The Royal New Zealand Air Force’s (RNZAF) first C-130J-30 Super Hercules has rolled off Lockheed Martin’s production line in Georgia, USA, now sporting its official livery, complete with the RNZAF Kiwi emblem and the 40th Squadron’s marine compass. This marks the beginning of New Zealand’s air fleet renewal, in line with the $1.5 billion agreement […]
Samoa; Coast Guard commissions Australian made Guardian class patrol boat
According to information published by Austal on November 22, 2023, the company has successfully delivered its 18th Guardian-class Patrol Boat to the Australian Department of Defence. The handover of the vessel, named Nafanua III, occurred during a formal ceremony at HMAS Stirling in Western Australia on November 22, 2023. In a gesture of international cooperation, […]
Australia; RAAF orders 4 additional MQ-4C Triton MPA UAV
The Australian Department of Defense posted a tweet on November 8 to announce it will enhance the Air Force fleet with four Northrop Grumman MQ-4C Triton UAS, plus associated support and mission systems in the framework of the Air Force’s Maritime Patrol and Response program. Manufactured by Northrop Grumman, the Triton Unmanned Aircraft System […]
New Zealand; Navy commissions 3 new Littoral combat boats
These crafts are built by Australian-based Sentinel Boats and are set to be deployed by HMNZS Matataua, part of the RNZN’s Littoral Warfare Force, aiming to aid in delivering divers, troops, and mine counter measures during military operations around coastal waters. Commander Trevor Leslie, the commanding officer of HMNZS Matataua, indicated that these LMCs are […]
Papua New -guinea; Australia delivers 4th. Guardian patrol boat
According to information published by the Australian DoD on October 4, 2023, Papua New Guinea celebrated the acquisition of its fourth Guardian-class Patrol Boat, HMPNGS Gilbert Toropo, during a ceremony held at HMAS Stirling, south of Perth, Western Australia. This patrol boat, a product of Austal’s design and manufacturing in Western Australia, enhances Papua New […]
Micronesia; Maritime Police receives its 2nd Guardian class patrol boat
According to information published by the Australian DoD on August 28, 2023, the Federated States of Micronesia welcomed their second Guardian-class Patrol Boat at a grand ceremony held in Perth. A product of Austal’s craftsmanship in Australia, this Guardian-class boat is set to pick up from where the Pacific-class Patrol Boat FSS Palikir left off. […]
Micronesia; Coast guard receives Australian Guardian PB
According to a PR published by Austal Limited (Austal) on August 11, 2023, the company handed over its 16th Guardian-class Patrol Boat FSS David W. Panuelo to the Australian Defence Department, which was then presented to the Federated States of Micronesia in a ceremony at the Austal shipyard in Henderson, Western Australia. This marks the […]
Australia; Korean Hanwha wins Land-400 p.3 contract with K21 Redback
The Commonwealth government has formally revealed the long awaited winner of the multi-billion dollar LAND 400 Phase 3 program which will transform the Army’s combined arms combat capabilities. Defence Connect can reveal that Hanwha Defense Australia has been successful in their bid to provide the Australian Army with a fleet of 129 infantry fighting vehicles […]
Australia; RAAF orders 20 C-130J Hercules transporters
On June 23, 2023, the Australian Government announced the acquisition of 20 C-130J Hercules aircraft for $9.8 billion to bolster the capabilities of the Royal Australian Air Force (RAAF). The decision aims to modernize and enhance the Air Force’s air transport capabilities, ensuring it is well-equipped to meet future challenges. The newly purchased C-130J Hercules […]
New Zealand; Army commissions first Bushmaster 5.5 APCs
The Bushmaster 5.5 armored vehicle will bring a powerful and versatile asset within the New Zealand Army. Developed by Thales Australia, this armored vehicle offers a range of features and benefits that will make it a critical component in New Zealand’s military operations. The Bushmaster 5.5 is renowned for its exceptional protection and mobility. It […]