Minister of Defence Judith Collins highlighted drone manufacturer Syos Aerospace as a prime example of the collaboration the new Defence Capability Plan seeks to foster. Syos Aerospace is already engaged in research and development work with the New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF), demonstrating effective partnership between industry and defence.
Sam Vye, founder and chief executive of the Mount Maunganui-based start-up, expressed enthusiasm about the Government’s strategy. He believes it will help the local tech ecosystem support national security while also generating export revenue. Vye welcomed the Government’s intention to strengthen collaboration between the Ministry of Defence, NZDF, industry, academia, and international allies.
Syos Aerospace currently employs 100 engineers and has the capacity to produce 40 state-of-the-art uncrewed surface vehicles (USVs) per month, showcasing its advanced manufacturing capabilities.
Collins recently visited Ukraine and observed firsthand the critical importance of agile and collaborative product development to respond quickly to the fast-changing realities of modern battlefields. She emphasized the need to build resilience in supply chains to reduce vulnerability to external events beyond New Zealand’s control.
In April, the Government published the Defence Capability Plan 2025. The Ministry of Defence stated that the current strategic environment requires both the NZDF and industry to become more resilient and innovative while delivering value for money.
The Defence Capability Plan was designed with a 15-year horizon but also prioritizes critical investments within the next four years. It focuses on several key issues, including the NZDF’s relationship with the emerging technology sector and enhancing joint industry integration with Australia.
The plan acknowledges that New Zealand now faces its most challenging and dangerous strategic environment in decades. Major risks identified include Russia’s war against Ukraine, ongoing tensions in the Middle East, and intensifying strategic competition in the Indo-Pacific region.
https://www.nzherald.co.nz/technology/defence-force-wants-more-local-firms-to-work-with-it-on-tackling-fast-changing-battlefield-challenges/OHGOOMDCANFDFHMORWVTI5D5TE/
