Minister of Defence Judith Collins highlighted drone manufacturer Syos Aerospace as a prime example of the collaboration the new Defence Capability Plan aims to foster. Syos Aerospace is already engaged in research and development partnerships with the Defence Force, showcasing the potential of combining industry innovation with national defence needs.
Sam Vye, founder and chief executive of the Mount Maunganui-based start-up, expressed enthusiasm about the government’s strategy. He said the plan would help strengthen the local tech ecosystem, support national security, and generate valuable export revenue. Vye welcomed the government’s intent to bolster collaboration between the Ministry of Defence, New Zealand Defence Force (NZDF), industry, academia, and international allies.
Syos currently employs 100 engineers and has the capacity to produce 40 state-of-the-art uncrewed surface vehicles (USVs) each month, underscoring the company’s capability in advanced defence technologies.
Collins recently visited Ukraine and witnessed firsthand the importance of agile and collaborative product development in responding to rapidly evolving modern battlefield challenges. “We must build resilience in our supply chains, so we are less affected by events outside of our control,” she emphasized.
In April, the government published the Defence Capability Plan 2025. The Ministry of Defence noted that the current strategic environment demands greater resilience and innovation from both the NZDF and industry, while ensuring value for money.
The strategy addresses key topics such as the NZDF’s relationship with the emerging technology sector and enhanced joint industry integration with Australia. While the plan has a 15-year outlook, it also prioritizes critical investments over the next four years.
According to the plan, New Zealand faces its most challenging and dangerous strategic environment in decades. Major risks include Russia’s war against Ukraine, ongoing tensions in the Middle East, and escalating strategic competition in the Indo-Pacific region.
https://www.nzherald.co.nz/technology/defence-force-wants-more-local-firms-to-work-with-it-on-tackling-fast-changing-battlefield-challenges/OHGOOMDCANFDFHMORWVTI5D5TE/
