Thursday, June 19, 2025
No menu items!

New Zealand to replace navy helicopters over ‘global tensions’

Must Read

Write an article about New Zealand said a decision on replacing its Navy’s Seasprite helicopters would be made after the cabinet approved the spending. (NZ Defence Force pic)
WELLINGTON: New Zealand announced on Sunday a US$1.2 billion plan to replace its ageing navy helicopters, part of a major defence overhaul in response to rising “global tensions”.

Defence minister Judith Collins said the funding was the first tranche of the government’s renewed commitment to ramp up defence spending.

A US$5 billion plan for new spending over 10 years unveiled last month also includes investment into missiles, cyber security and drones.

It will lift New Zealand’s defence spending from one percent of GDP to more than 2%.

Collins said the new helicopters would boast improved defensive and offensive capability, along with a greater survey range.

She also announced US$570 million over four years towards defence force deployments, training and infrastructure.

“Global tensions are increasing rapidly, and defence personnel need the right equipment and conditions to do their jobs,” Collins said in a statement.

“As a maritime nation we are prioritising naval capability.

“The new helicopters will be able to go further and carry larger loads, including weapons, personnel and equipment – all of which is critical for defence to protect New Zealand and New Zealanders.”

A spokesperson for Collins said a decision about what type of aircraft will replace the existing Seasprite helicopters will be made after spending is approved by the cabinet.

New Zealand is a member of the “Five Eyes” intelligence-sharing alliance alongside the US, Britain, Canada, and Australia.

But it has been criticised over the years for taking a softer line on China – putting its trading relationship ahead of its allies’ security concerns.

in 1000-1500 words .Organize the content with appropriate headings and subheadings (h1, h2, h3, h4, h5, h6), Retain any existing tags from New Zealand navy helicoptersNew Zealand said a decision on replacing its Navy’s Seasprite helicopters would be made after the cabinet approved the spending. (NZ Defence Force pic)
WELLINGTON: New Zealand announced on Sunday a US$1.2 billion plan to replace its ageing navy helicopters, part of a major defence overhaul in response to rising “global tensions”.

Defence minister Judith Collins said the funding was the first tranche of the government’s renewed commitment to ramp up defence spending.

A US$5 billion plan for new spending over 10 years unveiled last month also includes investment into missiles, cyber security and drones.

It will lift New Zealand’s defence spending from one percent of GDP to more than 2%.

Collins said the new helicopters would boast improved defensive and offensive capability, along with a greater survey range.

She also announced US$570 million over four years towards defence force deployments, training and infrastructure.

“Global tensions are increasing rapidly, and defence personnel need the right equipment and conditions to do their jobs,” Collins said in a statement.

“As a maritime nation we are prioritising naval capability.

“The new helicopters will be able to go further and carry larger loads, including weapons, personnel and equipment – all of which is critical for defence to protect New Zealand and New Zealanders.”

A spokesperson for Collins said a decision about what type of aircraft will replace the existing Seasprite helicopters will be made after spending is approved by the cabinet.

New Zealand is a member of the “Five Eyes” intelligence-sharing alliance alongside the US, Britain, Canada, and Australia.

But it has been criticised over the years for taking a softer line on China – putting its trading relationship ahead of its allies’ security concerns.

and integrate them seamlessly into the new content without adding new tags. Include conclusion section and FAQs section at the end. do not include the title. it must return only article i dont want any extra information or introductory text with article e.g: ” Here is rewritten article:” or “Here is the rewritten content:”

Latest News

Russia, Ukraine say new POW exchange completed

Write an article about KYIV: Russia and Ukraine said Thursday that they had completed another exchange of...

More Articles Like This