Ice patrol, littoral support for NZDF
The release of New Zealand’s Defence White Paper on 8 June has confirmed what has long been suspected with the intended addition of an ice-strengthened OPV for its naval fleet.
Key points highlighted in the white paper detail the aims for the new OPV and an ice-strengthened naval tanker; better sea-to-shore capabilities with the addition of a littoral operations support vessel ‘that can operate in low to medium threat environments’; improved air surveillance with the upgrade of the P-3K Orion maritime patrol aircraft; and expanded cyber capability.
In April details emerged about the expected requirement of such a vessel,
Our news & analysis is now part of Defence Insight®
A Basic-level or higher Defence Insight subscription is now required to view this content.
More from Naval Warfare
-
![As uncrewed naval systems advance, capabilities to counter them are emerging]()
As uncrewed naval systems advance, capabilities to counter them are emerging
Research programmes and system procurement efforts to counter uncrewed surface and underwater vehicle threats are accelerating as naval drone uptake spreads.
-
![US Coast Guard to receive the first three Offshore Patrol Cutters in FY2026 and FY2027]()
US Coast Guard to receive the first three Offshore Patrol Cutters in FY2026 and FY2027
After recording a nearly six-year delay in the OPC schedule, the USCG intends to advance with the programme, reaching multiple milestones in the short term.
-
![Japan’s first warship sale opens door to future exports but comes with strings attached]()
Japan’s first warship sale opens door to future exports but comes with strings attached
Australia’s selection of an upgraded Mogami-class frigate marks Japan’s first-ever export of a major surface combatant. With an ambitious 2029 delivery target, the deal could open the door to further naval exports – but inexperience and geopolitical friction with China loom large.
