1st Battalion, Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment, 2025. Image: NZDF.
A third battalion would create a three-battalion framework resolving the inherent fragility of the existing two-battalion structure, writes Graeme Doull.
Soldiers fly FPV drones at Burnham military camp. Image: NZDF.
Without credible drone and counter-drone capabilities, New Zealand Army’s soldiers are left unprepared for the modern battlefield, writes Graeme Doull.
MV Moana Chief sails off into the sunset. Image: Ship Spotters New Zealand / Facebook.
With the withdrawal of the MV Moana Chief, New Zealand has lost a critical container shipping capability, writes Graeme Doull.
Above: New Zealand Army Bushmaster 5.5 vehicles. Image: NZDF.
Graeme Doull proposes Defence procurement framework prioritising proven solutions and calculating quantities based on numbers needed for sustained operational capability.
Above: NZ Army training on FPV drone platforms at Burnham Military Camp, 2025. Image: NZDF.
It’s not whether drones will shape future conflict but whether NZ intends to participate in that future writes Graeme Doull.