With the release of the Defence Capability Plan 2019 (in June 2019) as well as recent purchases and upgrades where do we stand.
The article goes on about the ANZAC replacement. New Zealand has only just started to look at an option for a replacement and no decision will be made for a few more years yet. The current ANZAC's are currently getting the sensors and weapons upgrades in Canada. New 3D radar, new air defence missile system and decoys, new sonar laser warning systems and various other new and upgraded systems including the new Lockheed Martin CMS330.
Yes, I agree that we need to get back to our 4 frigate squadron and a patrol squadron navy as well as out added capability in recent years of sealift and amphibious operations. The DCP19 stats that a second enhanced sealift ship will be purchased to work with HMNZS Canterbury and then Canterbury replaced by another enhanced sealift so we will be operating 2 LPD's or smaller LHD's (most likely LPD's)
The new DHV HMNZS Manawanui has greatly enhanced the dive and recovery as well the hydrographic section of the Navy.
The New Tanker HMNZS Aotearoa recently christened in South Korea will be commissioned in New Zealand mid-2020. She is the largest ship the RNZN will have ever operated to date. And will greatly enhance the Navy, as well as help our allies. She larger than our previous tanker with twice the displacement and can carry a third more fuel, water and stores than HMNZS Endeavour.
The DCP19 stats that the SeaSprites will be replaced but options won't be known till closer to the time of replacement as new tech and options come online.
The army over the last few years have had their upgrades with and added capability while not many people realise. From receiving the new MHOV trucks to the MARS-L personal weapon. Javelin anti-tank missile. The Direct Fire Support Weapon DFSW(A) H&K 40mm Grenade Machine Gun, Barrett M107A1 Anti-Materiel Rifle, Barrett MRAD Sniper Rifle. They have also slowly gained the knowledge to become an amphibious force, and with the added enhance sealift ship will greatly enhance this ability to project a small task force.
The LOV will be replaced in the next few years and the NZLAV will either be upgraded or replaced. This was a little bit of a grey area.
According to the DCP19 the Army to increase in size to 6000 personal.
The RNZAF... well yes the distant memory of our air combat unit still hurts and is a soar plumb in many Kiwi's mouths. Many will never forgive Helen Clarke for that.
However, the ageing P-3k's are being replaced by the P-8 Poseidon in 2022. The C-130H, replaced by the C-130j-30 Super Hercules around the same time. Maritime drones will also be purchased.
