Royal New Zealand Navy Discussions and Updates

[Catalina]

The Mavericks they replace had twice the range...

True but Mavericks entered service in the USAF in the 1970s as an AGM.

UAS and USV Swarms are the pacing maritime threat.

AGR-20F FALCO anti-air missiles entered service in 2024 to counter drones swarms. Our new naval MH-60R Seahawk can carry 28 of them, giving our naval assets a potent and battle proven anti-drone asset.

 

[Catalina]

If UK are looking at Mk41 integration on the type31does this change the calculation in terms of NZ's decision on preferred vessel? Or does the Mogami lead by a nose due to in service and trans-Tasman interoperability?
Work ongoing to scope Mk41 fit for Type 31 frigates

Trans-Tasman interoperability is a massive drawcard for choosing the Mogamis. As to is production and servicing and upgrading. Australia is building 8 of its 11 ordered Improved Mogami Class frigates in country at its Henderson shipyard. It makes military, economic, and geostrategic sense for our RNZN to likewise field the same frigates that the RAN is deploying and that can be serviced and upgraded just across the Tasman...