Wellington, 29 July 2026 – New Zealand plans to acquire long-range one-way strike drones as part of a broader defence modernisation programme, with the government expressing a preference for local suppliers. The proposed purchase signals a shift towards lower-cost autonomous systems and a more active domestic defence-industrial policy.
Defence Minister Chris Penk said the capability is intended to strengthen the country’s armed forces while supporting local manufacturers. One-way strike drones are designed to travel to a target rather than return, making them different from reusable surveillance platforms and raising distinct procurement, command and munitions-management questions.
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