Royal New Zealand Navy outlines modernisation goals
The replacement of second-hand SH-2G(I) Seasprite helicopters, acquired after Australia gave up on the platform, will begin within a few years. (Photo: author)
The Royal New Zealand Navy (RNZN) has a crunch time coming up as it looks to refresh its fleet before 2040, and prepares to begin operating Sikorsky MH-60R helicopters, although it is at the back of a long ordering queue. A key part of any solution is looking at what neighbouring Australia is buying.
While the Royal New Zealand Air Force (RNZAF) recently received a shot in the arm with selections of Airbus A321XLR transport aircraft and Lockheed Martin-Sikorsky MH-60R helicopters, the Royal New Zealand Navy (RNZN) remains in dire need of investment.
The MH-60Rs will be crewed by the RNZN but will be maintained by the air force. They are set to enhance the limited reach of the RNZN’s surface fleet; but the country must join a queue.
Sikorsky explained to Shephard that more than 60 MH-60Rs are currently on order or in production for India, Greece, South Korea, Australia, Spain and Norway. It will
Already have an account? Log in
Want to keep reading this article?
More from Naval Warfare
-
![HMS Agamemnon: details of the dive and what the Astute-class signifies for the UK Royal Navy]()
HMS Agamemnon: details of the dive and what the Astute-class signifies for the UK Royal Navy
As HMS Agamemnon moves closer towards joining the UK’s in-service submarine fleet, how does the sixth Astute-class fit into the Royal Navy’s defence strategy?
-
![Khabarovsk submarine launch reflects Russia’s nuclear modernisation progress]()
Khabarovsk submarine launch reflects Russia’s nuclear modernisation progress
The nuclear-powered vessel, which could carry the Poseidon autonomous torpedo – dubbed the “doomsday missile” – marks another step forward in Russia’s maritime defence push.
-
![US Coast Guard seeks national and foreign suppliers for light and medium icebreakers]()
US Coast Guard seeks national and foreign suppliers for light and medium icebreakers
Contracts for new light and medium cutters are expected to be awarded in mid-2026.
-
![Anduril Australia shows first Ghost Shark for RAN at factory opening]()
Anduril Australia shows first Ghost Shark for RAN at factory opening
The new underwater vehicle has been described as an “important deterrent” thanks to its ability to operate undetected for extended periods of time.
