A former elite soldier who gave evidence in war veteran Ben Roberts-Smith's defamation trial has been charged with obstructing and harming war crimes investigators.
A non-publication order was placed on the man's identity when the matter was heard in Central Local Court on Wednesday afternoon.
A magistrate ordered that he be referred to as Person X to protect the integrity of the Federal Court proceedings, the safety of the defendant and national security interests.
He is charged with obstructing, hindering and intimidating a Commonwealth official and harming a Commonwealth law officer.
Person X appeared via videolink, wearing a dark suit and a white shirt, and showed no emotion during the short hearing.
His application for bail was not opposed by the prosecution and was granted.
His lawyer Rob Rankin made no comment to waiting media as he left court.
Person X will face court again in June.
The former soldier was one of several ex-Special Air Service Regiment (SAS) members to be called to give evidence in Mr Roberts-Smith defamation trial.
Mr Roberts-Smith is suing The Sydney Morning Herald, The Age and The Canberra Times for defamation in the Federal Court, claiming articles in the publications falsely accused him of unlawful killings, bullying and domestic violence.
The newspapers are pleading a defence of truth.
