A Mogami-class frigate. Image: Japanese Ministry of Defense.
Three frigates is the only sensible benchmark, and a comparative assessment suggests Mogami over the Type 31, writes Fred Wilson.
US Marine Corps soldiers operate UAVs. Image: US Marine Corps/Michael Virtue.
Militaries must prepare leaders for environments where humans not the only source of cognition, write Josh Wineera and Derek Tunui.
The Royal New Zealand Navy's Uncrewed Surface Vessels ‘Tahi’ and ‘Rua’ in 2025. Image: NZDF.
Autonomous surface vessels can enable decision advantage in sea control missions, but there are challenges to adoption, writes Andy Watts.
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.
NZ Army Armoured Troop Leaders Course. Image: NZDF.
Every technological revolution has promised commanders better decisions through better information. Yet fog of war remains constant, writes Josh Wineera.
Upgraded Mogami-class Frigate (4,800 ton type). Image: Mitsubishi Heavy Industries.
The Babcock Type 31 and upgraded Mogami are answers to different questions, writes Andy Watts. It depends on the mission.
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.
Above: Defence Minister Chris Penk visits members of RNZAF No. 40 Squadron at RAAF Base Richmond. Image: LinkedIn/Chris Penk.
Closer NZ-Australia defence alignment is a recurring theme, but it needs stronger supporting structures to work, writes Dr Jim Rolfe.
Above: Japanese Mogami class frigate.
New Zealand should choose the frigate option that maximises utility, adaptability and availability over next three decades, writes Jim Gilmour.
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.