Defsec New Zealand

21/07/2026

EDGE Defence acquires New Zealand Ocean Technology

A significant development for New Zealand's maritime and defence technology sector.

EDGE Defence has acquired New Zealand Ocean Technology, strengthening its sovereign maritime capability while expanding its presence across the Australasian defence market.

The acquisition brings together expertise in autonomous maritime systems, ocean sensing and defence technology at a time when Indo-Pacific maritime security is becoming an increasingly important strategic priority.

Read the full story in Line of Defence:

https://lineofdefence.net.nz/2026/07/21/edge-defence-acquires-new-zealand-ocean-technology/

EDGE Defence Limited acquires 100% of the share capital of long-established specialist underwater technology company New Zealand Ocean Technology Limited. New Zealand Ocean Technology Limited (NZOT…

17/07/2026

LINE OF DEFENCE

Neither pillar of AUKUS is in New Zealand’s future, writes New Zealand Labour Party spokesperson for Defence, Damien O'Connor MP.

He argues that New Zealand must remain firmly committed to its nuclear-free policy while continuing to invest in defence capability—and that decisions on when and how the country commits its forces must remain sovereign.

“Working closely with partners is one thing, signing away our judgement is another.”

Read the full article on Line of Defence:
👉 https://lineofdefence.net.nz/2026/07/04/a-capable-defence-force-and-an-independent-nation/

A reformed procurement system will deliver better value, and independence, writes Labour Party Spokesperson for Defence Hon Damien O’Connor MP. Congratulations to Line of Defence on reaching …

14/07/2026

THE INTERVIEW | Dr David Galligan

In this exclusive interview with Line of Defence, Defence Science & Technology Director Dr David Galligan discusses the importance of scientific research and innovation in supporting the New Zealand Defence Force, the value of collaboration across government, industry and academia, and how Defence Science & Technology contributes to the national interest.

As technology reshapes the character of conflict and national resilience, the conversation highlights why investing in scientific capability is more important than ever.

Read the full interview:
👉 https://lineofdefence.net.nz/2026/07/05/the-interview-dr-david-galligan/

Defence Science & Technology Director Dr David Galligan talks with Nicholas Dynon on contributing to science in the national interest. The Underwater Research Laboratory was established in 1950…

11/07/2026

LINE OF DEFENCE

“All previously held assumptions are now no longer relevant.”

Dr Richard Shortt argues that the world has become less safe, less fair, and more fragmented as established alliances, institutions, rules, and strategic assumptions come under increasing pressure.

From shifting relationships with the United States and lessons from Ukraine, to energy resilience, climate change, artificial intelligence, demographic disruption, and social cohesion, he examines the scale of the challenges now confronting New Zealand and Australia.

Yet all is not lost. Shortt argues that both countries possess the talent, innovation, and capacity required to respond—but must be prepared to rethink old assumptions, diversify partnerships, strengthen resilience, and cooperate more deliberately.

Read the full article on Line of Defence:

https://lineofdefence.net.nz/2026/06/29/all-previously-held-assumptions-are-now-no-longer-relevant/

It’s a time of deteriation and uncertainty that we struggle to comprehend. But all’s not lost, writes Dr Richard Shortt. First and foremost, congratulations to Line of Defence, and all …

08/07/2026

LINE OF DEFENCE

“We must be more deliberate in how we secure both our national and our economic security,” writes Defence Minister Chris Penk.

Defence capability and economic resilience are increasingly inseparable—and the partnerships built with industry will be central to both.

He argues that meeting today’s challenges will require coordinated effort across government, industry, and international partners, with the Defence Capability Plan providing direction and investment translating that into action.

Read the full exclusive article on Line of Defence:
👉 https://lineofdefence.net.nz/2026/07/04/securing-new-zealands-future-defence-industry-and-resilience/

Partnering with industry and building domestic capability critical to New Zealand’s defence, writes Minister of Defence Hon Chris Penk MP. As we move swiftly through this year, it is both clear and…

07/07/2026

Line of Defence — A New Platform for Defence and Security Discourse

We’ve launched a dedicated website for Line of Defence:
👉 https://lineofdefence.net.nz/

This marks an important step in the ongoing evolution of Line of Defence—from a traditional sector publication to a more focused platform for informed analysis, commentary, and debate on defence, national security, and strategic affairs.

As New Zealand navigates an increasingly complex security environment, there is a growing need for credible, independent forums that bring together perspectives from policy, military, industry, and academia.

The new site is designed to support that role—providing a dedicated space for long-form analysis, expert commentary, and contributions that engage seriously with the issues shaping New Zealand’s defence and security outlook.

We’re actively seeking contributions from those with relevant expertise and insight.

Explore the site, and be part of the conversation.

07/07/2026

LINE OF DEFENCE

Moves towards closer New Zealand–Australia defence alignment are nothing new—but without stronger supporting structures, they risk falling short.

Dr Jim Rolfe argues that while the drivers are clear—growing global instability, increased major power interest in our region, and the enduring role of armed force—the foundations of the relationship remain weak.

What’s needed, he suggests, is a return to the original vision set out in the 1944 Canberra Pact.

Read the full article:
👉 https://lineofdefence.net.nz/2026/07/07/new-zealand-australia-defence-relations-renewing-the-original-intent/

Closer NZ-Australia defence alignment is a recurring theme, but it needs stronger supporting structures to work, writes Dr Jim Rolfe. Two statements bookend the New Zealand-Australia defence relati…

11/06/2024

Lieutenant Colonel Laura Cranston wins Women in Security Awards Aotearoa’s “Contributing to defence and international security” category for her work on United Nations Security Council Resolution on Women, Peace and Security.

LTCOL Cranston has been announced by the organisers of Women in Security Awards Aotearoa 2023-24 as the winner of the ‘Contributing to defence and national security’ category in her role as Director, New Zealand Defence Force Women, Peace and Security.

This category recognises a professional who has through their commitment, capability, professionalism, advocacy, innovation, and/or leadership made a significant contribution to the defence of New Zealand and its national interests or, more broadly, to regional or international security.

Read the full story and winner citation here:

Lieutenant Colonel Laura Cranston wins Women in Security Awards Aotearoa's "Contributing to defence and international security" category.

15/05/2024

Gallagher Security has recruited Emma Gibson to the role of Sales Manager for the Lower North Island region, bringing with her over 20 years’ experience in sales and account management, and three years in the security industry. Read the full story here:

Gallagher Security has recruited Emma Gibson to Sales Manager for the Lower North Island region, bringing with her over 20 years’ experience.

14/05/2024

Air Vice-Marshal Tony Davies MNZM is the new Chief of Defence Force, Defence Minister Judith Collins has announced today.

AVM Davies has been appointed for three years from 6 June, when he will also be promoted to Air Marshal.

Read the full story here:

Air Vice-Marshal Tony Davies MNZM is the new Chief of Defence Force, Defence Minister Judith Collins has announced today.