Defence Force to modernise with strike drones

The Government is beginning the process to purchase long-range one-way strike drones, looking particularly toward Kiwi industry for solutions, Defence Minister Chris Penk says.

“We will soon place with industry a request for information and while we will consider all viable options, we are especially interested in supporting local innovation, skills and industrial capability,” Mr Penk says.

“This Government is fixing the basics by addressing historical Defence underinvestment, and that includes modernising our capability.”

The one-way strike drones sought are human-operated, non-autonomous systems that deliver an explosive to a target, without returning to their launch point, providing a lower-cost alternative to missiles.

“We cannot have prosperity without security. As the international security environment becomes increasingly unpredictable, we must ensure the New Zealand Defence Force can operate effectively, including alongside our partners, to deter potential threats and protect New Zealand’s security.

“Defence is increasingly being viewed as a driver that can create skilled jobs, boost economic and regional growth, and through partnership strengthen innovation and high-value industry,” Mr Penk says.

More than 80 per cent of the Defence Force’s $2.6 billion operating budget is already spent within New Zealand, significantly contributing to the economy.

“New Zealand’s industry has expertise across advanced manufacturing, including digital technologies and emerging capabilities such as uncrewed systems.

“There is a growing number of businesses supporting Defence operations, including with firms developing drone and simulation technologies, and this is an opportunity to further locally led innovation.”

Defence also plans to begin market research this week on unarmed long-range uncrewed aircraft systems that can conduct maritime surveillance tasks. New Zealand businesses are strongly encouraged to respond to this request for information.

Notes to editor: These investments were outlined in the Defence Capability Plan, and both have $100 million to $300 million allocated.

Capability requirements will be confirmed through the acquisition process. ...