For future intakes, you will join the Army as a Combat Specialist and operate in a range of different environments. You will be introduced to the strategy and skills for combat, before branching into Armoured, Infantry or Gunner towards the end of basic training.

As an Armoured soldier you will train to operate the New Zealand Light Armoured Vehicle. The NZLAV is a highly mobile eight wheeled armoured vehicle fitted with a modern hi-tech fire control system, optics that allow the vehicle to be used by day and night, early warning systems that enhance survivability, and communication equipment to receive and share information.

As part of a tight-knit crew of three, you will operate the NZLAV in a combat role, providing the Army with a light armoured vehicle capability. Your crew tactically manoeuvres the vehicle to directly engage with an enemy, gather information and provide protected mobility to soldiers from other trades across the Army. NZLAV crews can be part of ‘combined arms’ teams - groups of soldiers with the common goal of winning on operations, often in high threat situations.

You will train in the skills required to operate the NZLAV in a wide range of situations, from supporting NZ Police and civil authorities, to peacekeeping and war-fighting. You must be able to operate in the confined space of the vehicle, for extended periods, at all times and in all environmental conditions. You must also be able to quickly process and react to all that you see and hear, under challenging operational conditions.

You will begin as either an NZLAV gunner or driver, eventually being trained to do both. As you complete further training and gain experience you will become a Crew Commander. Throughout your career, you will maintain your skills as a combat soldier.