Wellington (Agencies): The New Zealand Ministry of Defence (MoD) has recently announced the awarding of contracts for small, micro, and nano unmanned aircraft systems (UASs) to three companies. The contracts, awarded to EPE New Zealand Limited (EPE), Quantum Systems Inc, and Criterion Solutions, aim to enhance the New Zealand Army’s capabilities.
Sarah Minson, Deputy Secretary for Capability Delivery at the MoD, stated that EPE will provide the Skydio X-series quadcopter micro UAS and the Flexnet Remote Ground System (RGS) from Bertin Exensor. Quantum Systems Inc will supply its Vector fixed-wing remotely piloted aerial system (RPAS), while Criterion Solutions will deliver the Teledyne Black Hornet nano UAS.
Ms. Minson noted that the first deliveries are expected in 2024, with the total number of units and contract values kept confidential for operational reasons. The contracts were awarded in September and October 2023, following a request for proposal (RFP) released in May 2022, specifying the procurement of fixed-wing UASs, micro RPASs, and nano UASs.