New Zealand's Defence Minister Chris Penk announced on Wednesday that the country intends to purchase long-range one-way strike drones. The government's preference is to source these drones from local suppliers to enhance national defense capabilities and stimulate domestic manufacturing.
One-way strike drones are defined as human-operated systems that deliver an explosive to a target without returning to their launch point. These systems are considered a lower-cost alternative to traditional missiles.
The initiative is part of a broader defense modernization effort. The Defence Force's operating budget is NZ$2.6 billion ($1.50 billion), with over 80% already spent within New Zealand. The government also plans to conduct research on unarmed long-range unmanned aircraft for maritime surveillance, encouraging New Zealand businesses to participate in both requests. Penk highlighted local industry expertise in advanced manufacturing, digital technologies, and unmanned systems, noting a growing number of firms developing drone and simulation technologies.
