New Zealand To Invest In Drones, Fleet To Shield Maritime Routes

New Zealand plans to invest around NZ$1.6 billion (approximately $936 million) on drones, ship maintenance, and naval upgrades to enhance its maritime security amid rising concerns about supply routes. This announcement was made on May 23, 2026, by Defence Minister Chris Penk.

Penk indicated that the government will acquire two types of drones: one designed for long-term intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance in the southwest Pacific, and another that can operate from naval ships in the Southern Ocean and is capable of functioning in polar conditions.

He emphasized in a statement, “New Zealand’s prosperity and security depend on the sea. Recent events remind us how quickly disruptions to international shipping routes can impact economies and supply chains worldwide. The oceans are not just barriers to danger; they are a crucial national interest that must be actively protected.”

The annual budget for the government is set to be announced next week, and it will reflect a significant increase in defense spending. The plan is to raise this expenditure to about 2% of the country’s gross domestic product, up from the current 1%, in response to escalating geopolitical tensions. Earlier this month, Penk mentioned that the government is considering expanding its frigate fleet beyond the current two vessels.

Additionally, the new budget will allocate funds for the maintenance of the navy’s Anzac-class frigates and the HMNZS Canterbury, allowing these ships to remain in service until they can be replaced.

The South Pacific region is increasingly becoming a site of contention, as China's military strength continues to grow alongside its economic power. Meanwhile, the US and its allies are working to counter China's influence. Notably, in February of last year, Chinese warships conducted live-fire exercises in the Tasman Sea, which lies between Australia and New Zealand, without prior notice.