The Network Enabled Army (NEA) Programme’s Reconnaissance and Surveillance (R&S) Project is delivering a suite of uncrewed aerial systems and remote ground sensor systems, along with supporting infrastructure, to the New Zealand Army.
This equipment enhances the intelligence collection, situational awareness and decision-making of soldiers and commanders in the field.
The R&S Project is also delivering training for soldiers, along with systems upgrades, through-life support and maintenance, and operational support.
This project is being delivered as part of the NEA Programme’s Tranche Two, which was approved by Cabinet in 2019.
Uncrewed Aerial Systems and Remote Ground Sensors
Uncrewed Aerial Systems (UAS) and Remote Ground Sensors (RGS) reduce risk to personnel by providing timely and accurate information for operations planning, as well as risk assessment activities.
The ability to see what is happening on the ground is an important tool for reconnaissance and surveillance operations, particularly in areas that might otherwise be inaccessible. UAS and RGS can be deployed during combat operations, humanitarian assistance and disaster relief operations, and search and rescue missions.
The UAS are not armed as their primary purpose is to extend situational awareness beyond line-of-sight.
Current status
Current status
In August 2019 the Government approved Tranche Two of the NEA Programme, which included funding for the R&S Project.
In November 2021 the Minister of Defence authorised expenditure for delivery of the equipment and systems under Tranche Two.
R&S has since delivered four systems, which are being introduced into service. They are:
- Small UAS – Quantum-Systems Inc. has delivered a number of Vector systems for 16 Field Regiment. These fixed-wing UAS have a wingspan of three metres when assembled and can fly up to 35 kilometres over three hours. They are backpack portable and can be operational within three minutes.
- Micro UAS – EPE New Zealand Limited has supplied a number of Skydio Quadcopter systems for the Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment. They can fly up to 10 kilometres for up to 35 minutes. They are backpack portable and can be operational in less than 75 seconds.
- Nano UAS – Criterion Solutions PTY has supplied a number of Nano Black Hornet UASS for the Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment. The pocket-sized systems have a single rotor airframe that folds down into a pouch and can be operational in less than 20 seconds.
- Remote Ground Sensor Systems – EPE New Zealand Limited has supplied Bertin Exensor Flexnet RGS Systems for the Royal New Zealand Infantry Regiment. They provide a variety of wireless and battery powered sensors and cameras that use seismic, acoustic and infrared sensors to detect and identify moving objects.
Other intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance projects are in definition phase, with investment decisions still to be made.