Defence Force takes stepping-stone approach to shooting down drones

The New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF) has adopted a stepping-stone approach toward buying counter-drone systems that can shoot down drones, according to RNZ.

The first step is an interim system. A July Cabinet paper approved NZDF moves to buy a foreign-made counter-drone system with limited powers. The paper assessed that system as better than local options. It also found that no domestic manufacturer currently meets the NZDF's immediate counter-drone needs.

The interim system would cope with the most likely short-term drone threat. It would not give full protection against the advanced or high-intensity drone threats seen in the wars in Ukraine and Russia and in the Middle East.

The system is intended to give the Army and the Air Force enough protection to guard Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) aircraft and personnel at air bases when they are deployed overseas. Coverage for the Navy would come later, because it is more complex.

The Cabinet paper said the system lays a critical foundation for future capability. That could include later expansion to systems that physically destroy drones with projectiles.

Separately, a $2 million deal for a Danish counter-drone system, which Australia uses, was announced last month.