24 October 2006
As detailed in the latest Long Term Development Plan, the New Zealand Defence Force is considering linking to a New Zealand satellite project to provide strategic communications around the world.
Presently the NZDF’s satellite capability is organised using commercial or coalition partner satellites, neither of which can guarantee secure, uninterrupted capability.
Dedicated NZDF transponders would mean the defence force could guarantee secure communications to its deployed forces, improve interoperability with coalition partners including Australia and the Pacific, while supporting whole-of-government emergency management and enforcement operations.
Planned new joint command and control systems and the combined information flow from NZDF P-3K aircraft, RNZN ships and New Zealand Army components will require significant increase in high band-width capability. This would be available from the capability provided by the New Zealand satellite.
Ground stations for communications would be provided through a Joint Communications Modernisation project and an Army Tactical Trunk Communications project proposed for next year.
The satellite is planned for launch in 2010 and would have a life of 15 years.
A cost-benefit study is currently under way to provide guidance for a decision before March of next year.
The satellite and communications projects are contained in the Long Term Development Plan released by Defence Minister Phil Goff at the New Zealand Defence Industry Conference in Wellington this month. Download the Full text of the latest Defence Long Term Development Plan.
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