New Zealand to invest almost US$1 billion in drones, ships to protect maritime security

New Zealand intends to spend about NZ$1.6 billion (US$936 million) on drones, ship maintenance and naval upgrades to bolster the island nation’s maritime security at a time of increasing concern about supply routes.Defence Minister Chris Penk said on Saturday that the government would invest in two types of drones: one for the southwest Pacific to provide long-duration intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, and the other a polar-capable vehicle that could operate from naval vessels in the Southern Ocean.“New Zealand’s prosperity and security depend on the sea,” Penk said in a statement.Recent events have served as a reminder of how quickly disruptions to international shipping routes can affect economies and supply chains“Recent events have served as a reminder of how quickly disruptions to international shipping routes can affect economies and supply chains across the globe. The oceans are not a barrier to danger, but a vital national interest that must be actively secured.”