Humor and Quirks Humor and Quirks
Mon, May 5, 2025
Sun, May 4, 2025

New Zealand to spend NZ$2 billion on new maritime helicopters


Published on 2025-05-04 19:11:39 -
  Print publication without navigation

  • WELLINGTON (Reuters) -The New Zealand government said on Sunday it had set aside NZ$2 billion ($1.19 billion) in its upcoming budget to replace the Defence Force's aging maritime helicopters, as global tensions increase. Along with money for the helicopters, the government said it would increase baseline spending by NZ$239 million for the Defence Force each year over the next four years. "It is very clear that Zealand is not immune from the increasing tensions being felt throughout the world," Zealand Minister of Defence Judith Collins said in a statement.

New Zealand has announced a NZ$2 billion investment to enhance its defense capabilities, focusing on improving maritime surveillance and protecting critical infrastructure, in response to increasing strategic competition in the Pacific region. The funding, to be allocated over the next five years, will support the replacement of aging naval frigates and patrol vessels, and the acquisition of new military equipment such as drones and helicopters. This move comes amid concerns about China's growing influence in the Pacific, with New Zealand aiming to strengthen its military presence and contribute to regional stability.

Read the Full Reuters Article at:
[ https://www.yahoo.com/news/zealand-spend-nz-2-billion-223011957.html ]