New Zealand has allocated 2 billion New Zealand dollars ($1.19 billion) to replace its aging maritime helicopters, prioritizing advanced naval capabilities.
In addition, the government said it will increase funding for the defense forces by $239 million NZ dollars ($142.7 million) annually over the next four years — totaling $957 million NZ dollars ($572 million) — to meet 2 percent of the country’s GDP by 2032 to 2033.
These moves support Wellington’s plans to reinforce the country’s defense posture, as “it is very clear that New Zealand is not immune from the increasing tensions being felt throughout the world,” stated Defense Minister Judith Collins.
The funding will also enable the armed forces to step up their contributions to global security, allowing them to be deployed to “more places, more often and for longer.”
Meanwhile, Chief of Defence Force Air Marshal Tony Davies noted that this means “annually this will include $150 million for Navy, Air Force and Army for direct operating and logistics costs, and some increases in our military personnel numbers.”
More details regarding defense will be unveiled once the government officially presents the national budget on May 22.
For Replacement
The country operates a fleet of eight multi-role SH-2G(I) Seasprite maritime helicopters, delivered in 2015, that are anticipated for replacement “to increase the defensive and offensive capability and surveillance range of New Zealand’s frigates,” said Collins.
The Seasprite is crewed by three members: a pilot, an observer specializing in warfare and mission command, and a helicopter loadmaster responsible for directing utility operations.
It operates from multiple ships, including the Te Kaha and Te Mana Anzac-class frigates, Wellington and Otago offshore patrol vessels, Aotearoa navy auxiliary ship, and Canterbury strategic sealift ship.
As it can be armed with Penguin anti-ship missiles, Mk 46 torpedoes, and a Mag 58 General Purpose Machine Gun, the Seasprite can perform a variety of roles, including anti-surface and underwater warfare, as well as maritime patrols and surveillance.
Beyond combat, the aircraft supports search and rescue, utility operations, domestic government tasks, and operator training.
