NZDF General discussion thread

recce.k1

Well-Known Member
I've heard on other defence forums rumours Nzdf could be fast tracking some of these big ticket items like the Sea guardian in significant numbers, or even that the SOPV hasn't been cancelled and we'll likely end up with two military speced ones off damen based on the Canadian Arctic patrol ones, to suppliment the frigate replacements? Is there any substance behind this happening or just someone's wish list?
Without any context provided it's a bit hard to be definitive except to say these two capabilities were already signaled in the DCP25 so at face value it's going to happen, one day, anyway, maybe, so its nothing new really.

But what we do know is that the next DCP iteration is being worked on now for release next year (I did read something about that recently but sorry can't put my hands on it for now). I wouldn't be surprised if the "Long-range remotely piloted aircraft" project is something that is prioritised (eg Sea Guardian or something else), but that's just a guess so we will have to wait and see.

The SOPV as Nighthawk mentions was never cancelled (it was simply a deferral from the 2020-2023 GOTD like many other projects that the then Finance Minister refused to release funding for like potentially leasing Wildcats or possibly obtaining surplus MRH90's, let alone advancing various other DCP19 projects). But a Damen sourced AOPS doesn't make sense because they don't appear to design such vessels - typically such vessels are of Norwegian or Danish design origin - unless it is something new (concept) that hasn't been released but why would the RNZN then take a risk on an unproven design? I'd be looking instead to the in service Canadian AOPS (which is a Vard design) or the proposed Danish future Arctic Patrol Vessel (Arktiske Patruljeskibe) which is being built to replace their Thetis-class Arctic OPV's, as potential options (don't quote me but apparently the RNZN showed some interest in the Thetis class for Project Projector in the early stages).
 

kiwipatriot69

Active Member
Without any context provided it's a bit hard to be definitive except to say these two capabilities were already signaled in the DCP25 so at face value it's going to happen, one day, anyway, maybe, so its nothing new really.

But what we do know is that the next DCP iteration is being worked on now for release next year (I did read something about that recently but sorry can't put my hands on it for now). I wouldn't be surprised if the "Long-range remotely piloted aircraft" project is something that is prioritised (eg Sea Guardian or something else), but that's just a guess so we will have to wait and see.

The SOPV as Nighthawk mentions was never cancelled (it was simply a deferral from the 2020-2023 GOTD like many other projects that the then Finance Minister refused to release funding for like potentially leasing Wildcats or possibly obtaining surplus MRH90's, let alone advancing various other DCP19 projects). But a Damen sourced AOPS doesn't make sense because they don't appear to design such vessels - typically such vessels are of Norwegian or Danish design origin - unless it is something new (concept) that hasn't been released but why would the RNZN then take a risk on an unproven design? I'd be looking instead to the in service Canadian AOPS (which is a Vard design) or the proposed Danish future Arctic Patrol Vessel (Arktiske Patruljeskibe) which is being built to replace their Thetis-class Arctic OPV's, as potential options (don't quote me but apparently the RNZN showed some interest in the Thetis class for Project Projector in the early stages).

Ok. What about moves to sell off parts of Devonport Naval base to free up cash, is there moves on that? Could that be earmarked for defence projects or has treasury got their hands on it ? What about the savings the parts for the NH 90 will bring us? Potentially thats Billions of savings extending them for decades to come.

The use of Northport and Marsden point biofuels could also serve as not only a means of revenue to fund Nzdf , but a means to fuel our military vehicles ,planes and ships, and drydock and repair for allies like Austrailia too. And yet another valuable strategic asset!
 

recce.k1

Well-Known Member
Ok. What about moves to sell off parts of Devonport Naval base to free up cash, is there moves on that? Could that be earmarked for defence projects or has treasury got their hands on it ?
KP - just checking, is this something being stated on the other forum you were reading? If so unclear what they mean because a recent infrastructure review which DCP25 reinforces is that the future of Devonport has been settled (it's staying) and that certainty means investment will be made to upgrade facilities. Some searching should bring up further info, here's some examples.


 

Xthenaki

Active Member
KP - just checking, is this something being stated on the other forum you were reading? If so unclear what they mean because a recent infrastructure review which DCP25 reinforces is that the future of Devonport has been settled (it's staying) and that certainty means investment will be made to upgrade facilities. Some searching should bring up further info, here's some examples.


Very informative. It gives a positive insight as to the delays in purchasing new ships until adequate facilities and upgrades to the existing DNB are made and the importance of Marsden Pt for the future. The cost of "buying time" by maintaining the ANZAC frigates is VERY expensive and only justified if relevent shore facilities are upgraded in time to facilitate the new frigates arrival date. That is a big ask. No one wants a "log jam" caused by construction work in progress. The upgrades to both DNB and The fleet will transform our Navy.
 
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