Defence Minister, Chris Penk, has confirmed the Government is starting the process to purchase long-range one-way strike drones and is looking to Kiwi industry to provide solutions.
The one-way strike drones being 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, said the Minister.
“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.
“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,” he said.
More than 80% 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,” said Mr Penk.
“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 being strongly encouraged to respond to the request for information.
The 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, the Minister said.
