New Zealand receives first Bushmaster protected vehicles
The New Zealand military has received nearly half its allotment of Bushmaster vehicles so far. (Photo: NZDF)
New Zealand has 43 Bushmaster vehicles from Australia on order, comprised of five different variants.
The New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) held a ceremony at Base Trentham near Wellington on 25 May to mark the arrival of the Bushmaster 4x4 protected mobility vehicle into the country.
To date, New Zealand has received 18 of the 43 vehicles on order. These green-coloured Kiwi vehicles are referred to as NZ5.5 configuration, while the NZDF calls it the Protected Vehicle – Medium (PV-M).
Defence Minister Andrew Little said: ‘The arrival of the Bushmaster fleet represents a significant uplift in capability and protection for defence force personnel, and a milestone in the government’s historic investment in our defence kit.’
Little
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 Land Warfare
-
![Trans-European iMUGS2 uncrewed systems programme set for three-day exercise in 2028]()
Trans-European iMUGS2 uncrewed systems programme set for three-day exercise in 2028
The next stage of the Integrated Modular Unmanned Ground System (iMUGS) programme, dubbed iMUGS2, was launched in November 2025. Three major demonstrations are planned before the end of 2028.
-
![How joint ventures are expanding Rheinmetall's munitions portfolio (video)]()
How joint ventures are expanding Rheinmetall's munitions portfolio (video)
Roman Köhne, CEO of Rheinmetall's Weapon and Ammunition Division, discusses the company's announcements at Eurosatory 2026, including developments in defence technology, precision systems, industrial partnerships and future capability programmes.
-
![Push strengthens for a second JLTV supplier]()
Push strengthens for a second JLTV supplier
A move, launched in May, could lead to a second supplier for the US Marines Corps’ Joint Light Tactical Vehicle requirement. Meanwhile, Wisconsin elected representatives have been pushing for necessary funding to be included in the FY27 budget.
