Innovative Kiwi drones will be trialled by the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) to strengthen capability while growing local industry, Defence Minister Judith Collins announced today.
"We're partnering with New Zealand businesses to ensure the Defence Force can protect our people into the future," Ms Collins says.
"NZDF will buy and trial advanced uncrewed systems from New Zealand company Syos Aerospace, enabling access to mission-ready, combat proven technology.
"We're further backing Kiwi businesses by bringing together Sysdoc for training support and Hirtenberger Defence Technology for advanced systems support."
"This will inform future capability decisions on a technology that has rapidly become central to modern military operations.
Delivery of air, land, and sea drones will occur over the coming months, including the SG400 Uncrewed Ground Vehicle, the SM300 Uncrewed Surface Vessel, the SA2 ISR drone and the SA7 one way effector drone.
The Army and Navy will conduct trials in a range of scenarios, such as transporting supplies, performing maritime patrols, and completing route reconnaissance.
"Last year we announced our Defence Industry Strategy, which details how Defence and industry will work together to deliver the Defence Capability Plan while building a strong, resilient industry that delivers economic growth and grows our export markets," Ms Collins says.
"Having cutting-edge drone technology developed and supported by local businesses will reduce supply chain risk and strengthen our resilience - exactly what the strategy is designed for.
"In an increasingly contested world, we're building the future by equipping our Defence Force with innovative Kiwi products to keep our people safe."
