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Three companies have been selected to deliver uncrewed aircraft systems (UAS) and remote ground sensor systems for the New Zealand Army.
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It is hoped that the recent acquisition will improve operations planning and risk assessment, reducing risk to New Zealand military personnel across humanitarian assistance, disaster relief, combat and search and rescue operations.
The program was awarded as part of the Networked Enabled Army Programme.
As part of the announcement, EPE New Zealand has been selected to supply a number of quadcopter micro UAS as well as remote ground sensor systems for the 2/1 Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment.
The micro UAS system is backpack portable and deployable in 75 seconds, while the remote ground sensor systems combine seismic, acoustic and infrared sensors to detect and identify moving objects, information unveiled by the NZ Ministry of Defence confirmed.
The EPE system is delivered as part of a partnership with US-based UAS manufacturer Skydio.
US-based Quantum-Systems was also selected to deliver a number of backpack portable small UAS. The systems, with a three-metre wingspan, will be employed by 16 Field Regiment and can be operational within three minutes.
Australia’s Criterion Solutions was selected to deliver the single-rotor nano UAS for the 2/1 Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment. The UAS can be operational in less than 20 seconds.
The systems are scheduled to enter use in 2024. The systems will not be armed.
“The systems will improve the ability of the New Zealand Army to undertake reconnaissance and surveillance operations in areas that may otherwise be inaccessible, such as cyclone-damaged regions or combat zones,” Sarah Minson, Ministry of Defence Deputy Secretary Capability Delivery, said.
Andy Cross, general manager of EPE New Zealand, explained that the micro UAS will support on-field decision making for New Zealand soldiers.
“EPE and Skydio share a common aspiration to contribute to a safer world and equip soldiers with technology that not only provides strategic advantage but also enhances decision making while safeguarding them from threats. As a team, we have the capacity and ability to deliver and support the capability from design through to disposal.”
