas training and exercising inevitably falling on the same group of Regular soldiers. Constant movement has caused some dissatisfaction and social disruption, both of which could harm morale.

The acquisition of Scorpion tracked reconnaissance vehicles is expected to assist training and extend capabilities. Used by the British Army in Britain and in Germany, the

Scorpion will replace the Army’s ageing M4l, a light-tracked vehicle put into service in New Zealand in 1956.

Although the purchase of 26 Scorpion tanks, at a total cost of 818.4 M has received approval from the Minister of Defence (Mr Gill), final Cabinet approval has yet to come. If approval is given, it is expected that 16 of the light tanks would enter service by 1952, and the rest in 1953.