New UAVs for New Zealand delayed
The Puma UAV appears to have been selected for the NZDF's LW UAS project, but an official order is yet to be lodged due to COVID-19. (AeroVironment)
The wider impact of COVID-19 on the NZDF becomes more apparent as the introduction of new equipment is pushed back
The planned procurement of a new remotely piloted air system for the Royal New Zealand Navy (RNZN) has been put on hold.
The RNZN’s Littoral Warfare Unit, named HMNZS Matataua, is set to get new Pumas from AeroVironment under the Littoral Warfare Uncrewed Aerial System (LW UAS) project. However, a New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) spokesperson told Shephard that the LW UAS project 'has been delayed due to the organisational impact of COVID-19.'
He added this is 'predominantly around Operation Protect duties,' where about 10% of NZDF personnel have been allocated tasks to support the Managed Isolation and Quarantine system
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Naval Warfare
-
![US Navy seeks industry partners to address pressing research needs]()
US Navy seeks industry partners to address pressing research needs
The Office of Naval Research will host an Industry Engagement Day in August aiming at building new partnerships and advancing its science and technology initiatives in multiple areas.
-
![Raytheon awarded $1.2 billion in contracts for AN/SPY-6(V) radars for the US Navy]()
Raytheon awarded $1.2 billion in contracts for AN/SPY-6(V) radars for the US Navy
Under the most recent contract, the US Navy will receive four additional AN/SPY-6(V) radars, increasing the number of radars under contract to 42. The radars are considered key for expanding the navy’s capability for air defence.
-
![Royal Canadian Navy’s final Harry DeWolf-class vessel to be delivered this summer]()
Royal Canadian Navy’s final Harry DeWolf-class vessel to be delivered this summer
The sixth Canada’s Arctic and Offshore Patrol Ship is currently at the final stages of construction within Irving Shipbuilding.
