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New Zealand Begins Talks with Australia, UK for Frigate Overhaul
(MENAFN) New Zealand has launched formal talks with Australia and the United Kingdom over replacing its ageing frigate fleet, as Wellington moves to shore up naval defenses before a critical capability gap emerges in the mid-2030s, Defense Minister Chris Penk announced Thursday.
The Defense Ministry confirmed it has "begun discussions with the Royal Australian Navy and the United Kingdom's Royal Navy to inform the next stage for potential frigate replacement and ongoing service arrangements."
Penk underscored the economic and strategic weight of maritime security for the island nation, warning of severe consequences if action is delayed.
"These activities rely on a resilient Navy, yet most ships in the current fleet are expected to reach the end of their design life by the mid-2030s, including the Anzac-class frigates. Without replacement, this would have a significant impact on New Zealand's ability to protect its maritime interests in the Pacific and beyond," he said.
New Zealand is currently weighing two frontrunner platforms — Japan's Mogami-class frigate, already selected by Australia, and Britain's Type 31 frigate — with interoperability and operational efficiency driving the shortlist.
The country's two active combat vessels, HMNZS Te Kaha and HMNZS Te Mana, both Anzac-class frigates commissioned in the late 1990s, are central to the replacement calculus.
A cabinet decision, however, remains months away. "A final decision has not yet been made, and advice is expected to be provided to the Cabinet before the end of 2027," Penk said.
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