NZ Seeks Local Provider for Long-Range Strike Drones

Defence Minister Chris Penk has announced that the New Zealand government is seeking a local provider for new long-range one-way strike drones. These human-operated, non-autonomous systems will deliver an explosive to a target without returning to their launch point, providing a lower-cost alternative to missiles.

The Defence Minister emphasized the importance of supporting local innovation and industrial capability in this procurement process. Over 80% of the Defence Force's $2.6 billion operating budget is already spent within New Zealand, significantly contributing to the economy.

The government plans to begin market research on unarmed long-range uncrewed aircraft systems for maritime surveillance tasks, with an allocated budget of between $100 million and $300 million.