29 Jul 2026
2 months ago
623 views
The New Zealand Government, led by Defence Minister Chris Penk, is initiating the purchase of long-range one-way strike drones, prioritizing local industry innovation and capability. These human-operated, non-autonomous drones offer a cost-effective alternative to missiles and align with efforts to modernize Defence amid an unpredictable security environment. Additionally, Defence plans to research unarmed long-range drones for maritime surveillance, encouraging domestic businesses to participate, with investments outlined in the Defence Capability Plan totaling $100 million to $300 million.
12 May 2026
5 months ago
959 views
Defence Minister Chris Penk highlighted the vital role New Zealand businesses play in supporting national security by providing essential equipment, services, and infrastructure to the Defence Force. This year’s award recipients contribute to regional growth, innovation, and the Defence Capability Plan’s goals, which include doubling defence spending by 2025. Additionally, the Defence Industry Advisory Council has been revitalized with updated membership and terms to better align with government defence and economic priorities.
26 Nov 2025
11 months ago
1181 views
The New Zealand Government has launched the Defence Estate Portfolio Plan (DEPP), a $2.5 billion long-term initiative to modernise Defence Force infrastructure by 2040, addressing aging facilities and enhancing operational readiness. The plan includes the Future Naval Base Programme and five other key projects focused on upgrading critical infrastructure, housing, and training facilities to support military capability and personnel wellbeing. This investment not only strengthens national security but also creates construction jobs and economic opportunities across the country.
25 Nov 2025
11 months ago
1145 views
Defence Minister Judith Collins inaugurated a $58 million Army maintenance support facility at Burnham Military Camp, enhancing equipment repair capacity and safety, delivered ahead of schedule and under budget. Construction also began on an $82.7 million multi-functional regional supply facility at Burnham, which will serve as a modern logistics hub and provide around 600 jobs during its development. Both facilities are part of the New Zealand Defence Force’s Consolidated Logistics Project, aimed at upgrading logistics infrastructure across Burnham and Linton Military Camps to support operational readiness and personnel.
03 Oct 2025
1 year ago
1367 views
New Zealand's Defence Industry Strategy aims to support local businesses in delivering defence equipment and infrastructure, aligning with the 2025 Defence Capability Plan to double defence spending. The strategy emphasizes building a resilient industry to mitigate global tensions and enhance economic growth through collaboration with Kiwi innovators and major suppliers. Key actions include requiring multinational companies to partner with local businesses, establishing a Technology Accelerator, and creating offshore opportunities for showcasing New Zealand-made innovations to international partners.
23 Sep 2025
1 year ago
1362 views
The largest Defence housing project in decades has begun, providing modern homes for military families and generating job growth in regional communities, as announced by Associate Defence Minister Chris Penk. The initiative aims to replace outdated homes at various NZDF camps and bases with modern two- and three-bedroom houses to support the wellbeing of military families. The Government plans to invest up to $600 million in the Homes for Families program, with construction already underway at several locations and future projects in the pipeline to improve housing for Defence personnel.
21 Aug 2025
1 year ago
1675 views
Seahawk helicopters and Airbus planes are set to replace aging New Zealand Defence Force aircraft as part of the Government’s Defence Capability Plan, with a $2.7 billion investment announced by Defence Minister Judith Collins and Foreign Affairs Minister Winston Peters. The MH-60R Seahawk will replace maritime helicopters, while the Airbus A321XLR will replace the aging 757 fleet, aiming to enhance combat capability and respond to international events. These investments are part of the $12 billion planned commitments outlined in the 2025 DCP, reflecting the Government's response to the deteriorating security environment and the need for reliable aircraft for military operations and humanitarian aid.
14 Aug 2025
1 year ago
1488 views
Minister of Defence Judith Collins inaugurated the new headquarters of the Royal New Zealand Air Force’s No. 5 Squadron at Ohakea, housing four P-8A Poseidon aircraft. The facility, named Te Whare Toroa - The Home of the Albatross, offers modern infrastructure to support maritime surveillance, resource protection, and disaster response efforts. The project aligns with the Government's commitment to enhance Defence capabilities, with planned investments of $12 billion over the next four years and a focus on generating employment opportunities in regional economies.