New Zealand companies say they are capable of manufacturing sophisticated military drones locally, reducing the Defence Force’s reliance on overseas suppliers.
New Zealand firms are developing autonomous aircraft, boats, ground vehicles and underwater systems for defence and surveillance. Tauranga-based SYOS Aerospace is already supplying the NZDF with autonomous vehicles designed to operate in the air, on land and at sea.
The company’s agreement with the Defence Force includes drones, technical services, training and operational support.
The products include the SA2 and SA7 unmanned aircraft, the SG400 unmanned ground vehicle and the SM300 autonomous surface vessel.
Defence Minister Judith Collins said locally developed and supported technology could reduce supply-chain risk and strengthen New Zealand’s resilience.
SYOS says its systems are designed to be scalable and affordable and have been tested in demanding operational environments.
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The company was founded in 2021 and operates from New Zealand and the United Kingdom. Its technology has reportedly been used in Ukraine, where drones have rapidly transformed surveillance, logistics and warfare.
The emerging industry extends beyond conventional flying drones. New Zealand firms are developing autonomous boats, ground vehicles, underwater systems and high-altitude aircraft capable of surveillance and environmental monitoring.
Supporters say government defence contracts could help turn those capabilities into a significant export industry while preserving technical skills and manufacturing jobs inside New Zealand.
