Royal New Zealand Navy Discussions and Updates

40 deg south

Well-Known Member
With the RNZN going with Sea Ceptor, the replacement of the Mk 41 VLS for something smaller and light makes sense IMO. Where the questions concerns remain is whether the size of the new VLS (and number of cells/missiles) will be realistically sufficient should the RNZN end up needing to escort vessels into or through a hostile environment, or deploy a frigate to such an area.

With the RN Mk 23's having the 4 x 8 layout, that suggests the Sea Ceptor VLS configuration comes in units of 4 cells, so a 4 x 5 layout for the RNZN should be possible, though I would be happier with the frigates also having a 4 x 8 layout.
CAMM successful qualification trials from 3-cell EXLS launcher

This report from Navy Recognition (merci, Xav!) is timely, if not terribly clear. It is reporting on two variants of a Lockheed Martin launching system for SeaCeptor. One quad-lacks SC into a Mk41 VLS, while the other is reported as a stand-alone three-cell launcher. The picture caption suggests that the three-cell launcher is quad-packed, making it really a 12-cell launcher. I'm unclear if that is really the case or not, and am interested in how those more knowledgeable than me interpret it. Given LockMart Canada is carrying out the NZ ANZAC upgrade, it is a fair bet we will end up with this system.
 

hauritz

Well-Known Member

Bluey 006

Active Member
I sometimes think NZ is completely oblivious to anything that happens outside of its EEZ. At the very least it should look at replacing its Orions with Posidons and increasing the size of its frigate fleet.
If the reports are true and there is Chinese intent for full time Military bases in the Pacific, this would certainly change the threat level to NZ. Such a base provides a foothold for operations to coerce Australia and NZ in any future crisis.

While such a threat might not prompt a major expansion of NZDF it may make it easier for it to justify equipment replacements that are suitable for "High Intensity" operations. Or at least it should, because if a military base were established in this region, it would provide a credible military threat to NZ homeland. Something which has been absent for decades.
 

KiwiRob

Well-Known Member
How about we realign, just to throw the cat amoungh the pigeons, China is going to be the major world power in a generation or so, so why continue with the US??
 

RubiconNZ

The Wanderer
How about we realign, just to throw the cat amoungh the pigeons, China is going to be the major world power in a generation or so, so why continue with the US??
That assumes a peaceful rise, and China's power to remained unchecked from a soft power perspective. A strong navy is NZ primary means of contributing to this from a military perspective, and this includes Pacific assistance missions.

A shooting war will come sooner rather than later before that generation comes through IMO.
 

Todjaeger

Potstirrer
How about we realign, just to throw the cat amoungh the pigeons, China is going to be the major world power in a generation or so, so why continue with the US??
China is already a major world power and has been considered by many to be one of the Great Powers for ~20 year, it just has not (yet) reached the status of 'super power'. In time it most likely will become a 'super power' on par with or perhaps even exceeding the US.

What the suggestion of a Kiwi 're-alignment' ignores though are a number of key factors. The first is that, even assuming China has exceeded US power in a generation's time (which in and of itself remains questionable) the US is still almost certainly going to remain a formidable power in it's own right. Once one begins adding the power of traditional US allies, many of whom are also traditionally NZ allies, then the coalition would likely exceed the power available to China.

The second factor is how well the objectives of Chinese policy will mesh (and clash) with Kiwi policy, as well as what respect, if any, China will pay to NZ and Kiwi values. Could NZ realistically expect the sort of cooperative and consulting relationship it currently has with friends and allies like the US, UK, Australia and Canada to continue if NZ aligns itself with China? Also, would it have the same or even just a similar sort of relationship with China as it currently with the US or Australia?

While I think such a situation is possible it would not be likely, and IMO would be rather improbable.
 

ngatimozart

Super Moderator
Staff member
Verified Defense Pro
Not sure if this link to the RNZN Facebook page will work, but it is a nice story of remembrance for ANZAC Day.
BZ to DOC, RNZN and Marine Nationale.

There are no flowers on a sailor’s grave
No lilies on an ocean wave
The only tribute is the seagulls sweep
And the tears upon a loved one’s cheek
Fear not for those who go down to the sea in ships
For as sunset draws near and dawn breaks afar
We remember those who have crossed the bar
 

40 deg south

Well-Known Member
LM Canada has taken possession of HMNZS Te Kaha from the RCN/RNZN team that prepared the ship and upgrade work will commence at SeaSpan's Victoria, BC yard.

New Zealand warship to be turned over to Lockheed Martin Canada for refit
Meanwhile, equipment selection continues for the new tanker.

Royal New Zealand Navy Adds FarSounder Sonar | FarSounder

A navigational sonar has been selected from a young US company.

Forward Looking Navigation Sonars | FarSounder

This is the item in question.

The April issue of Navy Today carried some info on 3D simulations of the new vessel's living quarters, but there has been no information on build progress since the ceremonial cutting of the first steel plate.
 

pussertas

Active Member
BZ to DOC, RNZN and Marine Nationale.

There are no flowers on a sailor’s grave
No lilies on an ocean wave
The only tribute is the seagulls sweep
And the tears upon a loved one’s cheek
Fear not for those who go down to the sea in ships
For as sunset draws near and dawn breaks afar
We remember those who have crossed the bar
Excellent ngatimozart
 
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