HMNZS Te Kaha arrives for upgrade work

The Royal New Zealand Navy’s (RNZN) HMNZS Te Kaha Anzac-class frigate has arrived in Canada for the upgrade of its sensor and weapons systems, the New Zealand Ministry of Defence announced on 6 March.  

The upgrade focuses on enhancing the frigate’s surveillance, combat and self-defence capabilities to extend its operational life to around 2030. The frigate will receive updated equipment and systems including combat management system, radar and underwater sonar.

Work will be carried out by Lockheed Martin Canada. The upgrade of the second frigate, HMNZS Te Mana, is scheduled to take place in 2019.

Ron Mark, Minister of Defence, New Zealand, said: ‘There is a significant programme of work to upgrade or replace New Zealand’s defence equipment that aims to maintain the safety of our military personnel and the country’s ability and readiness to deploy when needed, both in this country and overseas.

‘In the time the frigates have been operational New Zealanders have come to expect their involvement in constabulary and humanitarian, to combat roles as part of a multinational coalition. These contributions are valued by our international partners.’