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New Zealand invests in drones and ships to protect maritime routes

New Zealand said on Saturday it will spend almost US$1 billion on drones, ships and related systems to strengthen its maritime security. Defence Minister Chris Penk said the package is meant to help protect shipping routes and improve surveillance across the southwest Pacific and the Southern Ocean.

The move matters because disruptions to sea lanes can quickly affect trade and supply chains far beyond New Zealand.

  • New Zealand’s navy is one of the smallest in the wider Pacific region.
  • Polar-capable vessels are built to function in ice, strong winds and very cold seas.
New Zealand invests in drones and ships to protect maritime routes | Implica