Create a free starter account, or log in.

Get access to four free articles per month, as well as our Decisive Edge Newsletters and Daily News Bulletin.

Email Address

Password

Forgot your password? Reset by clicking here

Create a Password

[[ req.met ? '✓' : '•' ]] [[ req.text ]]

Re-enter Password

Passwords do not match

First Name

Last Name

Country

Confirm your account

Please enter the four-digit pin below that has been emailed to you.

Didn't receive the pin yet?

This pin expires in 20 minutes.

[[ error ]]

By creating an account, you agree to the Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

Stay informed with Shephard's award-winning journalism. Unlock unlimited access and in-depth analysis with a corporate or individual subscription.

Explore your options here

New UAVs for New Zealand delayed

25th February 2022 - 02:41 GMT | by Tim Fish in Auckland

RSS

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